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Advocacy & Legislation

August 26, 2010

RESPONSE TO RECENT QUESTIONS REGARDING THE PLF "MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT"

The Public Library Foundation, also known as the "PLF" became law in 1982 with the passage of SB 358 by then-Senator Jim Nielsen, who is now currently a member of the State Assembly. The legislation, which was sponsored by CLA, established a requirement that the state provide assistance to local libraries on the basis of a 10 percent state/ 90 percent local match. The funding for the PLF is distributed on a per capita basis, meaning that every library benefits equally from even the slightest increase in the program, and conversely each public library's state share is reduced proportionally in years where reductions occur at the hands of the legislature or Governor. The PLF has a so-called "maintenance of effort" (MOE) requirement, meaning that a city or county or special district library, which reduces its total local appropriation below its previous year level, is ineligible for any PLF funds. The exception to this MOE rule is the ability of libraries to request a limited waiver from the State Library for a particular fiscal year.

Back in 2008, at the direction of the CLA Executive Board and Legislative Committee, we first lobbied to secure a special ten percent reduction to the MOE for the fiscal year 2008-09. The logic behind the 10 percent reduction was that if the PLF was facing a ten percent reduction (as it was that particular Budget year) it would be beneficial to all libraries to similarly be able to reduce their maintenance of effort proportionally. Some libraries argued that a complete suspension of the MOE would be preferable, but others argued that the MOE requirement is critical as it asks city councils and county boards of supervisors to make a continued financial commitment to public libraries, and without it, they may not have the incentive to continue that local share of funding.

Senate Budget Committee staff, the Legislative Analyst's Office, the Department of Finance, and the State Library were instrumental in helping us to draft the final language that would not base the MOE reduction on a specified percentage, but rather would reference the year-to-year change in the PLF Budget appropriation. As Budget staff said to us at that time, "That way, if the Governor vetoes an amount of the PLF beyond what the legislature has recommended, the percent by which the item is reduced will then become the target under which locals won't have money cut."

For this Budget year, the legislature has been agreeable to include the MOE language in the annual Budget bill again at our request. While we are still a long way away from the final resolution of the Budget this year, language offering public libraries assistance with the MOE during these tough fiscal times, is contained in both the Assembly and Senate Budget bills. We anticipate that the following language will be the final language signed into law:

"Notwithstanding subdivision (d) of Section 18025 of the Education Code or any other provision of law, in the 2010-11 fiscal year, any city, county, district, or city and county that reduces local revenues required to meet the maintenance of effort requirement for its public library for the 2010-11 fiscal year shall continue to receive state funds appropriated under this item for the 2010-11 fiscal year only, provided that the amount of the local reduction to that public library for the 2010-11 fiscal year is no more than a specified percentage of the 2009-10 fiscal year local revenues required to meet the maintenance of effort requirement for that public library, as certified by the fiscal officer of the public library and transmitted to the State Librarian pursuant to Section 18025 of the Education Code. The specified percentage in this provision shall be the percentage reduction for this item from the Budget Act of 2007 (Chs. 171 and 172, Stats. 2007) to this act."

We recognize that this is a complex issue. Your business officers or the State Library are always also an excellent resource on this subject matter. We will keep you apprised of when this language is ultimately signed into law.

Posted by claadmin at 10:52 AM

July 7, 2010

Snapshot: One Day in the Life of California Libraries

FOLSOM, CA - On October 4, 2010, libraries throughout the state of California will unite to participate in "Snapshot: One Day in the Life of California Libraries", an event that will illustrate to elected officials how libraries provide invaluable services to California and its citizens. This statewide initiative has been developed by the California Library Association (CLA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit association that focuses on professional development and library advocacy for all California libraries, staff, and supporters.

On October 4, 2010, California's libraries - including academic, public, school, special and more - will compile statistics, customer comments, photographs, and other data chronicling a typical library day. The results collected throughout the state will be compiled by CLA and developed into tools that will promote the importance of libraries throughout the state. California's Snapshot Day is part of a national initiative presented by the American Library Association.

"Every kind of library provides unique and irreplaceable services; we know this because in communities across the state library usage is rising, and demand is growing for books and other resources, knowledgeable staff assistance and computer/Internet access - despite budget cuts, reduced hours and programs." states Kim Bui-Burton, CLA President and Director of the Monterey Public Library. "We believe this California libraries 'snapshot' will show the essential library services and life-changing experiences that California's communities depend on, especially during these times of severe economic distress."

On behalf of the CLA members and all California libraries, Ms. Bui- Burton invites "all California community members of any age to visit their library on this historic day and be a part of this first ever 'snapshot' of California libraries. Help us demonstrate to decision makers across the state how Californians patrons, customers and future leaders rely on California libraries for critical library services, resources and programs - now, more than ever."

# # #

About the California Library Association

Established in 1895, the California Library Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit association that provides leadership for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services, librarianship, and the library community. CLA helps its 3,000 members excel in a fast-changing job market and is a resource for learning about new ideas and technology. Furthermore, CLA is a leading advocate on all statewide library issues and actively works to influence legislation affecting libraries and librarians. Governed by an elected Board of Directors, CLA is headquartered in Folsom, California. More information may be obtained at www.cla-net.org

Official Press Release

Posted by claadmin at 1:07 PM

July 2, 2010

News From The Capitol

Budget Stalls - Bills Continue to Move

The State Constitution requires the legislature to pass a Budget annually by June 15th and send it to the Governor for his action by July 1. Once again, the legislature has failed to meet this deadline. For the last two weeks the powerful Budget Conference Committee, the body tasked with reconciling the differences between the Governor's proposed Budget, the Assembly version of the Budget, and the Senate version, have been on an indefinite hold, under "call of the Chair." While Democrat leaders recently met with the Governor, these high level talks do not appear to be occurring with any regularity. Yesterday, the Governor issued an Executive Order, requiring the State Controller to pay state workers minimum wage until the Budget conflict is resolved. This action angered Democrat leaders and potentially threatened the tone of Budget negotiations further.

Meanwhile, legislative policy committees met throughout this last week to consider hundreds of bills, in order to meet the legislative policy committee deadline of July 2nd. The July 2nd date is notable for another reason - it marks the start of the "summer recess" for the legislature. In past years, if the Budget has been passed and signed by this date, the legislature will embark on a one month recess and then return in August to complete the business of the house. At the close of session yesterday, Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg stated, "Summer recess is cancelled until we complete our Budget work. The work is ongoing and intensive. We ask members to stay close....be within 24 hours of the Capitol. Leaders are meeting regularly and the work here in the Senate will continue." Despite the fact that the Senator "cancelled summer recess," he has nonetheless released his members to return to their districts to either conduct work or more likely, to sneak in a quick vacation.

Over the last 24 hours, rumors of a potential Budget deal framework have surfaced. One well placed source tells us that cuts to programs would be severe, the Vehicle License Fee increase would be extended, a tax on oil production imposed and a delay in corporate tax breaks implemented, and serious reforms in the areas of pensions, budget, and regulatory reform. As always, we will continue to keep you posted as details emerge.

Senator Padilla Pushes Broadband Efforts

Senator Alex Padilla, Chair of the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee, continues to push his two measures to promote and fund Broadband access to all Californians. His SB 1040, supported by CLA, was heard last week in the Assembly Appropriations Committee where it was placed on the committee's "suspense file," because of administrative costs to the Public Utilities Commission associated with new duties. The "suspense file" is a mechanism used by the two fiscal committees to prioritize bills having state General Fund impacts. Bills referred to the "suspense file" will be acted upon by the committee in August and they will either be passed at that time, or "held in committee" and rendered dead for the year. If ultimately signed into law, SB 1040 would authorize the PUC to impose an additional phone surcharge and deposit these funds in the following new accounts within the California Advanced Services Fund:

1) Broadband Infrastructure Account ($100 million).
2) Rural and Urban Regional Broadband Consortia Grant Account ($10 million), for broadband activities other than capital costs.
3) Broadband Infrastructure Revolving Loan Account ($15 million), for broadband facilities not funded by a grant from the Broadband Infrastructure Account.

Meanwhile, on June 7th, Senator Padilla amended his SB 1462 , which had previously related to a different subject, to create in state government the California Broadband Council. The purpose of the council would be, "for the purpose of promoting broadband deployment and adoption throughout the state for benefit of all Californians."

The membership of the California Broadband Council would include: The State Chief Information Officer, The President of the PUC, The Secretary of California Emergency Management, The Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Director of General Services, the Secretary of Business, Transportation, and Housing, the President of the California Emerging Technology Fund, and a member from the State Assembly and State Senate.

The focus of the Council, according to the author, is to pull together "disparate parts of state government," and "ensure the continuation of strong state leadership on broadband, as California prepares for transition to a new Governor." CLA has taken a "support if amended position" on SB 1462, to encourage Senator Padilla to give the State Librarian a seat on the Council. Subsequently, your CLA lobbyists, CLA Executive Director Holly Macriss, and State Librarian Stacey Aldrich, met with Jacqueline Kinney, Consultant to Senator Padilla's Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee, to discuss the principle role of libraries, their work on bridging the digital divide, and addressing the so-called "last mile" of broadband services. While the consultant said we had made a good case for including the State Librarian on the Council, they have been inundated with requests from various stakeholder groups and are reluctant to open up the bill to new appointees. The Senator did agree to take the following language: "The Council shall provide opportunities for stakeholder groups to provide input about broadband deployment and adoption at its regular public meetings, and may provide additional opportunities through public hearings, roundtables, advisory committees, or other means, as determined by the Council." This bill too, was held on the Assembly Appropriations "suspense file."

Submitted by:

Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro
CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 2:11 PM

June 25, 2010

A Tribute to David Sabsay

California lost a great library leader when retired Sonoma County Librarian David Sabsay passed away on March 20, 2010. Thank you to CLA President Kim Bui-Burton for her notice and words of appreciation for David posted on the CLA Blog.

I appreciate CLA putting this information about David on the website, since I would not have learned of his death otherwise. It has triggered lots of memories of a modest, somewhat shy and retiring, highly intelligent man who was deeply committed to doing everything he could to improve California's public libraries. He made a powerful and lasting impact on California libraries through a number of significant professional accomplishments. I would like to share my memories of David with current CLA members. Although I never worked for David, I consider him one of my greatest mentors.

I first got to know David well during the years 1979 and 1980 when he served as Chair of CLA's Government Relations Committee (GRC) and I served as a member. (The current Legislative Committee was then known as the GRC.) Proposition 13 had just passed in 1978 and California's public libraries were hurting. David set out to find a funding solution by proposing the legislation that eventually became the law we know today as the Public Library Fund or PLF, which has provided millions of dollars to California public libraries since 1983-84.

David's approach to getting this legislation passed was masterful and always strategic. As a Past President of CLA (1971), David understood Association politics. At the 1978 annual conference's Membership Meeting, he introduced a simple statement of principles that would guide the development of the proposed legislation. It passed overwhelmingly and, with this membership endorsement, David set out to actually write the legislation. He brought drafts to GRC meetings for months as the language evolved to meet some minor concerns and issues that arose from several CLA members and also issues that arose in the various legislative committees over the course of the next two years.

First, however, he recruited Mike Dillon and persuaded the Association to hire Mike as its legislative advocate or lobbyist. Obviously, this was a brilliant choice! All CLA members know how well Mike has served the Association for over 30 years now.

Next, he and Mike recruited then Senator Jim Nielsen, a respected conservative Republican, to be the bill's author. This was another excellent choice, as Nielsen was willing to work closely with David and Mike in developing the actual language of the bill, provided strong support at every step of the legislative process, and demonstrated that support for libraries was a bi-partisan issue.

During the two years that David served as Chair of the GRC, he gave countless hours of hard work to secure support for the bill. Fortunately, he had the strong support of his enlightened Sonoma County Library Board and a highly competent staff, because he was working for our bill so many hours each week that he had very little time for Sonoma County.

Working closely with Mike, Senator Nielsen, CLA leadership, GRC members, and the CLA membership at large, who became heavily involved in grass-roots lobbying for the bill, David was tireless and determined, as well as an excellent speaker before legislative committees when needed. As a GRC member, I watched David's work with admiration and respect, and not a little awe. This was before CLA had Legislative Day, Day in the District, or even a formal legislative network, so the task of rallying grass-roots support for the legislation was more difficult than it would have been later in CLA's history. As we began to achieve passage of the bill through the various committees, CLA members and library supporters throughout the state responded magnificently, however, and the legislative network was born.

The bill passed through two committees in each house and finally the Legislature, and was sent to then Governor Jerry Brown for signature at the end of the session. Unfortunately, the Governor vetoed the bill on the same day that he signed a bill giving tax breaks to the horse racing industry! This got lots of negative publicity for the Governor statewide. Don't hold it against Jerry Brown today, however, because he signed the same bill two years later when we got it through the Legislature in 1982 and on his desk again.

After the 1979-1980 legislative session and the Governor's veto, David was disheartened and exhausted. He felt he could not give the effort that would be needed for another legislative session and that he needed to give more attention to Sonoma County. I agreed to serve as GRC Chair for the next two years, 1981-1982, and although it was a lot of hard work, I could do it because I had David's example to follow. There were additional challenges during this next legislative session, but the work was easier than it had been during David's term because the bill's language was set, the adjustments needed to meet the concerns of CLA members and legislative committees having been worked out during David's term, legislators were familiar with the bill, and CLA members and library supporters around the state were fired up and willing to lobby hard for the bill. We all did, and it passed and was signed into law.

David was a man of big ideas, some of which came to fruition, such as the idea of a county-wide joint powers authority library in Sonoma County, and others of which were only partially fulfilled, such as the PLF. He never "thought small," though.

In Sonoma County he created the first, and for many years the only, public library organized as a joint powers authority (JPA) under California law. I only gradually came to understand what a brilliant organizational and financial structure this is as compared to the standard county library organization under state law, which itself has many admirable features. More than 20 years after Sonoma County Library became a JPA, this method of library organization was adopted by several other counties and their respective cities in the mid-1990's as they faced serious crises in finance and governance caused mainly by the state take-away of local property taxes. David led the way and showed how it could be done.

PLF was another of David's big ideas and the PLF we know today is very different from David's concept. Today PLF is a simple per-capita aid distribution, a change that became necessary due to later state actions and later voter-approved initiatives, which together severely constrained local government's ability to increase local library funding.

David's idea was embodied in the law as originally passed. It was for a Public Library Foundation Program, identifying a basic, specific level of per capita support needed for all public libraries, large enough to provide a reasonably good level of service and adjusted annually for inflation, with 10% provided by the state if 90% were provided by the library's local governing authority. Local governments could provide more funding, but could not get more from the state than 10% of the annually defined Foundation Program. If local governments provided less, their state share was reduced proportionately. By setting the annual per capita amount of the Foundation Program, the state was effectively advising local governments of the amount they needed to spend to provide a good, basic quality of library service.

David developed this plan to provide an incentive for local governments to increase their library funding, so they could capture a larger share of state funding. If this plan had ever been fully implemented, what a wonderful method of improving funding for public library services it would have been! It was strongly supported by the library community at the time and still seems brilliant to me, but no longer workable or fair in a greatly changed fiscal environment for local government.

Unfortunately, the state never provided full funding for PLF or anything close to full funding, so this promise was never fulfilled. For years, "full funding for PLF" was CLA's highest legislative priority. Full funding would have revolutionized public library funding and services in this state. Even as it is today, the PLF still provides a significant additional resource for local public library budgets. David's role in establishing PLF was essential and critical.

One last thought about David's legacy..one of the many lessons I learned from David was that the responsibility of a public library director does not end with "how I run my library good," to use a familiar phrase from libraryland. A public library director is also responsible for understanding and attempting to influence, change if necessary, state laws that impact the organization, governance, and funding of public libraries. Today this means all the complex laws impacting local government funding in California. And, one of the best ways we can do this is through our professional organization, CLA.

Thank you, David Sabsay, 1971 CLA President and CLA leader extraordinaire throughout your career!

Submitted to California Libraries by:

Linda M. Wood
1985 CLA President
Retired Alameda County Librarian

Posted by claadmin at 12:20 PM

May 26, 2010

News from the Capitol

COUNTY LAW LIBRARIES AVOID BUDGET REDUCTION

Last week CLA joined efforts with the Council of California County Law Librarians (CCCLL) to defeat a Budget-related proposal by the Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) to redirect all County Law Library filing fee revenues above the 2007-08 levels to the Judicial branch. Several key Democratic lawmakers, concerned with dwindling revenues impacting the courts, were considering a number of revenue shifts through the Budget process, including the proposal impacting the law libraries, to address the shortfall. Of particular concern to legislators has been the closing of the courts one day per month resulting in huge backlogs as well as staff lay-offs. When the proposal surfaced, CCCLL Lobbyist Michael Corbett, and the law librarians sprung into action and urged key legislators to abandon the proposal which would have resulted in a $3.7 million reduction in law library budgets. Subsequently CLA took an official "oppose" position on the proposal and then also assisted in the efforts to defeat the Budget shift. On Monday, word came that the Senate Democratic leadership was dropping the proposal "for now," and on Tuesday the Assembly followed suit. CLA will continue to monitor the Budget process in the event that the proposal resurfaces during the Budget negotiations.

SENATE CONFIRMS STACEY ALDRICH AS STATE LIBRARIAN

Acting State Librarian, Stacey Aldrich, was recently confirmed as State Librarian by the full Senate. However, prior to the Senate action, Ms. Aldrich had to be approved by the Senate Rules Committee during a formal hearing process on April 7th. The powerful Rules Committee is a five-member body consisting of the Senate President pro Tempore, two Republican members and two Democrat members. The Rules Committee typically vets a candidate that has been appointed to a state post by the Governor, and they allow for interested parties to weigh in with support or opposition to the nomination.

At the April 7th hearing, Ms. Aldrich said that she was honored to have been appointed by the Governor. She noted that her current focus within the State Library was that of broadband connectivity and upgrading the current mode of resource sharing statewide. Ms. Aldrich delighted committee members by reading her remarks from an Apple iPad, prompting Senate President pro Tem Steinberg to inquire, "What does the library look like in 2010? With technology, are we going to see free-standing libraries with columns of books or virtual libraries?" Ms. Aldrich provided a detailed description of how libraries are transforming themselves to adapt to the needs of the new technology and to the expanding needs of patrons. She also discussed the importance of protecting the adult literacy programs and special programs such as the Braille and Talking Book program.

Testifying in support of the nomination was CLA President Kim Bui-Burton who heralded Ms. Aldrich's work as a "futurist" and praised her for her ability to provide "unbiased, accurate information" to the state and to the library community. She noted that Ms. Aldrich, as State Librarian, represents California on the federal level and has also been presenting the needs of California to the prestigious Gates Foundation with good success. President Bui-Burton called Stacey, a "strong advocate for our state." Jeff Frost, lobbyist for the California School Library Association also spoke in support of the nomination.

In closing, Senator Steinberg complimented Ms. Aldrich and added, "We're all in support here. Thank you for your service." The Rules Committee voted 5-0 to recommend her confirmation to the full Senate. Thus, when her appointment came before the full Senate for confirmation on May 13, it was approved on a vote of 29-0, with no debate. Congratulations to Stacey Aldrich!

BUDGET COMMITTEES CONSIDER GOVERNOR'S "MAY REVISE"

As required by law, on May 14th the Governor released his revisions to the January Budget, taking into account new expenditure and revenue estimates. Similar to January, the Governor's May Budget package proposes $19.1 billion in "solutions," including a $1.2 billion reserve. The term "solutions," in addition to revenues, includes borrowing, transfers, etc. Unlike his January Budget, which assumed $7 billion in Federal aid, the revised Budget lowers that amount to $3.4 billion, which the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO), in their report on the Governor's May Revision, deems to be "a more reasonable level."

