Governor’s Budget Spells Out State Problem
The 2012-13 Governors’ proposed budget identifies a $10.3 billion state budget problem. Gov. Jerry Brown proposes to resolve the 18-month shortfall with $4.2 billion of spending reductions, $4.7 billion of new revenues and $1.4 billion derived from various other steps. The linchpin of this budget proposal, however, is a proposed November ballot initiative. If passed, the initiative would increase income tax rates on higher income taxpayers for five years, starting with the 2012 tax year, and would increase the state sales tax rate by 0.5 percent. The increased sales tax rate would be in effect for four years, from January 1, 2013 through the end of calendar year 2016. More »

CSU Board of Trustees Adopts Policy to Cap Presidential Compensation
The California State University Board of Trustees recently adopted a new policy limiting the amount of compensation paid by state general funds for newly-hired CSU presidents to no more than 10 percent above the previous incumbent's base pay. The new policy was adopted as part of the recommendations made by the Board's Special Committee on Presidential Selection and Compensation, which has been reviewing the system's selection process and executive compensation structure since last summer. More »

Legislature Applauds CSU’s Work on Textbook Affordability
With textbooks adding to the cost of a college education, CSU as well as students, parents and legislators are looking for ways to reduce these costs. Last week, the Joint Legislative Audit Committee (JLAC) held an informational hearing and asked the State Auditor and CSU alumnus, Elaine Howle, to provide a summary and update of on the report “Affordability of College Textbooks.” More »

CSU Presents 2012 Sponsored Bill Package
The California State University (CSU) Board of Trustees adopted the 2012 sponsored bill package during its meeting on January 24. The four proposals include two items that are carried over from last year’s legislative session and two new bills which will be introduced later this month. The bills were recommended by Chancellor Reed after campus and Chancellor’s Office staff input. More »