Opposition to the California Live Within Our Means Act

AS-2696-05/FGA - May 5-6, 2005

RESOLVED: That the Academic Senate of the California State University (CSU) oppose passage of the "California Live Within Our Means Act," an initiative constitutional amendment, which may appear on the ballot of a special election in November; and be it further

RESOLVED: That, should this appear on the November 2005 ballot, the Academic Senate CSU request the Chancellor and the Board of Trustees to issue a statement of opposition to this proposed initiative; and be it further

RESOLVED: That, should this appear on the November 2005 ballot, the Academic Senate CSU work with other groups to oppose passage of this amendment; and be it further

RESOLVED: That copies of this resolution be sent to the Chancellor, all members of the Board of Trustees, the governor, the leaders of the Legislature, the California Faculty Association, and the California State Student Association.

RATIONALE: The California Live Within Our Means Act has been called by the Los Angeles Times "a really bad idea." It would make changes to the California Constitution related to a new state spending limit, Proposition 98 funding, and the budget process. These could endanger the ability of the California State University to achieve the budget priorities endorsed by the Academic Senate of the California State University and effectively serve our students.