This week the Budget Committees have been rejecting some of the most severe cuts proposed by the Governor, including elimination of subsidized child care, elimination of Cal-WORKs, reductions to In Home Support Services (IHSS), and reductions in county mental health funds. The LAO report notes that "even if the legislature approved all of these painful cuts, and realized the savings assumed by their passage, a stubborn multi-billion dollar operating deficit would persist in the years to come." Meanwhile, to offset the above cuts proposed by the Governor, the Assembly and Senate Democratic Leadership have each proposed alternative solutions, which will be considered in the coming days as the Budget Committees attempt to wrap up their deliberations. A six member Budget Conference Committee will be appointed after the Memorial Day weekend in order to reconcile the differences between the two houses.

SENATE AND ASSEMBLY DEMOCRATS PROPOSE ALTERNATIVE TAX PLANS

On Monday Senate Democrats proposed $4.9 billion in tax increases, as an alternative to the deep cuts the Governor is proposing in Health and Human Services and other programs. The significant increases include suspending corporate tax breaks scheduled to begin January 1, 2011, (generating a little more than $2 billion), extending a 0.25% income tax surcharge that would generate $1 billion, raising the Vehicle License Fee from 1.15% to 1.5% starting July 1st, for $1.2 billion, and adjusting the alcohol tax by inflation, to generate about $210 million. Additionally, the plan also proposes to extend key tax hikes approved as part of the February 2009 Budget package.

Yesterday afternoon, Assembly Speaker John Perez unveiled an Assembly proposal which differs significantly from the Senate proposal. Titled, "The California Jobs Budget," the package emphasizes the creation of jobs and outlines the loss of jobs resulting from the Governor's cuts, including teacher layoffs, termination of local government jobs, etc. The $10.1 billion needed to fund the package would be generated by raising $900 million from a new oil-severance tax, borrowing $500 million from the Disability Insurance Fund, and generating $8.7 billion by "securitizing" (similar to the Proposition 1A securitization), funds from the California Beverage Recycling Fund, with the loan from Wall Street being paid back over the next twenty years.

If the package were ultimately approved, which is unlikely given the immediate negative responses by the Republicans and the Governor's Office, funds would be used to repay local governments for past mandates, $3.9 billion would be for repayment to local school districts, $900 million to restore cuts to higher education, $1.9 billion to maintain child care programs for Cal-WORKs and Proposition 98, and $1.4 billion for "getting Californian's back to work," through increased job training. Lastly, the package also delays the start of the new business tax breaks scheduled to take effect in 2010-11, which, "avoids over $2 billion in cuts to education and other critical services."

Submitted by:

Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro
CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 4:47 PM

May 14, 2010

News from the Capitol

GOVERNOR UNVEILS DEEP, DIFFICULT CUTS IN "MAY REVISION" BUDGET: LIBRARY PROGRAMS SPARED

This afternoon Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger held a press conference, to present his final Budget proposal of his term in office. Lobbyists and lawmakers have been dreading the unveiling of the Governor's so-called "May Revision" or "May Revise" of the 2010-11 Budget, particularly since the economy continues to struggle and April tax receipts were less than impressive. We were pleased, thus, that despite a $19 billion Budget shortfall, the Governor has made a deliberate decision to spare important public library programs, such as the Public Library Foundation (PLF), Transaction Based Reimbursement (TBR) and the Library Literacy and English Acquisition Program, as well as the State Library Administration, from any proposed cuts. This decision to protect these library programs is consistent with the Governor's action in January, when he similarly chose not to make any cuts in these areas.

When the Governor appeared before the media and a select group of legislators this afternoon, he repeatedly chastised the legislature for not addressing several big reform areas of government, including the Budget process, the tax system, and pension system. He implored the legislature to "fix our broken system," and said that failure to do so means that "now I have no choice but to call for the elimination of certain programs." He also expressed frustration with several court decisions in the health and corrections areas that further impact the Budget deficit problem, stating, "Because [the courts] prevented us from using a scalpel, we will now have to use an axe." To that end, the Governor's Budget cuts fall predominantly on the health and human services portion of the Budget, with the Governor proposing a complete elimination of the CalWORKS program by October 1, 2010 for a savings of $1.1 billion. The Governor also proposes significant cuts in the areas of In Home Support Services ($637 million), the elimination of child care programs with the exception of pre-school and after school care, and a 60% reduction in local mental health services. Said the Governor somberly, â€œI see, very clearly, the faces behind those numbers."

The state Assembly and Senate have been holding Budget Subcommittee hearings since March, discussing and acting on the Governor's January Budget. The subcommittees will convene again next week to begin deliberating these new recommendations coming out of the Governor's May Revision. Democrat leaders weighed in promptly with their strong opposition to the deep cuts offered by the Governor, particularly in the area of health and human services. Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg and Senate Budget Chair Denise Ducheny appeared before the media shortly after the Governor's press release concluded. Chairwoman Ducheny stated that she felt the tone of the May Revise has "set the Budget deliberation process back several weeks." Senate President pro Tem Steinberg said he would fight to save "essential services for kids, the elderly and the vulnerable. We will not pass a Budget that eliminates CalWORKS, period..No way."

Because the Assembly and Senate Republicans have taken the option of taxes off the table for 2010, this leaves the legislature with very few Budget solutions other than cuts and more borrowing. Thus, we are preparing for another long, hot summer of Budget deliberations, despite the Governor stating, "There is no reason the legislature can't have a Budget by June 15th that I can sign by June 30th." Stay tuned.

Submitted by:

Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro
CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:16 PM

March 26, 2010

Join Us on April 16th for Day in the District

A Statewide Library Advocacy Event

Please plan to join the California Library Association (CLA), the California School Library Association (CSLA), and your fellow library advocates for Day in the District on Friday, April 16, 2010.

The focus of Day in the District is to foster dialogue between local libraries and the legislators who represent the communities served by those libraries. To assist with these meetings, the CLA Legislative Committee will provide a list of talking points. Furthermore, CLA Lobbyists, Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, have prepared "Tips for Lobbying Your Legislator During Difficult Budget Years." Both documents will be available at http://www.cla-net.org/legislation/day_in_the_district.php.

Currently, our network of Legislative Contacts are working hard to set up appointments with elected officials.

To register for an appointment with your legislator, go to the Library
Legislative Day in the District Online Database at: http://www.legiday.net.

At the login screen enter:

Account Name: member
Password: member

After entering the login information above, a new screen will appear. On this page, click on "legiday" to enter the database. This will take you to the 2010 Day in the District homepage.

Once at the homepage, click on "Legislators" to see a listing of all legislators in the database. Legislators are listed in district order by default. By clicking the headers of the columns you can sort the list by individual field. Also note there are other navigation tools in the header of list of legislators, e.g. alphabetical shortcuts and links to individual legislative houses.

If you are a member of CLA, CSLA, or CALTAC the database will automatically retrieve the contact information on record for you. If the database brings up a list of names and you are not on that list you may register your name and email address by following the instructions at the top of the screen.

IMPORTANT #1: Always click the on screen buttons to post information.
Simply hitting the Return or Enter key on your keyboard may not work.

IMPORTANT #2: It can take some time for the Legislative Contact to set up the appointment. If the database does not yet list an appointment date and time with your Legislator, please keep checking. Please do not attempt to make an appointment yourself - your Legislative Contact is already in touch with the legislatorâ€™s office and we don't want to cause confusion or duplicate efforts.

IMPORTANT #3: Address changes for appointments will appear in the notes field. Please check this a day or two before your scheduled appointment, as these may change to accommodate the legislator's schedule.

IMPORTANT #4: Always click the | Log Out | link when you are finished.
If you leave the screen idle for more than 5 minutes you will automatically be logged out. The database can accommodate only 100 simultaneous users at one time.

Some other things to keep in mind:

The emphasis of Day in the District is primarily on California State Assembly and Senate representatives rather than federal elected officials.
You may wish to bring brief handout materials, such as a brochure or newsletter, that highlight the services provided by your library and can be left behind for future reference by the legislator or staff.
Trustees, Commissioners, Board members, Friends, parents, students or other supporters are encouraged to attend. Please ensure that the names and affiliations of all representatives of your library are registered on the appointment website so that the contact person can let the legislator know who will be attending the meeting.
Many legislators are busy working in Sacramento on budget preparation. Legislative Contacts may have made appointments with Legislative Aides if the Legislator is not available. Many legislators rely on their staff for input and advice, and these meetings can be equally productive. These Aides are often very knowledgeable about library issues and are interested in hearing your concerns that they will forward to your legislator.

Day in the District is an opportunity to highlight the services that are important to residents in your particular district. Many legislators are not aware of the broad range of services we provide and the number of lives we touch each and every day. Participation in this year's meetings is extremely critical to keep our State funding intact as budget negotiations continue. As the economic downturn creates additional use of libraries and stresses our resources, it is more important than ever to help our Legislators understand about how this impacts their communities and local residents.

On behalf of the California library community, we hope you will be able to participate in this year's Day in the District meetings. You have a powerful story to tell, and this is your chance to tell it!

Posted by claadmin at 3:39 PM

March 25, 2010

News from the Capitol

BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEES BEGIN MEETING AT CAPITOL - CALL TO ACTION

On March 18th, the newly elected Speaker of the California State Assembly, John Perez, announced his leadership team and his committee assignments for the various standing committees and Budget subcommittees in the Assembly.

Over the next two and a half months, the Budget subcommittees will be conducting hearings in order to analyze the Budget that the Governor proposed in January. These subcommittee hearings feature testimony from the Legislative Analyst's Office, the Department of Finance, affected state agencies and departments, and lobbyists for various associations or groups. In mid May, these same subcommittees are provided a supplemental Budget report from Governor Schwarzenegger, also known as the "May Revision." This Budget document will highlight his adjusted proposals based on the April tax receipts and general cash condition of the State, and it will give the subcommittees a clearer idea of the amount of money (or lack thereof) available to solve the $20 billion budget deficit.

In April, many of you will be participating in CLA's Day In The District, a statewide grassroots advocacy event where library supporters and library staff visit with legislators in their district offices. There are several key members of the legislature who sit on the Budget subcommittees or who oversee the Budget committees, and they will be charged with some of the initial decisions relative to the Public Library Foundation (PLF), Transaction Based Reimbursement (TBR), and the English Acquisition and Literacy Program. Educating these individuals on library funding issues is particularly important.

Senate Budget Subcommittee Number 1 on Education Finance - date of hearing on the State Library Issues: Thursday, April 22

Chair, Senator Carol Liu
Senator Bob Huff
Senator Rod Wright

Assembly Budget Subcommittee Number 2 on Education Finance - date of hearing on the State Library Issues: TBA

Chair, Assemblywoman Wilmer Amina Carter
Assemblyman Bill Berryhill
Assemblywoman Julia Brownley
Assemblyman Wesley Chesbro
Assemblywoman Jean Fuller
Assemblyman Sandre Swanson

Senate Budget Committee Key Members

Chair, Senator Denise Ducheny
Vice Chair, Senator Bob Dutton

Assembly Budget Committee Key Members

Chair, Assemblyman Bob Blumenfield
Vice Chair, Assemblyman Jim Nielsen - author of the PLF law (1982)

The Budget subcommittees have the option of accepting any or all of the Governor's proposals, rejecting his proposals, or suggesting their own alternatives. Their recommendations are then forwarded to the powerful Budget Conference Committee at the end of May, and this Conference Committee will then take over the task of reconciling the differences between the two houses' proposals. We will forward the names of the conferees when they are available in late May or early June, but we anticipate that the four individuals listed above (Ducheny, Dutton, Blumenfield, and Nielsen) will be officially appointed to the Conference Committee. If you are meeting with any of these legislators, please talk to them about the importance of preserving library funding, particularly in this "down economy."

SENATOR LOIS WOLK INTRODUCES "NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK" RESOLUTION

The California Library Association is sponsoring SCR 78, which will declare April 11 through April 17, 2010 as "National Library Week." Senator Lois Wolk, one of the legislature's most active library supporters, is the author of SCR 78, which, among other things, "commends California's public libraries, librarians, and all library workers for enriching the lives of California residents." Public libraries throughout the state are encouraged to celebrate "National Library Week" in April, and are further encouraged to remind their legislators of the countless, valuable services provided to patrons annually. Additionally, this year marks the 160th year anniversary of the California State Library, and SCR 78 acknowledges their role in "providing technical assistance and consultation to California's public libraries, and preserving and hosting an abundance of California's priceless historical items."

YOLO COUNTY LIBRARIAN IS NAMED "WOMAN OF THE YEAR" BY SENATOR WOLK

Each year the state Senate and Assembly honor the work of outstanding California women via their "Woman Of The Year" event. We are pleased to report that this week Senator Lois Wolk (D-Davis) honored Yolo County Librarian, Patty Wong, as her "Member of the Year" for Senate District #5. The recognition of Ms. Wong was held in a private ceremony Tuesday at the Senator's District Office in Vacaville. Honored alongside Patty Wong was PJ Davis, the Executive Director of the Community Action Partnership of Solano. Said Senator Wolk in a press release issued Tuesday in regard to Wong and Davis, "These are strong, smart women who have profoundly affected this community. I am proud to honor their ongoing service and dedication."

Congratulations to Patty Wong for this important honor. Here are some additional excerpts from the Senator's press release:

"Wong, Wolk's Yolo County honoree, is a 26-year veteran in the field of library services who has dedicated her life to improving library access.

'Libraries are the heart of a community. They are a community institution.' Wong said. 'I've made it my priority to build bridges and work with community leaders to ensure that everyone in our diverse community, especially the underserved have the opportunity to enjoy all that our libraries have to offer.'

Wong has been instrumental in overseeing the construction and opening of two new libraries in Winters and West Sacramento - as well as major renovations at the Stephens Davis Branch Library - since being appointed Yolo County Librarian and Chief Archivist in 2008. Under her direction, close to $500,000 in grants have successfully enhanced library operations. In addition to her work with the county, Wong works as a part-time faculty member at both the School of Library and Information Science at San Jose State University and at the iSchool at Drexel University in Sacramento - and consults libraries on techniques for fundraising and working with local communities to improve access.

Wong also works in a variety of capacities with library groups including the California Library Association, Chinese American Librarians Association, and REFORMA - an association that promotes library services to Spanish-speaking Americans. She served as president of the Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association in 1999, and is currently providing frontline advocacy for the value of librarians and library staff as co-chair of the American Library Association Presidential Initiative Planning Committee, under President Camila Alire."

Submitted by:

Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro
CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 7:47 AM

March 9, 2010

Critical Action Alert: Public & School Libraries Need Our Help

Please call your congressperson's Washington office today and ask him/her to sign onto two letters circulating around Congress. The first letter your member needs to sign urges the Appropriations Committee to appropriate $100 million to Improving Literacy Through Schools (ILTS) in FY2011. President Obama has consolidated ILTS with five other programs, meaning it would compete with other literacy programs for federal dollars. We cannot let ILTS go without this funding because school libraries are essential to a child's education and ILTS is the only federal source of funding for school libraries.

The second letter your Representative in Congress needs to sign asks the House Appropriations Committee for $300 million for the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) in the FY2011 Appropriations bill. The American Library Association's Washington Office has created a chart (pdf) indicating how much your state received for LSTA in FY2010 versus how much your state would receive if LSTA is funded at $300 million. For example, California received $16,971,056 in 2010 and would receive $25,796,264 if LSTA was funded at $300 million. LSTA is the only federal funding for public libraries.

If your representative is a Democrat please ask him/her contact Joseph Mais in Congressman Raul Grijalva's office (at 202-225-2435) to sign these two letters. If your member is a Republican please ask him/her to call Rachel Fenton in Congressman Vernon Ehlers' office (at 202-225-3831) to sign-on.

Furthermore, when you contact your member's office, please explain how important it is that both public libraries and school libraries receive this funding. Tell your member about the critical services your library provides and why it deserves full funding.

If you need to locate your members of Congress, please visit CLA's Capwiz Legislative Action Center and enter your zip code.

Posted by claadmin at 2:38 PM

February 16, 2010

CLA & CSLA Announce Joint Library Advocacy Event

FOLSOM, CA - The California Library Association and the California School Library Association will be hosting Day in the District - an annual statewide library advocacy event - on Friday, April 16th, 2010.

All library advocates are encouraged to participate in this special event, during which participants will meet with elected officials in their home offices throughout the state of California. These Day in the District meetings will provide advocates with a great opportunity to educate legislators and their aides about the importance of libraries within their respective jurisdictions.

The 2010 Day in the District event is being held in conjunction with National Library Week and California's Library Week. Further instructions for participating in this event will be posted on both CLA and CSLA websites.

If you have any other questions please contact Deborah Doyle, CLA Advocacy & Legislative Committee Chair, at 415-269-0940 or email zorrah@gmail.com.

About the California Library Association

More information may be obtained at www.cla-net.org

Official Press Release

Posted by claadmin at 3:03 PM

February 1, 2010

Urgent Message to Library Advocates

The current draft of the Senate's $80 billion version of the Jobs for Main Street Act does not include librarians. However, the bill does include $20.5 billion for "Creating Jobs that Provide Public Services" which includes $18 billion for hiring and retaining teachers; $500 million for hiring firefighters; $500 million for hiring police and $1.5 billion for hiring and training youth.

Library advocates, please call both of your U.S. Senators - in California, Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein - to ask each of them to request that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL), and Senator Byron Dorgan (D-ND), include the hiring and retaining of librarians in the Jobs for Main Street Act.

Barbara Boxer
(202) 224-3553

Dianne Feinstein
(202) 224-3841

You may also call the U.S. Capital switchboard at 202.224.3121. Click here for other Senator's email addresses and contact information

Furthermore, you are encouraged to write Senators Boxer and Feinstein by using CAPWIZ: http://capwiz.com/ala/issues/alert/?alertid=14610606.

This bill could come up at any moment and it is critically important that you contact your Senators' offices immediately and tell them to push the above Senate leaders to include librarians in the jobs bill. Don't just call once - keep calling until we succeed! We cannot let this legislation pass without the inclusion of library employees!

Below you will find helpful information to refer to when contacting your Senators:

BACKGROUND FOR "JOBS FOR MAIN STREET ACT"

1. Libraries play a key role in getting America back to work again. Nationwide, the library is the only source of no-fee Internet access for 71% of Americans. With more and more job applications only being accepted online, the public library is becoming the center of most American's job searches.

2. State Library Agencies reported in November 2009 that 77 percent of states cut funds that support local public libraries, which has meant layoffs, staff furloughs, and forced retirements. This has caused a 75 percent cut in services to the public including canceled statewide databases used for job searching, homework help, and cuts in 24/7 reference, which are used by small businesses and students.

3. Our proposal to be a part of the $20.5 billion program to create jobs that provide public services would not add any additional funding, but would give libraries a specific amount to draw on.

4. The money would be used for library jobs that are focused on assisting patrons with getting back to work - thereby having the impact of assisting literally millions of Americans find employment. None of these funds would be used for facilities or equipment.

5. These funds would be distributed in a clear, concise, affirmative manner. Funds would be distributed to states using a formula through IMLS based 50 percent on population, and 50 percent on relative unemployment (similar to the Department of Labor's Dislocated Worker Program).

6. The Chief State Library Officer in each state would be responsible for distributing funds to local public libraries based on their local needs.

7. A minimum amount of funding per library could offer one library staff job per building based upon need and a maximum of five full-time staff.

8. Funds would be limited to hiring back staff released due to budget cuts, recruiting new staff and/or expanding staff services around job searching and employment skills training.

Posted by claadmin at 3:42 PM

January 21, 2010

News from the Capitol

LEGISLATIVE ANALYST WEIGHS IN AND ASSEMBLY & SENATE BUDGET COMMITTEES BEGIN WORK ON 2010 BUDGET

On January 8, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger presented his 2010-11 State Budget, and in his letter to the legislature, he notes, "With our national economy still struggling to recover, California, like most states, must confront an additional budget gap of nearly $20 billion... My budget calls for even greater reductions in nearly every aspect of state government than were necessary in 2009." In fact, the Governor proposes a series of deep cuts to health and human services, prisons, and state employee compensation adjustments. A major component of the Governor's solution is predicated on the state receiving almost $7 billion in relief from the federal government. It is rumored that the legislative leaders and the Governor will head to Washington D.C. in the coming days to lobby the California congressional delegation and others to plead their case for additional federal funds for California. In the meantime, the Governor has officially called a "special session" of the legislature to address the state's "fiscal emergency," and the "special session" will run concurrently with the 2010 legislative session.

