What’s Next: The May Revise is here!
May 13, 2022
Happy Friday, friend — today’s a big day! Not only do you get another *exclusive* What’s Next email in your inbox, but you’ll hear from us about Governor Newsom’s revised state budget proposal which was just released this morning. Keep scrolling to see the NGP response to the May Revise, an update from the Cal Grant Reform Coalition, and much more!
We’re keeping an eye on news out of the Capitol so you don’t have to.
★ NGP Responds to the May Revise: This morning, Governor Newsom released his revision to his January state budget proposal, the so-called the ‘May Revise’. We applaud Governor Newsom’s revisions as they are a critical step toward progress. Now, California legislators have about a month to work with Gov. Newsom to put their imprint on the May Revise as they must pass the final budget package by June 15th. Here are our 3 key takeaways:
- The investments outlined today by Governor Newsom are the critical components necessary to combat the long-existing social, racial, and economic inequities that continue to plague our most vulnerable communities.
- With a historic budget surplus, California has an extraordinary opportunity to make significant progress on the issues of climate change, food insecurity, economic prosperity, affordable housing, higher education, healthcare and equity across the board.
- Our leaders must allocate every dollar with the urgency that the challenges of today, and of our near future, demand.
★ Climate 100 Letter: If you’ve been reading our recent emails, you’ll know that our Climate 100 campaign is advocating for significant budget increases in the state’s fight against climate change. Ahead of the May Revise, we wrote to Governor Newsom, Pro Tem Atkins, and Speaker Rendon — you can read our letter here.
★ Cal Grant Reform Update: The state’s higher education financial aid system, Cal Grant, needs to be reformed to meet the needs of today’s students. That’s why NGP supports Assembly Bill 1746 (Medina/McCarty) and the inclusion of the Cal Grant Equity Framework in our state budget. More than 100 leaders from across California called on Governor Newsom and the Legislature to modernize the Cal Grant program — read more about the coalition’s work towards equitable financial aid here.
★ Closing the Digital Divide: Internet usage has gone up drastically over the last few years, and unfortunately so have prices for broadband. The California Alliance for Digital Equity (CADE) fights to close the digital divide and advance digital equity, including device acquisition, internet access, tech workforce training, and digital literacy. Beginning this month, we will be convening advocates, experts, and policymakers to discuss California’s digital future. We’ll keep you updated on our efforts to achieve equitable, affordable access to the connected world.
Climate change is jeopardizing our safety, our health, and our finances — we need bold action that delivers for all Californians.
SIGN UP TO SUPPORT CA CLIMATE BUDGET
★ Did You Know? Federal student loan payments are currently set to resume in September after a two-year pandemic-induced hiatus. We know student loan debt is an issue that continues to burden millions of Californians, so we’ve put together a resource page with helpful content — check it out here.
★ Member Spotlight: NGP extends a warm welcome to Assemblymember Matt Haney, the newest member of the California State Assembly! He now represents the 17th Assembly district, which includes the eastern half of San Francisco. Take a minute to welcome him into his new role!
★ What’s Next: Have you received your vote-by-mail ballot yet? Registered California voters began receiving their California Primary ballots in the mail ahead of Election Day, Tuesday, June 7th. And if you haven’t registered yet — don’t worry, there’s still time! You have until Monday, May 23. Mark these key dates so you’re ready to vote!
NextGen Policy fights for progressive policy change to address environmental, social, racial, and economic inequities through justice-centered legislative advocacy, grassroots partnerships, and democratic civic engagement. Join Us!
Thank you,
NextGen Policy