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Governor Newsom’s Proposed $297B Budget Protects Critical Funding Commitments to Higher Education & California’s Future

Published
January 10th, 2023
Author
Rick Angel 250x250
Rick Angel
Senior Communications Manager

Statement from Campaign for College Opportunity: “Governor Newsom’s budget shows that even in challenging fiscal times, investing in higher education is essential to California’s future success.”

Los Angeles, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom proposed a $40.3 billion investment for higher education in his 2023-24 budget proposal, maintaining critical funding commitments that increase college access for more California students while advancing equity in pursuit of a debt-free college education. As the state faces a $22.5 billion shortfall, Governor Newsom’s decision to prioritize education spending demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the value of a higher education.

Building on the historic multi-year compacts that Governor Newsom established with California’s higher education institutions, especially the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems, Governor Newsom’s budget proposes a 5% increase in base funding to both systems to continue enrolling more Californians who are pursuing an undergraduate degree at their institutions. The proposed budget also honors the California Community College (CCC) system’s multi-year roadmap and proposes an additional, one-time investment of $200 million to enroll and retain more community college students, especially in light of recent COVID-19-related enrollment declines across the system.

“Governor Newsom’s budget proposal upholds an unprecedented level of commitment to higher education,” said Jessie Ryan, Executive Vice President with The Campaign for College Opportunity. “This administration understands that the value of a college degree is more critical than ever, and is demonstrating its commitment to education funding in good times and bad. The Governor knows that past investments in higher education have been critical to California’s position as the 4th largest economy in the world and that future investments in college access for more Californians supports a vibrant economy and democracy.”

Despite significant shortfalls in state funding, Governor Newsom’s proposed budget represents a promising start to the budget negotiation process for California’s students. “We look forward to working with the Governor and Legislature in support of this budget proposal as well as to ensure future funding is provided to deliver Cal Grant awards to meet the needs of our lowest income and most vulnerable students,” Ryan added.

Key Higher Education Highlights 

Honoring Commitments to College Access and Student Success 

Strengthening Transfer 

Keeping the College Dream Affordable