On January 12, the state's non-partisan Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO) released their annual overview and analysis of the Governor's January Budget. The LAO acknowledges the "incredibly daunting challenges" that the legislature will face this year in order to close the $20 billion gap, and recommends the legislature act quickly in order to capture "full year" savings. The LAO's office said that while state leaders should actively request federal funding relief in complex areas such as Medi-Cal and Special Education, they caution that the "likelihood of Washington agreeing to all of the Governor's $7 billion in requests is almost non-existent." In fact, appearing before the Assembly Budget Committee on January 13, the Legislative Analyst, Mac Taylor, told the members of the committee, "I don't think there is any way you would get $7 billion (from the feds). It's probably closer to $3 billion."

The LAO also cautioned both the Assembly Budget Committee as well as their counterparts in the Senate Budget Committee that they should look to some of the Governor's proposals with a cautious eye, as "some of his proposals are not fiscally wise. For example, in In Home Support Services (IHSS), you will eliminate care to people who will ultimately go into more expensive skilled nursing." The LAO pledged to offer the two committees some alternative solutions in the coming weeks. Probably most sobering was the LAO's acknowledgement that even adopting the Governor's deep cut proposals, utilizing fund shifts, and seeking assistance from the federal government, etc. "is not going to solve your long-term Budget problems this year. You are still going to have a $5 to $6 billion problem next year. We need an ongoing solution." Thus, the LAO is suggesting the legislature consider fee proposals, new revenues, etc. in conjunction with cuts to programs.

The Senate and Assembly Budget Subcommittees will continue to hold hearings through the end of May on the Governor's proposal, as well as the LAO's comprehensive analysis and alternative recommendations, which should be available in mid February. As recently reported to CLA members, the Governor's Budget does not propose any cuts for library programs such as the Transaction Based Reimbursement, the Public Library Foundation, or the literacy program.

Submitted to California Libraries by:

Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro
CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 9:51 AM

January 8, 2010

GOVERNOR RELEASES 2010 BUDGET: NO CUTS TO LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Shortly before noon today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger presented what will be his last January Budget, during his final year in office. CLA had been bracing itself for potential cuts to vulnerable library programs such as the Public Library Foundation, Transaction Based Reimbursement and the California Library Literacy and English Acquisition Program, given the state's massive $19.9 billion projected deficit for 2010. However, we are pleased to note, that thanks to Governor Schwarzenegger and his Administration, no cuts are currently being proposed for any of these valuable services in his 2010-11 State Budget. (*)

During his noon address, the Governor noted that while the legislature had closed a significant Budget gap last year, "tough times are still ahead." The Governor acknowledges that the State is facing a $19.9 billion deficit ($6.6 billion in the current year, and $13.3 billion in the 2010-11 year), which he states is due to $3.4 billion in lower revenues, $4.9 billion in court decisions, $1.4 billion in program growth and case load adjustments, etc. He proposes the following solutions to address the gap:

1) $8.5 billion in spending cuts. These will fall primarily upon prisons, Health and Human Services ($2.9 billion in cuts to Medi-Cal, child care reimbursements, In Home Support Services), and in state employee compensation adjustments, specifically a 5% increase in monthly contributions to CalPERS, a 5% salary reduction, and a 5% reduction in the cost of each state department's workforce payroll. Presumably, this latter requirement would also include the State Library. (The Governor would halt the currently imposed furloughs in June 2010).

2) $4.5 billion in fund shifts and creative financing, such as a $986 million transportation funding swap, and fund transfers in areas such as Human Services and CalFire.

3) $6.9 billion in federal funds. The Governor notes that California currently receives 78 cents on the dollar, while Texas receives 94 cents, and New Mexico more than $2 from the federal government. He argues that California is victim to "discriminatory formulas that force us to supplement other states." (Mostly, he says, in the areas of Medi-Cal, federal education mandates, and immigration.) The Governor announced that he will be traveling to Washington D.C. along with California legislative leaders in order to argue for their fair share of the federal dollars. Note: The Governor has cautioned that if federal assumptions don't materialize, his Administration "has a trigger list of additional cuts" that they will submit to the legislature, in order to close the gap.

The Governor has also called a "Special Session" of the legislature to address immediate Budget "solutions." According to the Governor's Director of Finance, Ana Matosantos, the legislature would have 45 days to act under the "Special Session," in order to find $8.9 billion of "full year solutions." If they do not act quickly and wait until July when the new Budget is due, $2.4 billion in "solutions" would be lost.

(*)- The baseline for the Public Library Foundation currently stands at $12.9 million. The Governor is recommending no cut to this program. The baseline for the Transaction Based Reimbursement currently stands at $12.9 million. The Governor is recommending no cut to this program.
The baseline for the California Library Literacy and English Acquisition Program currently stands at $4.5 million. The Governor is recommending no cut to this program.
The Governor is also recommending no cut to the California Newspaper Project nor the California Civil Liberties Public Education Act.

CALIFORNIA STATE ASSEMBLY CHOOSES NEW SPEAKER-ELECT

Yesterday, current Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, who will be termed out at the end of this year's session, thanked the body for the privilege of serving as Speaker, and then she entertained a motion to elect a new Speaker. Over the December holiday, rumors had circulated that Assemblyman John A. Perez had amassed enough votes to succeed Speaker Bass as she phases out her duties this year. Assemblyman Perez, an affable, intelligent legislator from Los Angeles, was perceived to be a solid choice by many, as he is a Freshman member of the Assembly and could assume the role of Speaker for 5 more years, thus ensuring some continuity of leadership. Many have praised his ability to work with divergent interests during his first year in office. Assemblyman Chuck Calderon, who placed Assemblyman Perez's name in nomination said, "Having served under 7 speakers, I have seen what it takes to become a good Speaker. His character, intellect, and skill are intact. He is fair, witty, and keenly analytical." Assemblyman Perez received 48 Democrat votes, while Assembly Republican Leader Sam Blakeslee only received 26 votes.

After the roll was officially announced, Speaker-Elect Perez was escorted to the rostrum to make a few remarks. Most notably, he pledged to get the legislature fully involved in the Budget process. In past years, the so-called "Big 5" - the Governor and the four legislative leaders - have taken over a large part of the negotiations and the deliberations have remained mostly confidential. Assemblyman Perez notes that under his leadership, "The Big 5 is the ending point, not the starting point. I will present your Budget to the Big 5, not the Big 5's Budget to you." He then said to the Assembly body, "Thank you for your confidence and trust." Speaker Bass and Speaker-Elect Perez will issue a statement in the coming weeks regarding the official transition date for leadership.

Submitted by Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 2:14 PM

December 17, 2009

Interim Hearings at the Capitol

On Monday December 14th, the Assembly Budget Committee held an informational hearing on California's debt service obligations. Major testimony came from State Treasurer Bill Lockyer, and Mac Taylor, the State's Legislative Analyst. Treasurer Lockyer pointed out that California's credit rating is now the worst of all 50 states, having passed Louisiana, which had previously been at the bottom. As a consequence, he said that California pays a significant penalty for its low credit rating when issuing General Obligation (GO) bonds. In fact, compared to states with "AAA" rated GO bonds, California pays an additional $380 million for every $1 billion of Bonds issued over a 30 year term. More importantly, the Treasurer said that because of California's poor credit rating, it is "getting harder and harder to go to the capital markets," and he adds that "back East, writers, bankers, and others are very critical of California." Lockyer concluded by telling the Committee, "It has been twelve years since California has had a balanced Budget, and the best thing to benefit the state would be a balanced Budget."

Mac Taylor, the Legislative Analyst, informed the Committee that if all authorized bonds, including the potential $11 billion Water bonds (that will appear on the November 2010 ballot), were sold, California's debt ratio would be close to 10% of the state's General Fund - traditionally it has been less than 6%. Over the longer run, Taylor noted that the Legislature has virtually total control over the debt service through their ability to determine Bond amounts submitted to the voters, as well as when most bond proceeds must be appropriated by the legislature. Further, the legislature can also statutorily suspend authority for previously authorized lease-revenue bonds, as they have done in the past.

On Tuesday, December 15th, the Senate and Assembly Select Committee on Improving State Government, held a hearing at the Capitol titled: Untangling the State and Local Government Relationship: Moving Government Closer to the People. While the three previous hearings dealt with state government operations, this hearing focused specifically on state and local government relations. Committee Co-Chair, Senator Mark DeSaulnier, who previously served four terms on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors opened the hearing by stating, "It is not a stretch to say that the relationship between state and local government is dysfunctional." He noted the hearing was "meant to be a starting off point to stimulate ideas that are best for both state and local government." The principle witness, Maryanne O'Malley, of the Legislative Analyst's Office, summarized what she called "Ten events that shaped California's state-local fiscal relations," including early redevelopment laws, Proposition 13, the so-called "AB 8 bailout after Proposition 13," ERAF shifts in the early 90's, and Proposition 1A which limited the state's authority to shift property taxes.

Following O'Malley's presentation, the Committee heard from a panel of local government witnesses, as well as Mike Genest, the Director of the Department of Finance, and Steve Peace, former Assemblymember and Senator. Chris McKenzie, Executive Director of the League of California Cities, outlined the 2010 proposed ballot measure by the League, the California Alliance for Jobs, and the California Transit Association, that would revoke the state's authority to borrow property taxes, highway user taxes, and redevelopment agency funds. Other witnesses emphasized the need to prevent "state raids" on local government funds. The Committee is scheduled to have its final hearing on January 14th, with the goal of developing legislation to further define the roles and responsibilities of state and local governments.

Submitted by Michael Dillon & Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 4:24 PM

December 11, 2009

California Library Association Names New Chief Executive Officer

FOLSOM, CA - Kim Bui-Burton, 2009-2010 California Library Association (CLA) President, has announced the selection of Michael M. Reyna as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective December 1, 2009.

Mr. Reyna was most recently the Chief Executive Officer of the Consumer Attorneys of California (CAOC). Prior to his time with CAOC, Michael was appointed and confirmed by the U. S. Senate to serve on the Farm Credit Administration Board of Directors for a six-year term, concluding in 2004.

In making the announcement, CLA President Bui-Burton stated that she is "delighted that Mr. Reyna will serve our association as our new executive. Michael brings extensive association and management experience to the position, which will be a real asset for us."

According to Mr. Reyna, "I look forward to working with the California Library Association Board to advance the Association's agenda on behalf of California's libraries, librarians and the people who depend upon them."

Mr. Reyna takes over for Interim Executive Director Claudia Foutz, who had assisted the California Library Association Board during its search for a new executive. California Library Association President Bui-Burton said, "Ms. Foutz's assistance during this transition was invaluable and on behalf of the Board, we wish to thank her for her service."

About the California Library Association

More information may be obtained at www.cla-net.org

Printable Press Release (113 k)

Posted by claadmin at 3:11 PM

November 18, 2009

Legislative Analyst's Office Projects $20.7 Billion Budget Problem

On November 18th, the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO) released a report titled: The 2010-11 Budget: California's Fiscal Outlook. According to the report, the $20.7 billion Budget problem, "consists of a $6.3 billion projected deficit for 2009-10, and a $14.4 billion gap between projected revenues and spending in 2010-11." The vast majority of the new Budget problem, according to the LAO, is the result of several major "solutions" in the recently enacted Budget, that did not pan out as well as additional funding owed to schools. These include:

- The inability to achieve billions of dollars of spending reductions in the prison system and Medi-Cal,

- The inability to sell part of the State Compensation Insurance Fund to generate $1 billion in the 2009-10 Budget Year,

- The loss of a court case involving the state's taking of $800 million in transportation funds in 2009-10,

- A $1 billion increase in the Proposition 98 minimum guarantee to schools, resulting from unique Proposition 98 calculations.

The Legislative Analyst's Office also cautions that additional court cases could make the projected Budget shortfall even higher. Lastly, the LAO forecast "assumes no COLA's or salary increases for state employees through 2014-15," and predicts the gap between "revenues and expenditures will increase to $23 billion in 2012-13, when the state must pay back its loan from local governments under Proposition 1A of 2004."

While the big three revenue sources, Personal Income Tax, Corporate Taxes, and Sales Tax, are down only about $500 million, most of the state's problems are due to the above factors and the admitted gap by the Governor's Administration, when the Budget was revised in July 2009, that the operating shortfall, or the ongoing gap between projected expenditures and revenue, would be about $7.4 billion. The reasons for the shortfall include the use of one time and temporary Budget solutions, including funds borrowed or taken from local government, including property taxes and redevelopment agency funds, which alone exceed $4 billion.

Regarding the issue of providing new revenues for the state's General Fund, the LAO suggests, "the State's fiscal situation is so dire, the Legislature may have to revisit some of the temporary tax increases, including the Vehicle License Fee, and the Dependent Exemption credit," along with a review of current tax expenditure programs offering special deductions and exemptions for businesses etc, "that often have not been shown to be cost-effective."

The Governor will be confronting the issues raised in the Analyst's Fiscal Outlook when he introduces his Budget, probably on January 8, 2010.

Submitted by Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:13 PM

October 15, 2009

News from the Capitol

SENATE RETURNS TO COMPLETE UNFINISHED BUSINESS, INCLUDING SB 67

On September 11th, the last night of the regular Legislative Session, the Senate Republicans became angry over what they believed were a series of broken promises by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, and subsequently they refused to provide the necessary 2/3 vote on approximately 20 important bills that contained "urgency clauses." Among the bills was SB 67, by the Committee on Budget, which contained several technical "clean-up" changes in order to implement the Proposition 1A Securitization program that more than 1100 cities, counties and special districts have already enrolled in. In order to meet the public notice requirements of the Brown Act, and the required deadlines for a mid-November Bond issue, the Senate needed to act on SB 67 by today, October 15th. Fortunately, the earlier disagreements had been resolved, and SB 67 easily passed the Senate yesterday on a bipartisan vote of 37-0. Since the bill had previously passed the Assembly, and merely needed to be acted on by the Senate, the Governor is expected to quickly sign the measure.

HEARINGS ON GOVERNOR'S TAX COMMISSION PROPOSAL

On September 29th, the 14 member Governor's "Commission on the 21st Century Economy," also known as the Governor's Tax Commission, chaired by Gerald Parsky, wrapped up nine months of work in attempting to overhaul the State's tax system. The Commission incorporated its recommendations into a 326 page draft legislation document. While the recommendations do not specifically impact local government, they are perhaps the most significant tax policy changes ever proposed. In brief, the Commissions recommendations are:

1. Reduce Personal Income Tax collections by $15 billion by reducing the number of tax brackets, lowering the top rate and eliminating most credits and deductions.

2. Eliminate entirely, the Corporate Income Tax,

3. Eliminate the State's portion of the sales tax, except for gasoline,

4. Replace the above lost revenues with an entirely new tax on the net receipts of businesses, known as the Business Net Receipts Tax or BNRT.

Last Thursday and Friday, and again yesterday, the Assembly Revenue and Taxation Committee held day-long hearings that included presentations by chairman Parsky, and several of the commissioners. Five of the fourteen commissioners refused to sign the report, including former Assemblyman Fred Keeley (also a member of the reform group "California Forward"). While Parsky argued that the new BNRT would help end the revenue volatility resulting from California's high reliance on the Personal Income Tax, Keeley and dozens of other witnesses argued against the wholesale change to an entirely new untested tax system. Witnesses noted that while a "value added" tax is used in Europe, the new BNRT has not been implemented anywhere in the world.

When pressed by reporters at a recent press conference, where the Commission's report was unveiled, the Governor said he would sign the proposal if it reached his desk. However, given the minimal support for the Commission's recommendations, and the strong opposition from the business community, unions, advocacy groups, and others, it is unlikely legislation implementing the proposals will ever reach the Governor's desk. Work on this subject matter will continue throughout the Fall/Winter with various interim hearings in each house. Interestingly, while the proposal does not directly impact local government, issues such as State/local revenue sharing, and changes to Proposition 13 were discussed during the hearings.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:50 PM

October 13, 2009

Become a Library Advocate @ CLA's Annual Conference

Libraries play an essential role in the community. It is now more important than ever to have effective library advocates to reach out and share this message. Librarians, trustees, Friends of the library, library users who value our services, community leaders, and others can share our message, support our causes, and influence decision-makers.

At this year's annual Conference, taking place in Pasadena, CLA is presenting at least six sessions that specifically focus on advocacy and library support. Please join us to strengthen and expand our critical advocacy efforts for California libraries - at the local, regional, state and national levels. Reach Out!

More Partnerships That Work! A Program for Library Friends, Trustees & Foundation Leaders
Pre-Conference, Friday, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
CLA/CALTAC/Friends of the SFPL
Libraries benefit from partnerships and collaboration. Alliances with strategic partners strengthen fundraising, friend-raising, advocacy and programs. This session of panels and roundtables will showcase collaborations and strategies that result in stronger advocacy, fundraising and library support. Librarians, library employees and students are welcome!

Hold your Ground! How to Maintain Funding in Tough Times
Sat 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.
During these challenging economic times when public funds are scarce, libraries and their vital public services often face the chopping block. This workshop will introduce you to successful strategies to advocate for keeping your library's budget intact and for spreading the word about the ways in which libraries increase in value during economic downturns.

Make it Count! Using Private Philanthropy to Leverage Public Funding
Sat 2:15 - 3:30 p.m.
Library Foundations raise large sums of private financial support; grassroots Friends groups advocate for public funds. Some library partners do both! In the best of all worlds, libraries benefit from partners who fund programs and capital projects through corporate, foundation and individual donors and also make the case at City hall for increased public funding. Learn how two successful library support groups leverage their work to maximize support, without tipping the scale too far in one direction-and how you can do it too!

Reach Out! Library Advocacy 2010: Solutions for Hard Times
Sat 4:45 - 6:00 p.m.
The California Librarians Black Caucus and the African American Interest Group of CLA will provide best practices related to advocacy for libraries during difficult economic times. We will reach out with known celebrities/authors, and speak on the vital roles that libraries play in their communities today and into the future.

Every Voice Makes a Difference: Frontline Library Employee Advocacy
Mon 9:00 - 10: 15 a.m.
Join ALA President Camila Alire and Yolo County Librarian Patty Wong in this discussion. During these tough economic times, every voice can make a difference for our libraries no matter the type of library. There is another level of advocacy that has not been pursued - empowering library employees to advocate the value of their libraries and their value to patrons/users, friends, relatives, and neighbors. This program covers the importance of frontline advocacy and helpful hints on how to do this effectively.

Wake up your Legislators!
(Replaces Politics: Impact of State and Federal Legislation on Your Library)
Mon 8:00 - 8:45 a.m.
Legislative Committee and CALTAC
Plan and strengthen your community's library advocacy strategy using tips from grassroots/grasstops experts. You'll hear about messages, coalition-building, social media tools, and ways to engage fresh faces. Jan Sanders, Pasadena PL; Lena Kennedy, Obama grassroots campaign; Kristin Murphy, ALA Legislative

See you in Pasadena!

Deborah Doyle
CLA Legislative Committee

Posted by claadmin at 1:33 PM

California Library Association Passes Resolution to Restore Civil Liberties: USA PATRIOT Act

October 13, 2009 • SACRAMENTO, CA - The California Library Association (CLA) has just announced a resolution calling on Congress to dramatically revise the up-for-renewal USA PATRIOT Act, passed hurriedly in the weeks following the 9/11 attacks.

Librarians have been front-line opponents of certain provisions of the PATRIOT Act since its passage. The Act has made it possible, under Section 215, for the FBI to request and obtain library records for large numbers of individuals without reason to believe they are involved in illegal activity. This jeopardizes the basic ethics of the library profession, expressed in the Library Bill of Rights of the American Library Association.

