Opponents of Proposition 1D say the measure hurts children.
Proponents say that without Prop 1D, children will suffer.
Opponents of Proposition 1D say the measure hurts children. Proponents say that without Prop 1D, children will suffer.
Proposition 1D temporarily redirects a significant portion of money set aside to expand early child development – or First 5 – programs to achieve budgetary savings, according to the state’s legislative analyst. The $268 million worth of funds redirected annually would pay for other state health and human services programs for children, so that the state doesn’t have to. The measure would generate state savings of up to $608 million next fiscal year with annual savings of $268 million in subsequent years until 2014.
“The only thing worse than taking money from services for children is doing so while selling it as a benefit to the very people who stand to lose the most,” said Erin O’Brien, president and chief executive officer of Community Solutions, a South County nonprofit. “Their deceptive language leads us to believe that, by supporting them, we are supporting those in our community who most need our help. Do not be led down this wrong path.”
Opponents like O’Brien said the proposition takes away voter-approved funds from vital children’s services, provides little in terms of a budget solution and inflicts long-term, “devastating” consequences that will cost California taxpayers more money than the expected savings.
“If passed, Prop 1D will take $1.6 billion from critical local health and education programs for young children and turn it over to the politicians and bureaucrats in Sacramento,” said Doris Fredericks, executive director of Choices for Children, an organization that provides children’s support services. “Proposition 1D will rob our community, here in South County, of funding for programs that provide children’s health insurance, immunizations, preschool and support for obesity prevention.”
Proposition proponents, including the California Teachers Association, said the measure is a common sense solution to California’s budget crisis and that the First 5 funds still go to serve California’s children. Additionally, supporters said that by allowing a temporary redirection of funds now to help close the budget gap, further cuts can be avoided in the future.
