NRDC Endorses Proposition 30 to Prevent Cuts to Critical Environmental Resources and Education

Ballot Measure Would Provide Critical Funding for Schools and Get California’s Fiscal House Back in Order

San Francisco, CA (October 19, 2012) – The Natural Resources Defense Council today announced its support for Proposition 30, The Schools and Local Public Safety Protection Act. Championed by Governor Jerry Brown, Prop 30 will generate critical funds to preserve vital California natural resources and environmental programs, and prevent billions of dollars in additional cuts to our schools and steep tuition hikes for college students and their families.

Prop 30 proposes a temporary increase in the personal income tax rates for individuals jointly earning more than $500,000 per year, and restores the state sales tax rate to 2012 levels for four more years. By balancing increased revenues with ongoing cuts, Prop 30 would help stabilize the State Budget.  Prop 30 prevents the “trigger cuts” in this year’s budget – cuts that would hit environmental agencies including the State Departments of Fish and Game, Water Resources and Parks, along with K-12 schools and the State university and community college system. 

Following are statements from NRDC in support of Proposition 30:

“A healthy California depends on an educated citizenry and careful management of natural resources like our coast and ocean,” said Ann Notthoff, California Advocacy Director at NRDC. “Prop 30 helps get our fiscal house back in order and avoids devastating cuts to schools and environmental programs including the California Department of Fish and Game wardens who patrol our public lands and fight poaching and habitat destruction.”

“Our children are our future. California’s K-12 schools, community colleges, and universities need resources to create the home grown workforce needed for California’s burgeoning clean energy economy,” said Victoria Rome, Deputy Director for California Advocacy at NRDC. “Prop 30 brings sorely needed resources to schools and ensures that vital environmental programs can continue to protect California’s public health and natural resources.” 

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