Expanding on the American Library Association's PATRIOT Act resolution last July, the CLA resolution goes further to address imminent First and Fourth Amendment concerns with Section 505. This provision grants the FBI broad authority to sidestep constitutional safeguards though use of National Security Letters to obtain information.

CLA Intellectual Freedom Committee chair, Mary Minow, a leading expert on library law, said, "It's past time for the blatantly unconstitutional aspects of this legislation to be removed from the books, and now is the opportunity for Congress to act."

Two sections of the PATRIOT Act are currently up for reauthorization, with sunsets at the end of December 2009, and librarians across the country see this as an opportunity to correct those provisions that attack basic civil liberties. CLA's resolution calls for Congress to allow Section 215 to sunset, to amend Section 505 to "include a clear exemption for library records," and in general to intensify Congressional oversight of the use of the Act.

CLA Resolution on 2009 Reauthorization of the USA PATRIOT Act (481k)

For more information, please contact:

Mary Minow, Chair,
CLA Intellectual Freedom Committee
408-366-0123

Amy Sonnie, Member,
CLA Intellectual Freedom Committee,
415-823-0497

Posted by claadmin at 12:18 PM

September 23, 2009

State Capitol Update

PARTISAN BICKERING AT THE CAPITOL JEOPARDIZES IMPORTANT LOCAL GOVERNMENT BILL

On September 4, SB 67, a skeleton bill, by the Senate Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review was substantially amended to contain 28 pages of language pertaining to the Proposition 1A securitization or "Receivables Financing Program." You will recall, that under the agreement to shift $1.9 billion in property tax from cities, counties, and special districts during the July Budget negotiations, the state authorized local governments to borrow money to off-set the loss, using the state's credit worthiness, such as it is, to guarantee the loans. The bill creating the securitization program was AB 15 (4X) by Assemblyman Ted Gaines, which was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger. However, soon after the bill became law, the Department of Finance, the State Treasurer's Office, and Bond Counsel requested a series of amendments to correct some technical problems. In addition to those changes, SB 67 would also ensure an accelerated schedule for the securitization of the Proposition 1A loans to occur no later than mid-November, and it scores a potential savings of approximately $200-$300 million in interest costs for the state.

Unfortunately, SB 67 fell victim to a series of late-night partisan bickering in the Senate, during the final hours of the 2009 session on Friday, September 11. The Senate Republican leader, Dennis Hollingsworth, expressed concern that procedural motions were being waived without the consent of the minority party, and noted that his side of the aisle was attempting to advance three pieces of legislation important to their caucus. He told the Los Angeles Times, "In order for us to achieve bipartisan agreements, we have to establish and maintain a level of trust that a deal is a deal. It's not one, two or three items that we're negotiating over. It's one big item - trust." Thus, when bills such as SB 67 were brought forward for a vote on the Floor that night, the Senate Republicans refused to grant their votes - which would have provided the necessary two-thirds vote for passage. Only one Republican, Senator Abel Maldonado, crossed party lines to vote in support of the measures. Senate Democrats, for their part, said that the Senate Republicans were holding up 20 critical measures in order to get Democrats to "cave on three unrelated demands." Failure to act, Democrats noted, would ultimately jeopardize bills pertaining to funding for domestic violence shelters and county funding for swine flu, and SB 67.

Local government groups were dumbfounded when they learned that this important clean-up measure (SB 67) had been part of the late-night fall-out between the Senate Democrats and Republicans. When the dust settled, and the legislature left to begin their Fall recess, the League of Cities, the California State Association of Counties, and the California Special Districts Association immediately sent a letter to Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg and Senate Republican Leader Dennis Hollingsworth. The letter requests that these two leaders "take expedited action to reconvene the California State Senate immediately to approve two budget clean-up measures of critical importance to both local government agencies and the state...We urge you, as leaders of our state, to work together - and if necessary with the leadership of the State Assembly - to take immediate action to pass these measures that are so vital to providing local services and keeping our streets, our neighborhoods, and all Californians safe."

Presumably, the only way that the legislature will be able to address SB 67 is to convene a "special session" to pass a similar measure as an "urgency bill." (An "urgency" measure takes effect 30 days after the Governor signs the bill.) There are already indications that the legislature may return in the Fall to participate in "special sessions" on water, tax reform, and education, so it is plausible that legislators could take up SB 67 during that same time period. CLA will continue to keep members posted as details emerge regarding this unforeseen development regarding the Proposition 1A borrowing.

Submitted to California Libraries by:

Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 9:43 AM

August 18, 2009

State Capitol Update

INITIATIVE SIMILAR TO ACA 9 BEING DISCUSSED

A constitutional amendment (ACA 9) by Assemblymember Jared Huffman would change the current 2/3 threshold for passage of local bonded indebtedness for the construction, rehabilitation, or replacement of public improvements, to a 55% vote of the voters of a city, county, or special district. It would also lower the vote requirement for a city, county, or special district to impose a special tax from a two-thirds vote of qualified electors to 55%. ACA 9 has been actively supported by CLA, along with the other local government associations, and unions. It has passed three policy committees in the Assembly, with Democrats voting "aye," and Republicans voting "no." It is opposed by the California Association of Realtors, the California Taxpayers Association, and the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association.

Unfortunately, ACA 9 requires a 2/3 vote for passage on the Assembly Floor, and with all Republicans expected to vote "no" on the measure, it's failure is all but certain. Our readers may recall that the education community suffered a similar fate a number of years ago, when their legislative attempts at reducing the 2/3 vote requirement for bonds failed. However, the education community was ultimately successful in running an initiative campaign to get a statewide ballot measure approved that now allows voters to approve school bonds with a 55% vote of qualified electors.

In light of the potential defeat of ACA 9, a coalition of the major local government organizations, as well as labor and other interest groups, are exploring the possibility of placing a statewide initiative on the ballot in 2010 that would incorporate most of the provisions in ACA 9. In addition to the provisions lowering the vote threshold from 2/3 to 55% for bonds and special taxes, the initiative also parallels the requirements in Assemblymember Huffman's measure, that city councils, county boards of supervisors, or a governing body of a special district would conduct annual audits to ensure that the bond proceeds have been spent on the specific projects. It would also require a public process that solicits a wide range of public comment from the community about the types of facilities that should be funded with the particular bonds. CLA will keep you informed as more information about the proposed initiative becomes available.

Submitted to California Libraries by:
Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 9:32 AM

Legislative Committee Update

The primary focus of the Legislative Committee during 2009 has been the State budget and its impact on libraries. Library representatives across the State used Day in the District and Legislative Day in Sacramento to educate Legislators and their staffs about how public libraries use State-funded programs such as the Public Library Fund (PLF), Transaction-based Reimbursement (TBR), and Literacy to benefit local communities. Thanks to these efforts, and those of our CLA Lobbyists Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, the budget ultimately adopted by the Legislature maintained funding for these programs at last years' levels. This was a real achievement given the deep cuts to most other State programs!

Despite the preservation of PLF and TBR, libraries across the State are feeling the effects of reduced local funding and there is an ongoing risk that the State budget will deteriorate further. With that in mind the Legislative Committee is exploring new, cost-effective ways to engage people in advocating for libraries.

One thing is clear - maintaining legislative support for libraries requires more than just the efforts of the Legislative Committee and more than just visiting Legislators on Day in the District and Legislative Day. Libraries and their supporters need to build long-term relationships with the Legislators who represent them so that they understand the important role we play in our communities and know what is at stake when our funding is reduced. Take action today by looking up your local elected officials on CLA's Capwiz Library Advocacy website!

The Legislative Committee is here to support these efforts, and we'd love your input!

Submitted to California Libraries by:
Kathy Gould, Legislative Committee Chair

Posted by claadmin at 9:24 AM

July 28, 2009

GOVERNOR SIGNS BUDGET AND PROTECTS PUBLIC LIBRARIES FROM "BLUE PENCIL" VETOES

On Friday, July 24th, the Legislature passed and sent to the Governor its third state Budget within the last ten months. The Budget was accompanied by twenty seven "trailer bills" that were necessary to implement cuts to education, various cuts and reforms to Health and Human Services, cuts to the State Department of Corrections, consolidation of several state agencies and boards, and a few "side deals" that were necessary to obtain the two thirds vote required in both houses. In order to solve the $26 billion Budget deficit, the four legislative leaders and the Governor agreed to a package that included: more than $15 billion in cuts, an agreement to borrow or permanently take $3.7 billion from local government, accelerate personal and corporate income taxes, shift $1 billion in payments to schools in future years, and took advantage, wherever other borrowings were possible. This morning, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the 2009-2010 State Budget Revision in a small press room within the Governor's suite of offices. Thankfully, when the Governor released his Budget vetoes, concurrent with the Budget signing, he spared public library programs from any reductions.

In a modest event held with no legislative leaders present, but flanked by his Budget and fiscal staff, the Governor noted that the Budget he was about to sign represented "the good, the bad, and the ugly." He explained that the "good" portion of the Budget represented no new taxes, a government that would live within its means, and elimination of costly boards and commissions. He then noted that the "bad" represented "the kinds of cuts to education, vulnerable citizens, law enforcement... That's why you don't see a celebration here today." He concluded by offering that the "ugly" segment was coined "because the legislature gave me a Budget with a $156 million negative reserve. So I had to go in and make additional cuts." The Governor added, "I always insisted on a half a billion in reserves," and he explained that he had used his "blue pencil" authority to cut $656 million from the Budget sent to him by the legislature, in order to shore up the reserve. He said a modest reserve was necessary as California is prone to natural disasters and "fire season is all year round."

The Governor took full ownership of the cuts he unveiled this morning, stating, "I am the only one responsible for these cuts." Most of the Governor's cuts will be hard-hitting as they are in the areas of health and human services and corrections. For example, the Governor is eliminating $52 million in funding for various programs administered by the Office of AIDS (Education and Prevention, Counseling and Testing, etc.), $16 million for the Domestic Violence Program, $25 million reduction to the Primary and Rural Health Program, $80 million reduction from the county-run Child Welfare Services Program, and the list goes on and on. As previously mentioned, public libraries - more specifically the Public Library Foundation, the Transaction Based Reimbursement program, and the literacy programs, were all protected from the Governor's "blue pencil." This is certainly a modicum of good news, in an otherwise difficult Budget year.

As the Governor correctly opined during his press conference today, "We are not out of troubled waters yet."

The state legislature is currently on summer recess and will return to the State Capitol on August 17th to conclude its work for the first half of the 2009-2010 session.

Submitted by Michael Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 2:55 PM

July 24, 2009

ALL-NIGHTER AT THE CAPITOL PRODUCES A BUDGET

Last night, Senate President pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg joked about bringing "in a cot" in order to endure, what he predicted, could be a long night of Budget deliberations in the State Senate. He was correct, as the Senate pulled an "all-nighter," commencing business around 8 p.m. last night, and stretching the votes on 32 Budget-related different bills to 6:45 a.m. today. In the early hours this morning, the Senate was hung up on a measure to repay K-12 schools, once the economy improves, as well as the controversial proposal to borrow property taxes from local government.

The property tax measure, AB 15 (4X)-Gaines, authorizes $1.935 billion to be borrowed from local governments through the suspension of Proposition 1A (of 2004). Counties, cities, and special districts will have 8 percent of their property tax revenues, received in 2008-09, shifted through a local mechanism to schools, and other services, thereby saving the state a like amount to help balance the Budget. AB 15 (4X) also contains provisions that will allow local governments to participate in a newly established joint powers authority, created by the state for the purpose of "securitizing" a temporary loan to offset the state's borrowing action. The Assembly Democrats' briefing document includes this additional language regarding AB 15 (4X), "As an alternative to participating in the joint securitization, local agencies may choose to take their property tax reduction in 2009-10, and then be repaid by the state directly at an interest rate that will be set by the Department of Finance, subject to a cap of 6 percent. This option is intended to provide an incentive for local agencies that have adequate resources of their own or that have better credit than the state to finance their suspension amount on their own, rather than as part of the joint securitization, which essentially will be a state credit and probably will be expensive given the state's poor credit rating." (Assembly Budget Committee: Budget Briefing document) AB 15 (4X) also contains language to provide "extreme hardship" waivers for local agencies currently in, or in danger of bankruptcy, etc. to qualify for a reduction or wavier of their property tax borrowing obligation. AB 15 (4X) passed by the bare minimum votes required for passage in the Senate.

Meanwhile, in the Assembly, talks had broken down during the night over three major issues: the K-12 education repayment bill, the Proposition 1A measure, and a controversial bill authorizing oil drilling off of Tranquillon Ridge, off the shores of Santa Barbara. At 7:15 a.m., Assembly Speaker Karen Bass said to members of the press corps, "We're going to be here awhile." For several hours the house met intermittently and then both parties caucused, as votes were still uncertain on the three key bills remaining.

At 1:30 p.m., Assembly Speaker Bass called the session back to order and announced, "Members, we have been in session almost 24 hours. We are ready to finish." Subsequent to that announcement, Assembly Democrat Floor Leader Alberto Torrico announced that the Assembly was shelving a bill, detrimental to local governments, to raid the local share of the Highway Users Tax, known as "HUTA." (This action creates an immediate $1 billion hole in the Budget.) While the Senate passed the bill earlier this morning, the Assembly placed the bill on its so-called "Inactive File." It appears this action by the Assembly was in response to a deal that was cut to mitigate some of the overall Budget impacts on local government. In essence, the Assembly had no options with regard to this measure or any of the other measures before them - they could not amend the bills because the Senate had already adjourned, so their choices were to drop a bill (place it on the Inactive File) or pass the bill as is.

At 1:45 p.m., the Assembly took up AB 15 (4X)-Gaines, with Assembly Budget Committee Chair Noreen Evans presenting on the measure, and noting that repayment to local government under the bill would be the "state's highest priority after bonded indebtedness and schools." The measure ultimately passed on a vote of 57 "ayes" to 12 "noes." Subsequently, AB 14 (4X), a companion measure, that authorizes the actual suspension of Proposition 1A, was passed after some obvious arm-twisting by the leadership.

LEGISLATURE TAKES A BREAK - MORE WORK TO BE DONE

As Senate President pro Tem Steinberg closed down the Senate at 6:45 a.m., he cautioned that the Budget difficulties may not be totally behind the Legislature, if the economy does not begin improving. He noted, "We don't know whether we will be back at this. We probably will. Let's come back after a little bit of rest....Let's turn this place around." At 3:10 this afternoon, as Assembly Speaker Karen Bass closed down the session, she thanked the Budget staff and fellow legislators for all of their hard work and commented, "I'm sure you all feel like I do, which is 'fried'."

Both houses will return from their summer break on Monday, August 17, 2009 to conclude the first half of the 2009-10 session, which is scheduled to adjourn on Friday, September 11, 2009.

Notes:

AB 15 (4X) or AB 15XXXX = AB 15 in the 4th Extraordinary Session (Prop 1A Budget Trailer bill)
AB 14 (4X) or AB 14XXXX = AB 14 in the 4th Extraordinary Session (Prop 1A Budget Trailer bill)
AB 1 (4X) or AB 1XXX is the main Budget bill.

Submitted by Michael Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 4:07 PM

July 21, 2009

News from the Capitol

LEGISLATIVE LEADERS REACH A BUDGET DEAL - IMPACT ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT WILL BE SIGNIFICANT

Last night, shortly before 7 p.m., Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the four legislative leaders appeared outside of the Governor's chambers to announce that a deal had been reached on the State Budget. Said the Governor to reporters, "Obviously, you can see that we are very happy because we came to a basic agreement, a budget agreement that, of course, has to be ratified by the legislature and hopefully by Thursday evening....This is a Budget that will have no tax increases, a budget that is cutting spending. We deal with the entire $26 billion deficit, around $15 billion in cuts that we are making." As part of the deal reached last night, cities, counties, and special districts will all endure significant and disproportionate blows to their local budgets. You will recall from our July 16, 2009 "News From the Capitol" report that we had learned, from a credible Capitol source, that an agreement was near on a proposal to: 1) Borrow close to $2 billion in local government property taxes, as allowed under Proposition 1A (2004), 2) Take $1.7 billion from redevelopment agencies, 3) Take close to $1 billion in Highway User Tax funds from cities and counties. In what could certainly be considered the worst case scenario for local government, last night the so-called "Big 5" legislative leaders agreed to go forward with all three of these proposals to help balance the state Budget.

By way of history, Proposition 1A, approved by the voters on the November 2004 ballot, attempted to protect the legislature from borrowing property taxes from cities, counties, and special districts, in future Budget cycles. However, Proposition 1A also contained language stating that beginning in 2008-09, the State may "suspend" the prohibition on taking local property taxes if the Governor proclaims a "significant State fiscal hardship" and gets the legislature to approve one-time borrowing by a two-thirds vote. A cap of 8% was placed on the amount of property taxes that could be taken, and the state would have to repay local government, fully with interest, within three fiscal years. The state could not "borrow" property taxes more than two times in 10 years, and must repay the first loan before a second loan could be made. Under the agreement reached in 2004, 26 county property tax dependent libraries and 11 special district libraries, as well as fire districts, etc., were exempted from a "tax take-away" that year. Over the past several months, CLA has attempted to get these same libraries exempted from the 2009 property tax "borrowing" provisions, particularly if the fire and police special districts were also provided an exemption.

This morning we spoke to legislative staff who have been part of the Budget negotiations, and were informed that the property tax borrowing will affect all of local government â€“ there will be no exemptions. The legislature is clearly trying to send the message that everyone must "share the pain." While there has been some discussion about Proposition 1A not being triggered if certain redevelopment agency actions occur, we have been told that there is a "zero chance" of this happening. Consequently, based on our latest information, it appears that all segments of local government will face an 8% hit. You may recall that language is also being developed that will allow local governments to borrow, if necessary, to off-set the loss, using the state's credit worthiness, such as it is, to guarantee the loans.

CAPITOL HALLS ARE QUIET

As only modest amounts of information regarding the Budget deal trickled out last night, Legislative leaders said they were purposefully holding back on releasing substantive information until the respective caucuses could be briefed today. The Capitol halls are virtually empty this morning, as most legislators are back home in their districts (where they have been since at least Friday). Upon checking, we found that the Assembly Democrats are likely to be briefed via conference call some time today and the Senate Democratic caucus is likely to be briefed tomorrow evening. Both Republican caucuses will likely be briefed Wednesday evening or Thursday morning. One member of the legislature informed us that their caucus had not been briefed on any of the details of the Budget negotiations in recent days, while the other three caucuses had been briefed regularly. Perhaps this approach is what prompted one legislator to Twitter last night, "The Big 5 negotiations keep our members in the dark as to what is going on."

Assuming that a Budget is passed later this week (potentially Thursday), the legislature would immediately adjourn to begin a three week summer recess. They will return to the Capitol to conclude any remaining session business on August 17, with the final adjournment date scheduled for September 11.

Posted by claadmin at 2:20 PM

July 16, 2009

News from the Capitol

Budget Deal Still Elusive

Both the Assembly and Senate adjourned before noon today, and while they will remain "on call" of the Assembly Speaker or Senate President pro Tem, they are not likely to return until the regularly scheduled session on Monday. While there have been continual reports about a Budget deal "getting close," a number of substantive issues are still unresolved, relating to education funding and cuts to In Home Support Services (IHSS), and welfare programs. For example, key legislative staff members and the Department of Finance have found a way to potentially resolve one sticky issue, reducing education funding without suspending Proposition 98, a politically sensitive issue with both Democrats and Republicans. However, disagreements remain between the education community and the Governor's office relating to the so-called "maintenance factor," wherein schools, under certain circumstances, are owed money in future years for funds they were entitled to in prior years but did not receive.

As a few details leak out of the daily meetings between the Big 4 Leaders and the Governor, lobbyists and legislators begin expressing concerns about various proposals being discussed. When the "Big 5" is meeting in the Governor's office, dozens of reporters patiently wait outside, hoping to find information, sometimes to little or no avail. Occasionally, lobbyists and reporters will share tidbits of information.

Yesterday morning, we picked information up from a credible source that an agreement was near on a proposal to: 1) Borrow close to $2 billion in local government property taxes, as allowed under Proposition 1A (2004), 2) Take $1.7 billion from redevelopment agencies, 3) Take close to $1 billion in Highway User Tax funds from cities and counties. This morning, one Republican Senator told us that there was an alternative proposal being discussed to avoid borrowing property taxes from local government. Five minutes later, a key Assembly Republican told us rather firmly that property taxes had to be part of the overall budget deal. These two conversations demonstrate both the difficulty of obtaining any accurate information, and also the difficulty the legislature and the Governor have in trying to reach closure on the Budget.

We will keep you informed as more information becomes available.

Posted by claadmin at 3:27 PM

July 15, 2009

News from the Capitol

Legislative Business Continues While Budget Deal Remains Elusive

As the so-called "Big 5" members of the legislative leadership at the State Capitol continue to hold discussions behind closed doors, to bring about a resolution to the Budget stalemate, policy and fiscal committees continue in earnest, dispensing with hundreds of measures. Since very few of the members of the legislature are actively engaged in the Budget negotiations, this allows regular business to continue "as usual" at the State Capitol. The Senate and Assembly are scheduled to take their annual "legislative recess" for one month, commencing Friday, July 17, but without a Budget in place, those plans may be dashed. Democrat leaders in both houses are visibly frustrated in almost daily press conferences, as they update the media regarding the limited progress of the Budget talks. However, Assembly Republican Leader Sam Blakeslee contends that the 4 leaders and the Governor are making some strides, and he claims talks have been relatively productive.

As this report goes to press, we remain concerned that an ultimate Budget deal will have serious ramifications on the local government community. Reporting several weeks ago, we noted that the Governor and the Senate President pro Tem are now willing to re-engage on the issue of borrowing $2 billion in property taxes from cities, counties, and special districts. This action could likely be taken for two reasons:

1) Republicans in both houses are resistant to raising taxes to help balance the Budget, and
2) Each day that the Budget stalemate is prolonged, the size of the Budget deficit increases, as does the need to make even deeper cuts or find borrowing solutions.

CLA is actively advocating against any borrowing proposal that would harm public libraries.

Look for our regular legislative "News From the Capitol" reports for future updates on the Budget talks.

Submitted to California Libraries by:

Michael Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 9:10 AM

July 1, 2009

LEGISLATURE MISSES IMPORTANT BUDGET DEADLINE - CAUSES BUDGET PROBLEM TO SWELL TO $26.3 BILLION

At approximately 8 p.m. last night (June 30), the Senate took up a series of three so-called "stop gap Budget measures" and the rest of the Budget package, in an attempt to meet the midnight deadline for passage of a Budget by the end of the state's fiscal year. Senate President pro Tempore Darrell Steinberg noted that inaction at the close of this fiscal year would result in the loss of an additional $3 billion in savings that could be scored against Proposition 98 (K-14 schools), and would cause an immediate obligation to schools in the new fiscal year of $5.6 billion. For the past several days, the Governor has said he would veto any "partial solution" Budget bills, as he wanted to see the entire $24 billion deficit addressed in a comprehensive Budget solution. Senate Republicans also have remained steadfast in their opposition to a partial solution, frustrating Senate Democrats who were trying to avoid a situation wherein the State Controller would be forced to issue IOUs. Said President pro Tem Steinberg last night, "This is craziness. There is no excuse for it, to hold the state hostage."

After a lengthy late-night caucus, just before midnight Senator Steinberg then called for the vote on three key Budget bills and could not gain the necessary two-thirds vote required for passage. At a press conference held shortly after midnight, visibly troubled, the Senate President pro Tem stated, "It is the most irresponsible act I have seen in my 15 years in office. The Governor was apparently out to prove a point and he proved his point. I know for me and my Democratic colleagues, we did everything we could to avert this crisis. In the end, the Governor wanted things his way."

Meanwhile, across the hall, the Assembly adjourned for the night some time around 10 p.m. Both houses have been in caucus today in an attempt to forge a compromise. The State Controller has announced that he will begin issuing IOUs on July 2.

In other breaking news, the Governor held a press conference at 11:30 today to address the Budget stalemate. He tersely stated, "Four weeks ago, I warned that swift action was necessary...The sad story is the legislature refused to deal with the $24 billion problem." He added that he has issued an Executive Order to require a 3rd furlough day for state employees, he is invoking his Proposition 58 authority to call the legislature back into emergency special session to deal with the Budget, and he is vowing to veto any bill that is sent to his desk that does not pertain to the Budget or is not an "urgency" measure. Lastly, the Governor noted that the legislature's failure to act last night has created an additional $2 billion whole in the Budget deficit, moving the number to $26.3 billion.

CLA members should be advised that the Governor has put back on the table the concept of borrowing from local governments under Proposition 1A, and the Senate leader said that he would have a dialogue with the Governor about the issue. It is important to note that the longer the Budget impasse continues, the greater the risk of the Governor and the legislature borrowing property taxes from cities, counties, and special districts.

Submitted by Michael Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:32 PM

May 14, 2009

News from the Capitol

GOVERNOR RELEASES TWO VERSIONS OF "MAY REVISION" OF BUDGET: ONE PLAN BORROWS $2 BILLION FROM LOCAL GOVERNMENT

In an unprecedented move, today Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger released his annual "May Revision" of the Budget, and proposed two different versions of the "Revise," which are based on the possible outcomes of the May 19th statewide special election. Version #1 of the May Revision assumes that the ballot measures pass, but the so-called "contingency" May Revise assumes that the ballot measures do not pass, thus leaving a $21.3 billion hole in the state Budget. In his afternoon press event, the Governor stated that the state needs to "plan for either proposal." He added that since the enactment of the February Budget package, the revenue numbers have "changed dramatically" and noted that for the first time since 1938, there has been a drop in personal income taxes. The Director of the Department of Finance, Mike Genest, echoed the Governor's statements noting, "Disturbingly, we will close this year (2008-09) $5 billion in the hole."

Most significant is the proposal in the Governor's "contingency" May Revise to borrow $2 billion from local governments if the May 19th ballot initiatives fail. You will recall that we alerted you to this possibility last week. The Governor's "contingency" May Revise reads:

"$1.982 billion - Borrowing from Local Government. The May Revision contingency plan proposes to borrow eight percent of the property tax revenues received by cities, counties, and special districts in 2008-09 as authorized in Article XIII of Section 25.5 of the Constitution. Repayment must be made within the next three years. Legislation is also proposed to create a joint powers authority to allow local agencies to borrow against the state repayment as a group."

When asked about the proposal to borrow from local government, the Governor stated, "I absolutely despise taking from local government. This is the worst case scenario. It affects our services to police, fire, parks and libraries." Later in the press conference the Governor added, "There is no other way out. We have to pay it back in three years and we hope the economy improves." Please note: This proposal, and all other May Revise proposals by the Governor, will be subject to extensive discussion in the legislature in the coming weeks. When this issue is set in its appropriate Budget subcommittee for hearing, we will alert you and you will have the opportunity to write the members to encourage them to reject the Governor's proposal to borrow from local government. In addition, you may continue writing the four legislative leaders and the Governor to express your concerns.

The press asked the Governor if releasing the so-called "contingency version" of the May Revise was merely a "scare tactic" to encourage voters to vote for the ballot initiatives on May 19th. The Governor stated, "It is important to let the people know what the numbers are and the choices ahead." The Governor was also asked if he anticipated looking at new revenues as a solution, to which the Governor responded, "Looking for new revenues is out of the question. We have to do this with cuts and borrowing. Anyone who has a problem with this approach needs to come forward with a pencil and paper and tell us how to do this...Everyone is very clear in this Capitol. I won't sign a Budget with taxes or even a majority vote Budget."

Other major areas impacted by the Governor's proposals are: proposed deep cuts to K-12 education and higher education, cuts to Medi-cal and to programs benefitting the aged, blind, and disabled, and prison programs. The Governor is also suggesting the elimination of several boards and commissions, the imposition of various new fees, and some fund shifts. It is important to note that, at this point, it does not appear that the Governor - in either May Revise document - proposes any additional cuts to library programs under the State Library (such as PLF, TBR, literacy, etc.)

Submitted by Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:47 PM

May 12, 2009

Video from LegDay Press Conference

Footage from the CLA/CALTAC/CSLA joint press conference has been posted on CLA's Facebook and YouTube pages.

Speakers at this press conference include:

Barbara Roberts, President, California Library Association
Senator Lois Wolk (D-Linden)
Senator Ellen Corbett (D-San Leandro)
Connie Williams, President, California School Library Association
Richard Moore, President, California Association of Library Trustees and Commissioners

Please note that the YouTube video is split into five sections, one for each speaker. We hope you enjoy the footage, let us know what you think!

Posted by claadmin at 10:03 AM

May 7, 2009

News from the Capitol - Update

I. LEGISLATIVE ANALYST'S OFFICE RELEASES UPDATE ON STATE'S CASH FLOW

This morning the state's Legislative Analyst released a new report entitled, "California's Cash Flow Crisis: May 2009 Update." In the report, the LAO cautions: "The General Fund's 'cash cushion' - the monies available to pay state bills at any given time - currently is projected to end 2008-09 at a much lower level than normal. Without additional legislative measures to address the state's fiscal difficulties or unprecedented amounts of borrowing from the short-term credit markets, the state will not be able to pay many of its bills on time for much of its 2009-2010 fiscal year." The LAO goes on to state, "In our opinion, the greatest near-term threat to state cash flows would be an inability by state leaders to quickly address California's Budget imbalance."

The LAO remarks that the state has a cash cushion of $6.9 billion to take them through to June 30, but that amount is "roughly one-half of the cash cushion the state had one year before." Another complicating factor will be the success or failure of the ballot initiatives on the May 19th ballot. For example, should the ballot measures fail, the state's borrowing requirement from private investors in 2009-10 would "swell to around $23 billion." The LAO cautions that "major financial institutions reportedly have indicated to state officials that California will have difficulty borrowing $13 billion from the short-term markets based on its own credit in 2009-10 - let alone the much larger amount of around $23 billion..." and recommends that borrowing for cash flow purposes should not exceed $10 billion. (e.g. This means more cuts.)

The LAO suggests that some options to address the widening Budget gap and subsequent cash flow issue would be: increase state revenues, decrease expenditures, defer payments to schools yet again, and accelerate the issuance of lottery securitization bonds.

Interestingly, today Assembly Speaker Karen Bass is in Washington D.C., speaking to federal officials about California's problematic state finances. However, the LAO warns in today's report that the legislature should "be cautious about accepting any strings that might be attached to federal assistance. Strings attached to recent corporate bailouts - as well as federal loan guarantees provided to New York City during its fiscal crisis three decades ago - have included measures to remove financial and operational autonomy from executives. We recommend that the Legislature agree to no substantial diminishment in the role of California's elected state leaders. In our opinion, the difficult decisions to balance the state's budget now are preferable to Californians losing some control over the state's finances and priorities to federal officials for years to come."

II. ACA 9-HUFFMAN: 55% VOTE FOR BONDS AND LOCAL TAXES PASSES FIRST COMMITTEE

Yesterday, the Assembly Local Government Committee heard ACA 9 by Assemblyman Jared Huffman which lowers the vote threshold for local bonded indebtedness projects from the current two-thirds vote to a 55% vote. It would also change the two-thirds voter approval requirement for special taxes to 55% of the voters voting on a tax. In his opening remarks, Assemblyman Huffman noted that "Proposition 13 sharply constrained local government's ability to raise revenues... The current situation is pretty bleak for local government. The federal stimulus will help, but it is a drop in the bucket and it doesn't address infrastructure needs. The state is running out of credit. How revenues are raised are the most acute and tangible at the local level." Assemblyman Huffman presented several examples of bond or tax campaigns that received 62% of the vote of the local electorate, yet still fell short of the required two-thirds majority. He argued, thus, that a "small majority of voters thwart the will of the majority."

Support for ACA 9 consisted of representatives from police, fire, water and wastewater, transit, parks and recreation, the League of Cities, the California State Association of Counties, and CLA. The measure was opposed by the California Association of Realtors and the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. Several committee members expressed their support of the measure by noting that it is "important to give communities a choice on what they wish to do." The measure passed on a partisan vote of 5 to 2 to the Assembly Revenue and Taxation Committee for a second policy committee hearing. If ACA 9 eventually makes it to the Assembly Floor for a vote, it will require a two-thirds vote for passage, which will be very difficult to obtain, in light of traditional Republican opposition to similar measures.

III. CLA EXPLORES AVAILABILITY OF FEDERAL ARRA FUNDS FOR LIBRARIES

For the last several months, the legislature has engaged in preliminary discussions regarding how the state will implement portions of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Some policy areas, such as K-12 education, water, and transportation have been more active than others, as early deadlines to apply for federal money in those segments are in full swing. Overall, however, the process has been relatively slow, confusing, and extremely detailed in nature, as California is guarding against just "throwing money" at projects, and stresses the need for accountability and reporting for how the money is spent.

With regard to libraries and ARRA, there has been some confusion. Rumors circulated early on that public libraries would be able to draw down ARRA dollars for construction of new facilities or possibly renovation of existing facilities. There is no language contained in the ARRA California plan that indicates that libraries specifically, or even schools, are eligible for the construction or rehabilitation funding, and this has been confirmed at several different levels at the Capitol. Second, while other states' public libraries may be benefitting from ARRA dollars for infrastructure, California is unique in that they have chosen to use a good portion of an undesignated $1.1 billion set-aside to backfill the state Budget deficit. CLA continues to work very hard on your behalf to see if we can identify other emerging funds to benefit public libraries. For weeks, we have been actively engaged with a key Senate Committee that has requested detailed information from CLA and the State Library relative to statewide broadband needs. Additionally, a representative from the CLA Legislative Committee, Deborah Doyle, recently appeared before the Public Utilities Commission on behalf of CLA to stress the need to provide broadband services to the underserved and to provide increased bandwidth to libraries with slow speed capabilities. Lastly, we continue to pursue available ARRA dollars for public libraries in the workforce investment arena. We will keep you posted as details emerge.

IV. ASSEMBLY REPUBLICAN LEADER VILLINES STEPS DOWN - SUCCESSOR IS NAMED

Yesterday afternoon the lobbying corps received surprising news - that the affable and always approachable Assemblyman Mike Villines was stepping down from his post as Assembly Republican Leader. You may recall that Assemblyman Villines had served as Republican Leader for two and a half years, but most recently was involved in the high level negotiations for the difficult and protracted Budget debate in February and March. His job to help facilitate an agreement was made very difficult, as almost every member of his caucus signed a "no new taxes" pledge, and conservative radio stations threatened to recall any Republican who supported the Budget.

When Assemblyman Villines stepped down from his post today he noted that "it has been a privilege for me to lead Assembly Republicans over these past two and a half years and achieve so many positive changes for our state. California still faces many significant challenges and now, more than ever, we must stand unified as Republicans and work hard to get California back on track." Following this announcement, the Assembly Republican Caucus elected Assemblyman Sam Blakeslee (R-33) as their new leader. He represents the communities of Santa Maria, San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Morrow Bay, etc. Dr. Sam Blakeslee served in the leadership team of Assemblyman Villines and is a published research scientist and president of an investment firm. Not unlike Assemblyman Villines, Blakeslee is well liked by his colleagues and the lobbying community, and is considered to be a thoughtful problem solver.

Submitted by Mike Dillon & Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:47 PM

News from the Capitol

GOVERNOR'S ADMINISTRATION WARNS: THE STATE MAY BORROW $2 BILLION FROM LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IF MAY 19TH BALLOT MEASURES FAIL

Yesterday, the State Department of Finance informed several local government organizations that, with the possibility that the May 19th ballot initiatives may not be successful, one of the options to address the potential Budget shortfall would be to borrow approximately $2 billion in property taxes from local governments.

The background paper provided during the briefing by the Department of Finance states:

"The constitution allows that up to 8% of local governments' property tax revenues can be borrowed by the state and repaid within three budget years with interest. The amount that can be borrowed is determined by the amount of property taxes received by cities, counties, and special districts in the preceding year. Borrowing from local government in the 2009-10 fiscal year would provide $2.006 billion in solutions.

Local governments could borrow against the state's constitutional obligation to repay, thereby mitigating the impact of this reduction. However, in the current economic landscape, local governments are not easily finding available short term financing and could face difficulties borrowing these funds from the market. If they borrow, local government will incur substantial borrowing costs."

The Department of Finance also acknowledges that there would be varying affects on local governments as it "will, in part, depend on the ability of local government to obtain borrowing from the market. This reduction could result in cuts to locally funded services such as police and fire, waste collection, road maintenance, libraries and other services."

As you will recall, Proposition 1A in 2004, provided certain protections for cities, counties, and special districts against future raids of their property taxes, for the purpose of balancing the state Budget. However, contained in Proposition 1A was a caveat, which allows the state, beginning in 2008-09, to "suspend" the prohibition on taking local property taxes if the Governor proclaims a "significant State fiscal hardshipâ€ and gets the Legislature to agree by a 2/3rds vote. If you are interested, the legislation spelling out the terms of Proposition 1A is contained in SCA 4 (2004) and SB 1096 - a Budget trailer bill from 2004.

Last year, during the very difficult and protracted Budget deliberations, there was an ongoing threat that the Budget deal would include borrowing property taxes from cities, counties, and special districts. Thanks to opposition from affected groups, the proposal was not included in the final Budget agreement. As you may be reading, and it is particularly indicative in early polling data, there is a strong likelihood that several, if not all of the ballot measures will fail on May 19th, resulting in a $6 billion loss in revenue, primarily from the loss of $5 billion in lottery securitization funds (Proposition 1C). Coupled with the $8 billion shortfall already projected by the Legislative Analyst's Office, there will be an immediate $14 billion hole in the state Budget. Some Republican members of the legislature have stressed that "taxes will not be an option this time around" and thus, the legislature will be looking to solutions such as cuts, borrowing, and increased fees.

Please take a moment today to write the Governor and the four legislative leaders, as well as your own Senator and Assemblymember(s) to encourage their opposition to any proposal that would borrow property taxes from cities, counties, and special districts. In your letters, please indicate how your Budgets are already stretched thin, and that you could not endure a deep and significant cut, such as the one the Governor's Department of Finance is suggesting.

The Honorable Arnold Schwarzenegger
Governor, State of California
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Darrell Steinberg
Senate President pro Tempore
Room 205
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Dennis Hollingsworth
Senate Republican Leader
Room 305
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Karen Bass
Speaker of the California Assembly
Room 219
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Mike Villines
Assembly Republican Leader
Room 3104
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 7:34 AM

April 16, 2009

LegDay a Success!

Thanks to everybody who participated in yesterday's successful Legislative Day in Sacramento. Because of your participation, our Legislators have been reminded of the important role libraries play in the lives of all Californians.

We were pleased to have a great turnout for our media event on the Capitol steps, and to have coverage by the Gannett News Service and Capitol Weekly. Your local media may also be interested in this story, so we have prepared a draft media release for use by your library jurisdiction if appropriate. The draft release can be found here. Please feel free to customize the release to reflect your library services and the needs of your community.

If you elect to use the release and as a result, receive media coverage, CLA would love to hear about it. Please send any relevant information to Richard Berta at rberta@cla-net.org.

Again, thank you for your participation.

Kathy Gould
Chair, CLA Legislative Committee

Posted by claadmin at 1:31 PM

March 25, 2009

Letter to Senate Rules Committee Regarding CLA's Sponsored Resolution

Dear Senate President pro Tem Steinberg:

The California Library Association is in support of SCR 27 by Senator Wolk, which would declare April 12 through April 18, 2009 as "National Library Week." CLA is sponsoring this resolution in order to celebrate the numerous positive contributions of public libraries throughout the state.

California's libraries are a tremendous resource for over 21 million library patrons annually. Libraries have become particularly popular during this period of economic instability, as money and resources have become increasingly tight for many people affected negatively by the economic downturn. Patrons are using computers at the library to perform job searches or to prepare a resume, while others are actively borrowing books and materials, rather than purchasing these items at a bookstore. Public libraries throughout California are also providing important literacy services for adult learners, offering supplemental K-12 school programs such as "Homework Help Centers," working collaboratively with financial institutions to provide financial literacy services, and partnering with pediatric clinics to demonstrate to new parents the value of reading to their children.

Many of California's public libraries will be celebrating "National Library Week" by highlighting some of the valuable services they provide from April 12 through April 18th. We thank the legislature and Senator Wolk for this important recognition for public libraries.

Sincerely,

Michael F. Dillon & Christina Dillon DiCaro

Posted by claadmin at 9:31 AM

March 23, 2009

Testimony Before the PUC Concerning Federal Stimulus Funds for Broadband in CA

Submitted to the Public Utilities Commission of the State of California
March 22, 2009
San Francisco

In the Matter of Maximizing the Benefit of Federal Stimulus Funds
For Broadband in California

COMMENTS OF THE CALIFORNIA LIBRARY ASSOCIATION

The California Library Association (CLA), a 501c3 non profit organization representing the community and more than 3,000 personal, organizational and business members, strongly urges the Commission to consider the crucial role that libraries play in providing California residents with access to Internet connectivity.

More than 70 percent of those who use library computers say it's their primary source for connecting to the Internet. Yet revenues at one-third of public libraries are shrinking. As a result, staff members receive less training in computer skills, people wait to use outdated computers, and slow Internet connections can't handle streaming video.

Libraries fill a crucial role in providing the general public with access to Internet connectivity. Ninety-six percent (96%) of California's public libraries offer the public access to the Internet - this is particularly important in areas where broadband is not widely deployed or for segments of the population who cannot obtain or afford high-speed access; however, a large percent of those libraries don't have sufficient bandwidth for their communities' needs.

Public libraries always have been, and continue to be, important centers of educational and economic opportunity for the public, and often provide access to computers and broadband Internet services that are otherwise unavailable to several sectors of our society; increasing their capacity to provide these services will ensure service to critical underserved Californians.

The Internet has transformed the manner in which individuals, businesses and government interact with one another. In this highly interconnected world, California's economic and educational competitiveness is challenged as never before. Public libraries play an important role within their communities by helping the public adapt to this new technologically sophisticated environment.

The advent of broadband communications has enhanced the value of public libraries to the California residents and has increased libraries' roles as centers for learning and community activity. The public relies upon its local public libraries as their primary source of public broadband connectivity. As the economic crisis in the U.S. deepens, visits to public libraries are up across the country. Many libraries in states across the country are reporting that online services are in high demand, especially for job seekers, students, and people who do not have Internet access elsewhere.

For instance:

- As local, state and federal governments are increasing reliance on e-government, the public depends on their local public library to access and properly use government information and government services on the Internet.
- Libraries are central institutions within their communities and serve critical roles as disaster response facilities, as we saw evidenced after disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and last year's fires in Southern California.
- Students use the public libraries' Internet services to complete homework assignments, download informational videos or course lectures, access scholarly journals, attend distance learning classes and collaborate with others on joint research projects.
- California farmers and other key figures in the rural economies rely on Internet connectivity from their local public library to acquire agricultural information and many other purposes.
- To allow rural communities to survive in these areas of low connectivity, libraries often provide economical and free to the public Internet access.
- Low-income people use public libraries to acquire information and apply for jobs, food stamps and other public assistance programs.
- Senior citizens find public libraries to be of enormous assistance in acquiring information on health issues, government programs and maintaining connections with family and friends who live far away.

Members of the public often have no other access to a computer, much less broadband connectivity. Owning a computer and keeping up with the technical and financial responsibilities of maintaining an Internet connection in the home may be overwhelming for the young, the elderly or those who have no technological experience. California public libraries offer the opportunity for consumers to walk into a library, sit down at a computer and immediately begin using the Internet without having to worry about acquiring a computer, subscribing to an Internet connection, connecting their computer to that connection and keeping up with the software changes that occur on a regular basis. When the public library takes care of these responsibilities on behalf of the consumer, it provides an enormous benefit to the community. According to one study, individuals with lower annual income (below $15,000) are more likely to rely upon usage of a computer at a library then people with higher levels of income (greater than $75,000).

You'll be pleased to hear that California libraries are part of a new $7 million initiative of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, a pilot program that will support improved Internet connections for public libraries in seven states. As Jill Nishi, deputy director of U.S. Libraries at the Gates Foundation. "Public libraries across the country have played an integral role in closing the digital divide for millions of Americans, but local governments, communities, and library supporters must do more to ensure libraries can continue to provide fast, reliable Internet service for communities."

As essential providers of connectivity, particularly to vulnerable populations and those in underserved areas, the California Library Association urges Commission to remember the importance of libraries as they engage in the effort to maximize the benefits of the federal stimulus funds. You have a remarkable opportunity to make a difference. Libraries can help you reach Californians in every community.

Thank you for listening to our concerns.

Respectfully submitted,

Deborah Doyle
California Library Association
717 20th Street, Suite 200, Sacramento, CA 95811
916.447.8541 tel | 916.447.8394 fax | info@cla-net.org

Posted by claadmin at 10:29 AM

National Library Legislative Days Approaching

National Library Legislative Day(s) are quickly approaching. Once again, library advocates will gather--this year on Monday, May 11th and Tuesday, May 12th--at the Liaison Hotel in Washington, D.C. There are other hotels within walking distance and on the nearby Metro lines.

The Liaison Capitol Hill, An Affinia Hotel | Washington, DC
415 New Jersey Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20001
Tel: 202.638.1616 l Fax: 202.347.1813
http://www.affinia.com/Reservations.aspx

With a new administration and a new political climate in both the House and the Senate, this is a very critical and exciting time for us to get our message out to Congress. Our ALA colleagues in Washington are still finalizing the program, but promise to have some very useful information for us. We hope to have a strong California presence in Washington, D.C. this year for these very important congressional visits. Your participation will encourage others to attend.

Additional information is available on the ALA website here: http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/wo/washevents/nlld/nlld2009.cfm

The online registration form is here: http://www.ala.org/ala/aboutala/offices/wo/washevents/nlld/registrationa/registration.cfm

As in previous years, your registration form and check should go to:

Jeri Takeda
MCLS
248 E. Foothill Blvd., Suite 101
Monrovia, CA 91016

(Please note the new address. MCLS has moved since last year).

Jeri, who has been gracious enough to take this on again, will collect all of the registration forms and checks and submit them in one package as recommended by ALA. Your check for $20 should be payable to "National Library Legislative Day." Please submit your registration form and check to Jeri by Friday, March 27, 2008 to allow Jeri time to forward them to ALA prior to their final deadline. Even if you pay through Paypal on the ALA website, send a registration form to Jeri.

Posted by claadmin at 9:48 AM

February 20, 2009

GOVERNOR SIGNS 2009-10 BUDGET - NO CUTS TO LIBRARY PROGRAMS

At 2 p.m. this afternoon, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the long-awaited 2009-2010 Budget bill (SB 1 - Third Extraordinary Session), a tax increase measure, and corresponding Budget "trailer bills," in a room located within the Governor's offices. The press, we understand, was not invited to the signing, which is rather unusual. The signing of the "Budget Act Package" was supposed to commence at 11:30 a.m. and then was ultimately pushed back to 2 p.m. today.

You may recall that the Senate worked to obtain the 27th necessary vote for passage of the Budget bill by negotiating with Senate Republican Abel Maldonado. One of the conditions for Senator Maldonado's vote was the request that an additional $600 million in cuts be made to the Budget. Today, when the Governor signed the Budget bill, he used his so-called "blue pencil" authority, and actually made $957 million in reductions to programs. CLA is pleased to note that the Governor did not make any reductions to the State Library or to its programs such as the Public Library Foundation, Transaction Based Reimbursement, or the adult literacy program.

The Governor made reductions in most of the budgets of the Executive officers, such as the Treasurer, Controller, Board of Equalization, Insurance Commissioner, and Lieutenant Governor. You may recall that recently the Executive Officers rejected the Governor's Executive Order calling for all state employees to take a two day per month furlough, which resulted in approximately a 10 percent pay reduction for employees. Interestingly, it appears that the reductions made to the Constitutional Officers' budgets, more or less, correspond to the Governor's earlier Executive Order. In fact, in his blue pencil message, regarding the Controller's Budget, the Governor stated, "I am reducing this appropriation by 10 percent of the State Controller's personal services budget, which reflects the state employee compensation reductions for furloughs, overtime reform, and elimination of two state holidays. I am reducing these funds to ensure equity among all executive branch agencies relative to employee compensation levels." The largest of the cuts, however, fell on the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, which was reduced by $400 million.

Submitted by Michael Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:28 PM

February 18, 2009

Late-Night Leadership Change in Senate while Senators are in Budget "Lockdown"

2/3rds Vote In Senate Still Elusive - Budget Talks Continue

A major shake-up in the Senate Republican Caucus last night raises concerns today as to whether a Budget compromise can be reached in the next 24 hours, or if it will force Budget negotiations to be completely re-opened.

As you have been reading in the papers, the California State Assembly has indicated that they have the necessary two-thirds vote (51 Democrats and 3 Republicans) to pass the Budget, the tax measure, and corresponding Budget "trailer bills." However, in the State Senate, while all of the Democrats have pledged to vote for the Budget package, the leadership has been unable to obtain a third Republican vote in order to achieve the two-thirds threshold for passage (2 Republicans had committed their vote thus far - Senators Cogdill and Ashburn). Ironically, were it not for the vacant Democrat seat of former Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas, who was just elected to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, the third Republican vote would not be needed (i.e. 25 Democrats and only 2 Republicans would be needed to achieve the 27 votes in the Senate).

Talks broke down in the Senate over the President's Day weekend, and again yesterday, leading to frustration and concern over whether or not a deal can ultimately be achieved. The Senate is currently in session in "lock down," which means they are prohibited from leaving the Capitol until instructed otherwise. Many Senators spent the night on couches, cots, and in sleeping bags. The focus of the negotiations is on Republican Senator Dave Cox of Sacramento and Republican Senator Abel Maldonado of Santa Maria, who are being seen as the most likely candidates for the necessary vote. Senate Republicans are frustrated by the fact that the Budget deal was negotiated over many weeks, in private, between Democratic leaders, Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg and Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, Senate Republican Leader Cogdill and Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines, and the Governor. However, it should be noted that regardless of the Budget process, all but one Republican has signed a pledge, sponsored by an anti-tax group, indicating that they will oppose efforts to raise taxes. Most members, thus, refuse to budge from that position, making negotiations very difficult, as the Budget deal proposes to raise $14.3 billion in taxes, and would make $15.8 billion in cuts.

Senate Republican Leader Dave Cogdill had presented the Budget package to his caucus last week and explained to the media, "I felt it was as good as I could get and I was willing to release my members." Despite the fact that the Budget proposal contains deep cuts, a proposal for a spending cap, and some relief for California businesses, his caucus continued to express its displeasure with the package. Over the President's Day weekend, pressure mounted from the conservatives in the caucus, and Senator Cogdill even offered to step down as leader, but was ultimately asked to remain in his position. However, in a surprise move, shortly before midnight last night, Senate Republicans held a caucus meeting, ultimately deciding to force Senate Republican Dave Cogdill to step down as leader, and replacing him with conservative Senator Dennis Hollingsworth from Murrieta, California. Several of the members of the caucus, rumored to be the critical "swing vote members," refused to vote for Cogdill's ouster. Senator Maldonado stated, "I just can't believe in the middle of the night we would oust our leader...It's the wrong time to make a change in the process." The announcement was made shortly thereafter on the Senate Floor that the Republicans had elected a new leader, and Senator Cogdill received a nice round of applause for his hard work to date. He later told a Sacramento television station, KCRA, "I did the best job I could. I felt sincerely when we took the budget to the floor, the votes were there. Obviously, that wasn't the case. But that wasn't my belief when the budget went to the floor." He added, "Inaction is not an option. The consequences of an extended Budget impasse will be catastrophic, hurting real Californians and bringing irreversible damage to our state's finances and the economy." Assembly Republican Mike Villines released a statement upon hearing that his colleague had been removed as leader, "I want to offer my sincere admiration and deepest appreciation to my friend and colleague, Dave Codgill for his principled leadership on behalf of our party as Senate Republican Leader. A true statesman in every sense of the word, Dave put what he thought was best for California ahead of his own personal interests."

At approximately 12:30 a.m. this morning, Senator Steinberg put the tax bill (SB 3XXX - Third Extraordinary Session) up for a vote on the Floor, where it did not have the necessary two-thirds vote for passage, and the measure was ultimately placed "on call" until this morning. Around 10:30 a.m. today, the Senate lifted the call on the bill yet again, only to find that it still lacked the necessary votes. At 1 p.m. Senator Steinberg vowed to bring the bill up hourly in order to "inform the public of the financial impact of not reaching an agreement." Many in the Capitol are concerned now that, with the new Senate Republican leadership change, there is a possibility that the negotiations could grind to a halt. Said Senator Hollingsworth this morning to KCRA, "I think the majority of my caucus doesn't want to see a tax increase passed in the package. We'll see what happens in the next few hours, next few days." Meanwhile, Senate President pro Tem Steinberg continues his work to shore up a third Republican vote. Both he and Assembly Speaker Bass have stated they will not welcome the idea of reopening talks to further delay the Budget. Over in the Assembly, they announced this morning that they will remain "on call of the Chair." The Assembly must wait until the Senate takes action on their Budget package, before they will close out the business in their house.

Note: We have reviewed the Budget bills (SB 1XXX and AB 1XXX - 3rd Extraordinary Session) and have determined that there are no proposed cuts contained in either bill to library programs, such as the Public Library Foundation, Transaction Based Reimbursement or the adult literacy program.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 2:14 PM

February 17, 2009

Budget Deal Reached - Are Votes There for Passage?

As reported in the press, a Budget deal between the four legislative leaders and the Governor, appears to have been reached. The Assembly will be meeting to vote at 9 am Saturday, and the Senate has just announced that they will convene at 9 am Saturday as well. As reported by the media, the package includes a temporary 1% increase in the sales tax, increasing the Vehicle License Fee (VLF) to 1.15% of market value, a one-time 5% income tax surcharge, and a 12-cent gas tax increase. The Budget will also ask voters to approve a plan to borrow against future State Lottery revenues, as well as asking voters to redirect $608 million in so-called "First 5 Funds," for early child development. As a way of discouraging attempts by various organizations to defeat the spending cap provision, that will likely be placed on a May or June ballot, the sales, and VLF tax provisions would stay in effect for 5 years, if the initiative passes, or for only two years, if it fails.

In a unique twist, legislative staff has drafted several different versions of "trailer bills," depending on which approach is ultimately agreed to. We have talked to a few key sources who do not feel that library programs are in danger of being cut when the details of the Budget plan emerges late tonight.

In the meantime, both Democrats and Republicans are being targeted by their constituencies, to oppose the Budget agreement. Making matters more difficult, is the demand by Republicans, that every Democrat in the Assembly and Senate vote for the bill, before they put up their three votes in each house to meet the necessary 2/3 vote requirement for passage. Four Democratic Assemblymembers, who won Republican seats in the last election, as well as one Democratic Senator, who pledged not to raise taxes during a close election in November, find themselves in a difficult situation. Nonetheless, both Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, and Senate President Pro tem Darrell Steinberg, are optimistic they will have all of the necessary Democratic votes. Whether there will be the three necessary Republican votes, in each house, is still uncertain. Yesterday, one Republican lawmaker, who is opposed to any tax increases, informed us that he told his wife, "I may not see you for a few days."

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 9:57 AM

February 4, 2009

Letter from Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack

The following email was received from Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack in response to a letter about the CPSC and lead testing:

February 3, 2009

Dear Mr. Gray:

Thank you for writing with your concerns regarding the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) of 2008. I appreciate hearing from you about this important issue.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) was created in 1972 in response to concerns regarding the safety of many consumer products. Since its inception, the CPSC has worked to protect American consumers by establishing consumer product safety standards and to inspect, recall, and restrict importation of unsafe consumer products. Recent breaches in the safety of consumer products have called attention to the effectiveness of the CPSC, and the adequacy of its authority and resources to fulfill its purpose.

After many hearings and significant legislative consideration, Congress passed the Consumer Product Safety Act which was signed into law by President Bush in September of 2008. While the intent of the CPSIA was to provide additional resources and strengthen existing regulations and oversight, it is clear that there have been several unintended and serious consequences of this law.

I appreciate hearing from you with your particular concerns relating to the implementation of this law. As your representative, it is critical that I hear from you regarding how the laws that Congress passes impact you. I have written to the Chairmen of the Energy and Commerce Committee and the Commerce, Trade and Consumer Protection Subcommittee, requesting that they hold hearings to investigate these serious problems. Please rest assured that as this process moves forward, I will keep your thoughts in mind.

Sincerely,

MARY BONO
Member of Congress

Posted by claadmin at 7:41 AM

January 30, 2009

ALA Files Comments, Urges CPSC To Exempt Libraries from Regulation Under Consumer Product Safety Act

The American Library Association (ALA) today filed comments with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), urging the commission to issue notification confirming that the new lead limits under the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSIA) do not apply to library books and related materials.

Under the CPSIA, which was passed by Congress in August, children's products are required to undergo stringent testing for lead and phthalates. Currently, the General Counsel of the CPSC is interpreting the law to apply to ordinary, paper-based books for children 12 years of age or younger, so that all such books and product would have to be tested for lead content. Therefore, public, school, academic and museum libraries would be required either to remove all their children's books or ban all children under 12 from visiting the facilities as of February 10.

The ALA's comments explain that the new CPSIA standards applicable to children's products should not apply to library books on library shelves prior to February 10. Since a library's books are neither "produced" nor "distributed" by the library, the law should not apply to library books. At this point, however, the CPSC has indicated that the law will apply to libraries.

Additionally, the ALA's comments reaffirm the comprehensive evidentiary support the publishing community has supplied the Commission that children's books do not present any of the health or safety risks to children that the law aims to address. This evidence provides an ample basis for CPSC to exercise its regulatory authority to determine that books inherently satisfy the new lead standards.

Emily Sheketoff, executive director of the ALA Washington Office, said it is critical the CPSC take these comments into consideration.

"If the commission does not correct their ruling to include library books under the regulation of the Consumer Product Safety Act, communities and schools across the country are going to be shocked and outraged on February 10," Sheketoff said.

"While we understand the process the CPSC must carry out in order to ensure this law is properly enforced and that the safety of our nation's children is protected, we believe the commission is wasting time and resources by zeroing in on book."

ALA's letter to the CPSC (41k)

Posted by claadmin at 10:36 AM

January 13, 2009

Day in the District 2009

The 2009 Day in the District meetings with State Legislators will be held on January 30 and February 6.

The focus of "Day in the District" is on fostering dialogue between local libraries and the legislators who represent the communities served by those libraries. To assist with these meetings, the CLA Legislative Committee has provided a list of talking points, and CLA Lobbyists, Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, have prepared "Tips for lobbying your Legislator during difficult budget years." Both documents are available on the Day in the District webpage.

California libraries experienced deep budget cuts to PLF and TBR funding in FY 07-08 and FY 08-09 that will have long-term effects. Please come prepared to talk about your library, how these cuts affect your library, and how you are making a difference in the lives of the Legislator's constituents.

Our network of legislative contacts is hard at work setting up appointments. To register for an appointment with your legislator, go to the Library Legislative Day in the District Online Database at: http://www.legiday.net.

At the login screen enter:
Account Name: member
Password: member

After you hit enter you will be taken to a new screen. Click on "legiday" to enter the database. This will take you to the Home Page for the Day in the District 2009.

Click on "Legislators". This will take you to a listing of all legislators in the database. Legislators are listed in district order by default. By clicking the headers of the columns you can sort the list by individual field. Also note there are other navigation tools in the header of list of legislators, e.g. alphabetical shortcuts and links to individual legislative houses.

IMPORTANT #1:Always click the on-screen buttons to post information. Simply hitting the Return or Enter key on your keyboard may not work.

IMPORTANT #2: It can take some time for the Legislative Contact to set up the appointment. If the database does not yet list an appointment date and time with your Legislator, please keep checking. Please do not attempt to make an appointment yourself - your legislative contact is already in touch with the Legislator's office and we don't want to cause confusion or appear unprofessional.

IMPORTANT #4: Always click the | Log Out | link when you are finished. If you leave the screen idle for more than 5 minutes you will be automatically logged out. The database can accommodate only 100 simultaneous users.

Some other things to keep in mind:

The emphasis of Day in the District is primarily on California State Assembly and Senate representatives rather than federal elected officials.
You may wish to bring brief handout materials, such as a brochure or newsletter, that highlight the services provided by your library and can be left behind for future reference by the legislator or staff.
Trustees, Commissioners, Board members, Friends, parents, students or other supporters are encouraged to attend. Please ensure that the names and affiliations of all representatives of your library are registered on the appointment website so that the contact person can let the legislator know who will be attending the meeting.
Many legislators are busy working in Sacramento on budget preparation. Legislative contacts may have made appointments with Legislative Aides if the Legislator is not available. These Aides are often very knowledgeable about library issues and are usually interested in learning about more. Many legislators rely on their staff for input and advice, and these meetings can be equally productive.

Day in the District and Legislative Day meetings are an opportunity to highlight the services that are important to residents in your particular district. Many legislators are not aware of the broad range of services we provide and the number of lives we touch each and every day. Participation in this year's meetings is extremely critical to keep our State funding intact as negotiations continue on the budget. As the economic downturn creates additional use of libraries and stresses our resources, it is more important than ever to help our Legislators understand about how this impacts their communities and local residents.

I hope you will be able to participate in this year's Day in the District and Legislative Day meetings. You have a powerful story to tell, and this is your chance to tell it!

Diane Smikahl
2009 CLA Day in the District Coordinator

Posted by claadmin at 1:21 PM

December 31, 2008

Governor Releases 2009-10 Budget

Today, New Years Eve Day, the Governor's Office released his 2009-10 Budget, which was not expected to be released until Friday January 9, 2009. The Budget projects a deficit in the current year of $14.8 billion, which, if unaddressed, will grow to almost $41.8 billion by the end of the 2010 fiscal year. Noting that he has declared a "fiscal emergency," and called Special Sessions of the Legislature November 6th, December 1st, and again on December 19th, the Governor says it is imperative that solutions be enacted immediately, as opposed to waiting until the 2009-10 Budget is approved by the Legislature next summer.
The Governor's proposed Budget solutions include many of his earlier proposals as well as provisions put forth by the Democrats, December 19th, during the Special Session. Expenditure reductions account for about 42% of the proposed $41.8 billion in solutions, followed by new revenues of 34%, "Securitizing the Lottery" to generate $5 billion, or approximately 12%, and another $5 billion or 12% through borrowing. Almost $4.7 billion of the borrowed funds would be through selling Reimbursement Warrants (commonly known as RAW's) in July of 2009.

Most of the reductions would be in the areas of education, health and human services, and the corrections and rehabilitation budget. Savings would also be generated by requiring state employees to take two days furlough per month, beginning February 1, 2009, and the elimination of 2 state holidays. The major revenue proposals include: A temporary 1.5 cent increase in the sales tax through December 2011, broadening the sales tax to appliance and furniture repair, vehicle repair, veterinary services, amusement and sporting events, and golf, instituting a nickel-per-drink tax, adopting a 9.9% oil severance tax, increasing vehicle registration fees by $12, and shifting tribal revenues from transportation to the General Fund. Combined these revenue sources would generate about $17.5 billion over the next 18 months.

Specifically, with respect to Libraries, there has been no reduction to the Public Library Foundation, the Transaction Based Reimbursement Program, or California State Library operations. According to the Budget Document, the Governor does propose a $3.4 million net decrease to the CSL for one-time costs for the Integrated Library System Replacement Project (-$1.3 million), and for costs of relocation during renovation (-$2.0 million). The Budget will continue to provide ($81,000) and ($549,000) respectively for these same programs.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 10:43 AM

December 16, 2008

Update on State Budget Crisis

When the new 2009-10 Legislative Session convened Monday, December 1st, Governor Schwarzenegger declared a "fiscal emergency" and called a new Special Session to deal with the Budget crisis. When the Governor calls a Special Session to deal with a "fiscal emergency" the Legislature has 45 days to adopt the Governor's Budget plan or adopt an alternative.
Negotiations between the Democrat and Republican leaders and the Governor, known as the "Big Five," have gone nowhere, and the Budget crisis continues to worsen daily. The Governor's Department of Finance is now estimating the deficit in the current Budget year at $15 billion, and the upcoming Budget year at $25 billion, for a total of $40 billion, absent corrective action. The plans put forth thus far by both the Governor and the Democrats would address about half of the deficit problem by enacting reductions, along with tax increases in the current year that would carry forward to the Budget year.

Last Monday afternoon, the Senate and Assembly held a rare joint floor session to hear presentations by the State's Treasurer, Controller, Director of Finance, and Legislative Analyst's Office. Treasurer Bill Lockyear stated that major construction projects that were dependant on Bond funding would come to a halt within weeks without a budget solution in place, and Controller John Chiang warned that the state would run out of cash by the end of February. Further, Chiang added that borrowing money from Wall Street through Revenue Anticipation Warrants (RAW's), would be prohibitively expensive because California's credit rating is the lowest in the nation, except for Louisiana.

Friday, key Senate Budget subcommittees met to consider: (a) The Governor's earlier proposals, which include a 1 1/2 percent sales tax increase for three years, and the extension of combined state and local sales taxes to a number of services. (b) Alternatives to the Governor's proposals suggested by the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO), and (c) The so-called "November alternative" or Democratic plan put forth in the last Special Session which called for reinstating the Vehicle License Fee and other revenue increases along with massive cuts in the current year. The subcommittees heard presentations from representatives of the Department of Finance, and Legislative Analyst's Office, and invited public comment on the various proposals.

The presentations and testimony before the subcommittee was for information only, and no vote was taken.

Yesterday afternoon, Assembly and Senate Republicans, who have thus far opposed any tax increases, came forth with their own plan. According to a Senate Republican Caucus release this afternoon, "The Republican Special Session Budget Plan contains $22 billion in solutions - both revenue measures and spending reductions." The plan adopts previous Budget cuts suggested by Democrats, the Legislative Analysts Office, and the Governor's own proposal, and adds additional revenue suggestions ($6.5 billion) and spending reductions ($15.6 billion) to reach the $22 billion. Of the $6.5 billion, the Republican proposal would raise, $6 billion is dependent on obtaining voter approval to: (1) Redirect Proposition 10 funds currently directed for children's health programs ($2.1 billion), and (2) $3.9 billion, also subject to voter approval, would redirect funds from another initiative passed by the voters, Proposition 63, which established funding for mental health programs. The remaining $500 million to reach the $6.5 billion revenue total are the result of previous Democrat proposals transferring money from the Motor Vehicles Account, etc.

On the reduction side, the Republican plan adopts many previous cuts suggested by Democrats and the Governor, and makes additional cuts in K-14 funding, and higher education. The Republican plan also calls for so-called "reform" legislation, unrelated to the Budget, such as extending deadlines for greenhouse gas and engine retrofit regulations, allowing employers to create workweek flexibility, changing laws regarding meal and rest breaks, enacting a strict spending cap on the state Budget, etc. During an Assembly Budget Committee hearing on the Republican plan this morning, Democrats and many education advocates were critical of the $10.6 billion in proposed cuts to K-14 education programs. Others were critical of the plans to divert funds from Propositions 10 and 63, as well as cuts to in home support services and programs for the aged, blind and disabled.

None of the proposals put forth thus far focus on borrowing property taxes as allowed under Proposition 1A. Significantly, the Republican plan does not take away the adult literacy funding as proposed in an earlier plan by the Republicans, nor does it propose cuts to any other library programs.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 2:31 PM

November 7, 2008

Special Session on Budget

Yesterday the Governor formally called another special session of the Legislature to propose a variety of spending reductions and revenue increases, in order to address a projected revenue shortfall of $11.2 billion in the current year. The Governor's proposals include spending reductions totaling $4.5 billion, revenue increases of $4.7 billion, and a $2 billion shortfall would remain. According to the Governor's Budget document, the state will run out of cash in February if no action is taken to reduce spending or increase revenues. In addition to the $11.2 billion problem in the current Budget Year, the Department of Finance projects that revenues will be $13 billion lower in the 2009-10 Budget Year.

The centerpiece of the proposed revenue increase package is a 1.5-cent increase in the sales tax for three years, an oil severance tax of 9.9 percent, expanding the sales tax to additional services, and adding a nickel per drink alcohol tax. Combined, these increases would amount to $4.7 billion. The Governor's proposed reductions in the amount of $4.5 billion include a whopping cut to education in the amount of $2.5 billion, across the board reductions in the UC and CSU Budgets in the amount of $132 million, close to $800 million in cuts to health and human services programs, a reduction of $230 million in state funding for transit agencies, and a savings in state employee compensation in the amount of $320 million by requiring state employees to take a one day furlough each month for the next eighteen months, as well as eliminating two state holidays.

Thankfully, the Governor did not propose any reductions to Library programs in his plan yesterday.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

The Assembly met briefly before noon yesterday to elect its officers for what is now known as the Fourth Extraordinary Session, and the Senate met at 4pm. Both houses then adjourned, with dozens of legislators heading for trips to China, India, Maui and other destinations. In the meantime, the leaders of both houses and the Governor are to meet periodically. In light of the Republican leaders referring to the Governor's sales tax increase as "dead-on-arrival," and Democratic leadership referring to proposed cuts to the poor, elderly, and disabled as a "non-starter," it is unlikely there will be any agreement on the Governor's proposal before the Special Session concludes on November 30th, the last day of the 2007-08 Legislative Session.

COMMISSION TO EXAMINE CALIFORNIA'S REVENUE SYSTEM

In announcing that he was calling a special session to deal with the state Budget crisis, Governor Schwarzenegger also signed Executive Order S-12-08, to create the new bipartisan Commission on the 21st Century Economy to "re-examine and modernize California's out-of-date revenue gathering laws that contribute to our feast-or-famine state Budget cycles." The twelve member commission, which will be made up of six appointees by the Governor, three by the Speaker of the Assembly, and three by the Senate President pro Tem, will suggest changes that will result in a more stable revenue stream, and will report the findings to the Governor and the Legislature by April 15, 2009. The announcement of the bi-partisan commission notes that California's tax system has not been restructured in over eighty years, even though the economy has changed dramatically, and that 50% of California's personal income tax revenues come from just 1% of wealthy residents. Similarly, nearly 15% of the state's revenue comes from taxes from capital gains. Consequently, according to the Governor's office, boom years produce more spending than can be sustained in bust years, putting state services in constant annual jeopardy. Illustrating the volatility inherited in California's current tax system, the Governor's Executive Order cites as an example a 28.1% increase in personal income tax revenue in fiscal year 1999/2000, followed by a 29.5% decrease in personal income tax revenue in fiscal year 2001/2002.

STATE ELECTIONS PRODUCE NEW LEGISLATORS - A FEW RACES "TOO CLOSE TO CALL"

On December 1, thirty-one new legislators in the Senate and Assembly will be sworn in to office to begin the 2009-2010 session. While Assembly Democrats had been actively targeting several vulnerable district races, hoping to edge closer to a two-thirds majority in their house, they were not able to produce the significant gains they had desired. As was expected, two Republican seats in the Palm Springs and San Diego area have turned over to Democrat hands, as the voter registration has been trending more Democratic, and the get-out-the-vote efforts favored Democrats. Assembly District 78 was previously held by termed-out Republican Assemblywoman Bonnie Garcia, and will now be represented by Democrat Marty Block. Similarly, Assembly District 80 was previously held by termed-out Republican Assemblywoman Shirley Horton, and will now be represented by Democrat Manuel Perez. The Assembly District 15 race was a hard-fought battle and another loss for Republicans, which resulted in Democrat Joan Buchanan prevailing over her Republican challenger, in an effort to replace termed-out Republican Assemblyman Guy Houston. Many thought this race would be much closer, but Buchanan prevailed over Abram Wilson 52.9% versus 47.1%.

In one of the most closely watched races this year, Assembly District 30 featured a battle between prominent dueling families from the Central Valley - the Parras and the Florez'. For the last six years, Assemblywoman Nicole Parra, a moderate Democrat, represented this seat, but was termed out this year. Instead of backing the Democratic candidate, Fran Florez, mother of Senator Dean Florez, Parra chose to back the Republican candidate, Danny Gilmore. Danny Gilmore ultimately prevailed in this race, and this victory for Republicans means they pick up a seat here.

At the end of the day, the net gain to the Democrats in the Assembly is, essentially, two new Democratic seats, bringing the total Democrat seats to 50 Democrats and 30 Republicans. In a press release issued by Assembly Speaker Karen Bass she notes, "These gains are an enormous victory for Democrats in a history-making election."

In the Senate, ballots are still being counted in the razor-thin race pitting former Assemblymembers Hannah Beth Jackson (Democrat) versus Tony Strickland (Republican). On Wednesday morning, it was rumored that almost 80,000 ballots in Ventura and Los Angeles County were still not tallied, and thus, it could take some time to call this race.

Of note, there will be seven current or former members of the Assembly moving over to the Senate: Mark Leno, Lois Wolk, Mark DeSaulnier, Loni Hancock, Bob Huff, Mimi Walters, and John Benoit. Senator Tom Torlakson is the only member of the Senate who will be returning to the Assembly for a two-year term. He has indicated that he would like to run for Superintendent of Public Instruction in 2010.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 2:24 PM

October 2, 2008

Financial Literacy Bill Is Rejected by Governor

GOVERNOR VETOES HUNDREDS OF BILLS
Financial Literacy Bill Is Rejected by Governor

Yesterday at midnight was the deadline for Governor Schwarzenegger to sign or veto the hundreds of bills that reached his desk in the final days of this legislative session. To the shock of many legislators and sponsors of legislation, the Governor vetoed hundreds of bills using the identical veto message, which read: "I am returning [this bill] without my signature. The historic delay in passing the 2008-09 State Budget has forced me to prioritize the bills sent to my desk at the end of this year's legislative session. Given the delay, I am only signing bills that are of the highest priority for California. This bill does not meet that standard and I can not sign it at this time." In some cases, the Governor's veto actions defied logic, as many bills passed the legislature unanimously, with no opposition, and others were non-controversial "committee bills." Needless to say, there are a lot of angry legislators and frustrated sponsors of legislation due to the Governor's highly unusual actions.

If you have been following this year's Budget debacle closely, you may recall that in August, the Governor threatened to veto any measure that was sent down to him, until a Budget was signed. As a consequence, the legislature held over 700 bills "at the desk" in the Senate and the Assembly until a Budget agreement was in place. One member of the Governor's staff told a group of us lobbyists several weeks ago, "If the legislature thinks they can send us 700 bills in the final days of the Governor's bill signing deadline, they will be met with 700 vetoes." Since the Budget stalemate was so prolonged, and the Budget bill only signed last week, this left the Governor with only a week to act on the 700 plus bills that the legislature unleashed on his office two weeks ago.

On a few bills, the Governor gave very explicit signing or veto messages, explaining the reasons for his actions. Last night, as one of his final actions, the Governor vetoed AB 2123 by Assemblyman Ted Lieu. The measure would have created a financial literacy clearinghouse of information in the State Controller's Office. The measure was supported by the State Controller's Office, CLA, and various bank and financial groups. In his veto message, the Governor states:

"I am returning AB 2123 without my signature. While financial literacy is not a cure-all for personal economic troubles, expanding educational outreach efforts to improve financial literacy can be helpful for consumers who could be better equipped to make positive financial choices. However, this bill merely duplicates existing services and resources. Many financial institutions and service providers already provide an abundance of information on financial literacy, much of which is available online and otherwise....I prefer to have the appropriate state agencies work collaboratively together and with private sector entities to meet the objective, within their existing resources. For these reasons, I am unable to sign this bill."

In 2008, Governor Schwarzenegger has signed 772 bills, and vetoed 415 bills. This reflects a veto rate of 35%, which far exceeds the rate of any previous Governor. The previous high for a veto rate was approximately 25% by Governor Gray Davis in 2000.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina DiCaro, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 2:32 PM

September 23, 2008

Governor Signs Budget

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

GOVERNOR SIGNS BUDGET

Just before noon today, the Governor signed the 2008-09 State Budget. In his signing message the Governor stated: The 2008 Budget Act resolves he $24.3 billion budget deficit identified in the May Revision. It provides a modest reserve of $1.7 billion this year, but projects a deficit of $1.0 billion in 2009-10. While this budget does not resolve the state's persistent structural budget deficit, it includes a historic budget reform measure that puts California on the path to fiscal stability and avoids borrowing from local governments or transportation funds. The Governor's message went on to state: This budget holds General Fund spending to virtually no growth this year - $103.4 billion in 2008-09 compared to $103.3 billion in 2007-08. The Budget includes a reduction of $850 million General Fund, or one percent below the amounts proposed in the budget bill adopted by the Legislature.

Specifically, with respect to Libraries, the Governor has made reductions to various Library programs of 5 percent from the Budget adopted by the Legislature. The additional 5 percent reduction reflects the original 10 percent reduction proposed in the Governor's January Budget Proposal. The additional 5 percent reflected a decrease in funding for the "English Acquisition and Literacy Program," of $253,000 (from $4,811,000 to $4,558,000). The "Direct Loan and Interlibrary Loan Programs" were reduced by $717,000 (from $10,899,000 to $10,182,000), and the "Public Library Foundation Program" (PLF) was reduced by $718,000 (from $13,642,000 to $12,924,000). Other State Library Programs suffered a similar 5 percent reduction.

Posted by claadmin at 4:26 PM

September 17, 2008

Governor Announces Plans to Veto Budget Plan - Legislature Threatens Override

Yesterday afternoon Governor Schwarzenegger held a press conference in which he discussed his intentions to veto the newly approved Budget plan which passed the Legislature early this morning. He also discussed the potential of the Legislature overriding his veto, to which he explained that in such a case, he would veto hundreds of bills that have been sent to his desk after he carefully evaluates each bill's fiscal impact.
The Governor said "enough is enough," citing insufficient Budget reform and borrowing from small businesses and taxpayers as reasons he will veto the Budget put forth by the Legislature. He explained that "the way the Budget is now, we will need a huge tax increase or to cut education next year."

Earlier today when asked about the potential of a Governor's veto, Senator Cogdill, the Senate Republican leader replied: "I believe that the Legislature will override the veto." Speaker Karen Bass also said that she was confident that the Assembly would override a veto.

The last time that California's Legislature overrode a Governor's veto was in July of 1979, when former Governor Jerry Brown vetoed a bill that granted a pay raise to state workers.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 7:58 AM

September 16, 2008

A Done Deal! Senate and Assembly Pass State Budget

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

No Proposition 1A Borrowing; and Popular State Literacy Program Appears to Have Survived Elimination

After 77 days of the most prolonged, divisive State Budget negotiations in California history, the four top legislative leaders came to an agreement on Sunday afternoon. Keeping details of the terms of the deal close to the vest, the leaders addressed the media and said that they would be taking their proposed package to a Floor vote on Monday, provided they received approval from their respective caucuses. Shortly after 4 p.m. yesterday, both Floors convened for the purpose of vetting the proposal in caucus. Legislators in both the Assembly and Senate commenced Floor sessions after 8 p.m. in order to bring the Budget bill, and corresponding "trailer bills" up on the Floor for a vote.

Continue reading "A Done Deal! Senate and Assembly Pass State Budget"

Posted by claadmin at 11:09 AM

September 9, 2008

Action Needed on State Budget Proposal

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist, Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

After a lengthy debate yesterday afternoon, the Senate rejected the so-called "Senate Republican Proposal" that we alerted you to on September 3. As you will recall, the Senate Republican Proposal recommends reductions to five library programs, and the total elimination/"suspension" of the California Library Literacy Service program. The Senate Republican Proposal was amended yesterday into AB 1793, so that the Senate members could have a legislative vehicle to work from during their Floor debate. Calling it their response to the Governor's August Plan, Senate Republican Leader Dave Cogdill said their proposal was a way to balance the Budget without a tax increase.

One by one, Republican Senators rose to argue against tax increases, while Democrat Senators blasted the plan for its impact on K-12 school funding and health and human services. Senate Budget Committee Vice Chair, Republican Bob Dutton, oddly called it a "get out of town Budget," a term often used when there are no other options available and the legislature resorts to borrowing and other Budget schemes. Senator Jack Scott, the Chair of the Senate Education Committee stated, "You are right about this being a get out of town Budget, but I don't want to burn down half of the town on the way out." At the close of debate, a visibly frustrated Senate President pro Tem, Don Perata, stated, "I am no closer to knowing what (Republicans)want than three months ago. I'm done guessing!" The final speaker, Senator Cogdill, finished with his pronouncement, "As a caucus, we continue to be united that taxes are not a solution."

When the vote was taken, all of the Democrats present voted no and all of the Republicans present voted aye. Members not voting were Senators Ashburn (Republican), Maldonado (Republican), Negrete McLeod (Democrat), Cedillo (Democrat), and Vincent (Democrat). We believe some of the Democrats "not voting" may have been absent from session. The final vote was 13 "ayes" to 21 "noes."

In the Assembly yesterday, the body met for 10 minutes for the purpose of amending SB 1072. The bill will now contain the so-called Governor's August Compromise, which includes a temporary one-cent sales tax proposal, among other things. While it was anticipated that the Assembly would meet this morning at 10 a.m. to take up the Governor's Plan, we received word that the Governor is meeting today, separately, with both the Assembly Democrats as well as the Assembly Republicans. It is thought that perhaps the Assembly decided to postpone action on the Governor's measure until they had time to fully vet his bill with him today in closed-door sessions.

In the meantime, the Assembly wasted no time in amending SB 1087 and incorporating the Senate Republican Proposal into the bill so that they could take it up on the Assembly Floor around 11:30 a.m. today. Republican, Assemblyman Roger Niello, the Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, rose to present the bill, and called it a "compromise Budget. We are happy to continue to negotiate this." Similar to the response in the Senate, the Assembly Democrats were strongly opposed to the proposal, with members calling the intended cuts to education extreme, or noting that the plan proposes painful elimination of services for child abuse prevention and elder abuse. At the close of debate, Assembly Speaker Karen Bass noted, "We are over 70 days without a Budget. We have got to end this blockade...The Budget before you is unacceptable." The bill failed on a vote of 27 to 45.

Immediately after the Senate Republican Proposal failed, Assemblyman Blakeslee made a motion to call for the Assembly to bring the Governor's Budget up on the Floor. That motion failed, due to Democrat opposition. Then, Assemblyman Guy Houston moved that the Assembly should bring up for a vote a stop-gap measure that would allow the state to pay some struggling state vendors during this Budget stalemate. That motion also failed due to Democratic opposition.

While the Senate Republican proposal has failed in both houses, we still believe it is critical to keep the calls, faxes and letters coming in opposition to the library and literacy cuts. Since this is a fluid Budget process, with most of the discussions occurring behind closed doors, it is important to continue to raise our objections to the library language in the Senate Proposal. Your messages are definitely being heard at the Capitol. This morning's Vacaville Reporter features a story entitled, "Budget Plan May Hurt Illiterate." The piece notes, at the end, that Assembly Speaker Karen Bass' office was contacted for the story and her spokesperson, Steven Maviglio states, "The legislative Republicans are so extreme that they are taking no prisoners and calling for massive cuts for just about every service the state offers. This is another example of a penny-wise and pound-foolish cut that's cruel and ineffective."

The Assembly will meet again tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. There is a rumor that there may be interest in an old-fashioned "lock in" of legislators toward the end of this week, if there is no resolution on the horizon. Thus, please keep your calls and faxes coming to the members of the legislative "Big 5" and the two Budget Chairs:

Senate President pro Tem, Don Perata: (916) 651-4009 (phone)
(916) 327-1997 (fax)

Senate Republican Leader Dave Cogdill: (916) 651-4010 (phone)
(916) 327-3523 (fax)

Senate Budget Chair, Denise Ducheny: (916) 651-4040 (phone)
(916) 327-3522 (fax)

Assembly Speaker, Karen Bass (916) 319-2047 (phone)
(916) 319-2147 (fax)

Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines (916) 319-2029 (phone)
(916) 319-2129 (fax)

Assembly Budget Chair, John Laird (916) 319-2027 (phone)
(916) 319-2127 (fax)

Thank you for your help!

Posted by claadmin at 4:26 PM

September 3, 2008

Budget Update - Action Requested

September 3, 2008

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist, Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

BUDGET UPDATE AND NEW THREATS TO LIBRARY FUNDING:
ACTION REQUESTED

I. Session Ends - No Surprise, No Budget

On the evening of Sunday, August 31st, (the deadline for passing ordinary, majority-vote bills), the Legislature concluded the 2007-08 Legislative regular Session. Both the Assembly and Senate remain in session as Sunday's deadline does not apply to fiscal bills such as the State Budget, and related Budget Trailer Bills, as well as urgency measures, all of which require a 2/3 vote. Because of the Governor's previous threat to veto all bills until the Legislature passes a Budget, the Legislative leadership is holding close to 700 bills in "engrossing and enrollment," a final step where bills are properly prepared before going to the Governor. September 30th is the last day for the Governor to sign or veto the bills that were passed by the Legislature before September 1st, and rumors circulate as to what the Governor will do if the Legislature dumps 700 bills on his desk prior to the deadline.

II. Budget Battle Continues - Senate Republican Proposal Recommends Cuts or Suspension of Many Library Programs

For weeks, Assembly and Senate Democrats have been critical of the Republicans for insisting on major Budget cuts to balance the Budget without indicating where the cuts would be made, or offering an alternative Budget plan. Last Friday, Senate President pro Tem Don Perata brought up the Governor's so-called "August Compromise Budget," with a few modifications, on the Senate Floor for an hour-long debate. He said the Democrats would agree to the Governor's proposals for a temporary 3 year sales tax increase, no borrowing from local government, an agreement to "securitize" the lottery, and deeper cuts to schools, child care, and health and welfare, etc. Senator Perata stated, "The only demand we did not give the Governor is the tax cut after the temporary sales tax increase expires." When it was obvious there were no Republican votes, even for the Governor's "compromise," Senator Perata angrily commented: "Eight months later, two months late, and with little to offer; my friends across the aisle, it's your turn. Either vote to approve the compromise that the Governor tells us has your support, or offer an alternative acceptable to the majority and the Governor." Republican Senator Sam Aanestad subsequently asked Senator Perata if the Republicans were to prepare an alternative Budget, would the Democrats allow it to be brought up on the Floor for a vote, to which Senator Perata said: "Yes."

The following day, Saturday, the Senate Republicans, with involvement of Assembly Republicans, called a press conference to introduce their alternative which they call a "no tax increase Budget." Without going into a lot of detail, the Republican plan rejects the sales tax increase, proposes to "securitize" the Lottery for about $2 billion, and takes Redevelopment Agency funds in the amount of approximately $350 million. It also makes substantial cuts, similar to those proposed by the Governor. Like the Governor's plan, it does not borrow from local government property taxes and transportation funds. Additionally, the Republican plan calls for a number of Budget reforms and so-called "economic stimulus" proposals, such as workers schedule flexibility (10 hour days) for employees, many of which are likely to be opposed by Democrats. Governor Schwarzenegger criticized the proposal saying "I applaud the Republicans for proposing a budget and moving the debate forward. That said, their budget is not fiscally responsible because it simply pushes our problems to next year. We were sent to Sacramento to solve problems once and for all - not kick the can down the alley for others to deal with in the future."

Monday afternoon the Senate held a rare holiday Floor session, as Senator Perata has scheduled sessions for every afternoon this week. The Republicans announced that they would not be able to translate their one-page Budget outline into actual Budget bill form that can be voted upon, until Friday. The Assembly has not met since Sunday on the Floor, but the Assembly Budget Committee met this afternoon to hear the so-called Republican Proposal. The committee hearing began amidst confusion as the committee was not working from an actual piece of legislation, and technically they were working off of a Senate working draft proposal. Several Republican members of the Assembly Budget Committee asked why the committee was holding a hearing when the hearing would be more appropriately the purview of the Senate, while another Republican asked, "Did you even invite anyone from the Senate Republicans?" The Chair, Assemblyman Laird, responded that it was the apparent misunderstanding of the Democrats that both Republican Leaders (Senate and Assembly) were endorsing the plan, as "the Assembly Republican Leader had been present at the press conference" where the plan was rolled out, and subsequently endorsed the plan.

The Senate Republican plan contains specific recommendations for cuts or suspension of programs operated by the State Library. In most cases, the Senate Republicans recommend that the majority of the library programs be reduced by 10 percent, not the 5 percent reduction that the Budget Conference Committee ultimately adopted. Specifically, the Senate Republicans are proposing:

Proposes a 10 Percent Cut

Public Library Foundation: The Senate Republicans would cut the PLF by an additional $717,000. If approved, this would bring the total 2008-09 cut to 10 percent.

Direct/ Interlibrary Loans & California Library Services Act: The Senate Republicans would cut the Transaction Based Reimbursement by $717,000. If approved, this would bring the total 2008-09 cut to 10 percent.

Civil Liberties Public Education Program: The Senate Republicans would cut this program an additional $25,000. If approved, this would bring the total 2008-09 cut to 10 percent.

Proposes Suspension of the Program:

English Acquisition & Literacy Program: The Senate Republicans would not only cut the program by $253,000, but they would, according to the Plan, save a whopping $4.558 million by an action to ultimately suspend the program altogether. They go on to state, "English literacy instruction is available from other sources (K-12, adult education, community colleges, community groups, etc.)"

CA Newspaper Project: The Senate Republicans would not only cut the program by $12,000, but they would, according to the Plan, save an additional $216,000 by an action to suspend the project altogether until the state's fiscal condition improves (these are the savings beyond a 10% cut.)

During the hearing this afternoon, the Assembly Budget Committee briefly compared the three Budget proposals (the Governor's, the Democrats', and the Senate Republicans), as it pertains to Proposition 98 and the securitization of the lottery against the education dollars. Several education leaders voiced their opposition to the plan, claiming the complex lottery scheme could result in a $1.9 billion loss to education. The Senate Republican proposal also makes significant cuts that health advocates called devastating and unsafe particularly for Child Protective Services and In Home Health Care programs. At the conclusion of the hearing, Chairman Laird noted that the committee would wait to take any action on the Senate Republican proposal until, likely, next Monday, at which time, they anticipate an actual piece of implementing legislation will be in print.

At this point, as you might surmise, both sides remain far apart, and without new revenues being part of the mix, the proposed cuts to libraries will remain on the table and local property taxes are still at risk.

ACTION NEEDED

Please take a moment today to write the members of the "Big 5" Leadership and urge their strong opposition to the Senate Republican Budget Proposal, and please note in your letters, the devastating effect it would have on the five major library programs listed above.

The Honorable Arnold Schwarzenegger
Governor, State of California
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

The Honorable Don Perata
Senate President pro Tempore
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

The Honorable Dave Cogdill
Senate Republican Leader
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

The Honorable Karen Bass
Speaker of the California Assembly
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

The Honorable Mike Villines
Assembly Republican Leader
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

Note: When you send your letters, will you please cc: the following two individuals who have been strong supporters for these library programs:

Assemblyman John Laird, Chair
Assembly Budget Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

Senator Denise Moreno Ducheny, Chair
Senate Budget Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

Posted by claadmin at 4:40 PM

August 21, 2008

GOVERNOR HOLDS PRESS CONFERENCE ON BUDGET STALEMATE AND ISSUES COMPROMISE PLAN:

"Pain will Become Even Worse If We Delay"

Yesterday afternoon Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger held a quickly called press conference to express his frustration with the Budget stalemate and his perception of the lack of progress during the so-called "Big 5" negotiations. The "Big 5" consists of the Governor, Senate President pro Tem Don Perata, Senate Republican Leader Dave Cogdill, Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, and Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines. Opening the press conference, the Governor quipped, "I hope you all had lunch, because I didn't." The Governor noted that the prolonged Budget stalemate has "caused difficulty in the State and the pain will become even worse if we delay." He added, "It is time for everyone to compromise. The Republicans must step out of their ideological corner and the Democrats must step out of their ideological corner."

The Governor, stated that "California's Budget problem has reached crisis proportions" and then went on to roll out the terms of the compromise proposal entitled "August 2008-2009 Update Proposed Compromise." Key provisions of the compromise include:

1. An Additional $2 billion in cuts beyond the $9.3 billion in reductions adopted by the Budget Conference Committee.

2. An increase in the sales tax of one-cent for three years, after which time the current sales tax would be reduced by 1/4 cent. A requirement that 3% of General Fund revenues would be transferred into the "Budget Stabilization Account" (BSA) until this so-called "rainy day fund" reaches 12.5%. Transfers from the BSA to the General Fund would only be allowed when revenues are insufficient to cover baseline spending increases.

3. Provisions to allow future Governors to make mid-year State Budget cuts.
A proposal to place a ballot measure before the voters to "securitize" the Lottery, which is estimated to provide $5 billion in 2009-10 to pay down General Fund debts or to augment the State's "rainy day fund."

During his press conference the Governor emphasized that his plan did not borrow money from local government and transportation, that it was not a "get out of town Budget," and that it "puts the state on its way to fiscal sanity." When a reporter asked: "You don't like borrowing, but would you do it?" The Governor responded: "We have already borrowed and next year we will have the same (Budget) problem and would have to raise taxes." The reporter pursued: "Is that a 'no I won't do it'?" After a pause, the Governor responded, "I don't like it, no I won't do it."

Subsequent to the release of the Governor's plan, Senate Republican Leader Dave Cogdill, and Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines, expressed their opposition to the proposed sales tax increase. As of today, there is little agreement on a Budget compromise and several Democrats have told us the have cancelled their plans to attend next week's Democratic National Convention. Stay tuned.

Submitted by Mike and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 1:55 PM

July 23, 2008

Budget Update, Action Needed

I. Proposition 1A Borrowing Becoming a Greater Possibility

Recently, you may have read in your local paper, rumors regarding the potential borrowing of property taxes under Proposition 1A, which was passed by the voters in 2004. You will recall that we previously worked very hard to secure the exemption in 2004 for independent special district libraries and so called "ERAF Orphan" (or county dependent) Libraries.

As of this writing, the Democratic leaders in the Senate and the Assembly say that they have no plans for borrowing property taxes, as allowed under Proposition 1A to help balance the state budget. Instead Democrats point to the Budget, as adopted by the Budget Conference Committee, which calls for additional revenues in excess of $8 billion dollars. A portion of the funds would be used to provide a modest 2.4% cost of living adjustment for schools and restore some health and human services reductions made by the Governor. The remainder of the new revenues would replace the Governor's so-called lottery "securitization" fund proposal and the accrual of August and September 2009 tax receipts that would be counted in the 2008-09 budget year ending June 30th. The latter approach by the Governor is being referred by some as a "gimmick."

However, Republicans in both houses have generally objected to any tax increases, and therein lies the dilemma. Both parties have expressed their desire to wrap up the legislative session by August 22 in order for the Democrats to attend the National Democratic Convention, and the Republican Convention follows shortly thereafter. A likely scenario is that the Legislature will resort to a number of compromises, one of which could involve borrowing property taxes under Proposition 1A, even though it is only a short-term budget fix, as the money must be repaid to local governments, with interest, within three years.

II. Where Can You Find $8 or $9 Billion Dollars?

As mentioned above, the Budget Conference Committee proposal, adopted on a 4 to 2 vote, with Republican conferees, Senator Bob Dutton, and Assemblyman Roger Niello voting "no," relies on $8.2 billion in revenues for the 2008-09 revenue year, which include reinstating the 10% and 11% income tax brackets. Democrats also propose suspending the net operating loss carryover for businesses for three years, suspending the indexing of income taxes for one year, etc. If an agreement cannot be reached on these tax increases or "revenue enhancements," where might the legislature find some alternatives?

One proposal that has been floated around, that could be permanent, would be the Legislative Analyst's alternative to "securitizing" the lottery based on current lottery sales which could generate approximately $2.6 billion, and "securitizing" a portion of redevelopment agency funds generating about $2 billion. (Short explanation: In exchange for extending current RDA laws about to expire, RDA's would shift a certain portion of property taxes to schools, thereby relieving the State General Fund of this obligation, and the funds would then be "securitized," i.e. a lump sum payment from Wall Street to be paid back over a number of years). The Governor's accrual method, mentioned above, of counting August and September revenues in June would raise another $2.1 billion. Then, there is borrowing from various sources. Proposition 1A only allows the state to borrow up to 8% of total property taxes, which would be in the neighborhood of $1.8-$1.9 billion. Borrowing from Proposition 42, the gas tax initiative passed by the voters in 2006, could generate another $1 billion or so. One of the considerations for the above options is that the funds generated would not be considered "proceeds of taxes," which unlike the tax increases under the Conference Committee proposal, would not require close to 50% of all new revenues being dedicated to K-14 education under the requirements of Prop 98, the school funding guarantee. As one policy wonk mused, some or all of these options could be used for a "get out of town budget."

III. Contact Your Legislators, Urge an Exemption For Public Libraries

On the possibility that the Legislature may ultimately opt to borrow property taxes, we have been meeting with key legislative staff, explaining that the impact that any sort of borrowing from libraries, particularly libraries largely dependent upon property taxes, would produce significant adverse consequences. We have also provided them with the language that exempted police, fire and property tax dependent libraries from the so called "take away" in 2004.

We need your help to ensure that libraries are exempted if the legislature elects to borrow property taxes via Proposition 1A. We urge you to take a moment and write to your individual Legislators as well as the "Big Four" leaders listed below and request an exemption for libraries from any Proposition 1A shift. It is important to mention in your letters the impact any borrowing would have on your library, especially if you have limited options for replacing the lost revenues, i.e. difficulty borrowing etc. Also, we recommend that you mention the Budget reductions your library has suffered as a result of the cuts to the PLF and TBR in recent years.

The leaders are:

The Honorable Don Perata
Senate President Pro Tem
State Capitol, Room 205
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Dave Cogdill
Senate Minority Leader
State Capitol, Room 3048
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Karen Bass
Speaker of the Assembly
State Capitol, Room 219
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Mike Villines
Assembly Minority Leader
State Capitol, Room 3104
Sacramento, CA 95814

Submitted by Mike and Christina Dillon, Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 12:04 PM

July 9, 2008

News from the Capitol

Budget Conference Committee Wraps Up - What's Next?
Last night the six member Budget Conference Committee wrapped up it's deliberations on the budget. After discussing the several thousand items in the five hundred page budget document for many weeks, all that was left for the committee to do was bring revenues in line with expenditures. The budget was out of balance by more than $8 billion as a result of the Budget subcommittees restoring some of the "draconian" cuts made by the Governor, a bipartisan rejection of the Governor's proposal to "accrue" several billion dollars from the 2009-10 fiscal year into the 2008-09 fiscal year, as well as rejecting the Governor's proposal to "securitize the lottery," which would have provided $5.1 billion in the Budget Year. As the Conference Committee was about to conclude, the Democrats on the committee proposed a plan to generate $8.2 billion in revenues for the 2008-09 revenue year, which included reinstating the 10% and 11% income tax brackets. The Democrats reminded the Republicans that these actions were taken by Governor Reagan in the 1970's and Governor Wilson in the 1990's on a temporary basis (this increase would be permanent.) They also propose suspending the net operating loss carryover for businesses for three years, suspending the indexing of income taxes for one year, etc. The package was adopted with the four Democrats voting aye and the two Republicans voting no. Conference Committee Member Roger Niello commented that there would be no Republican votes for the package and noted "this puts us back to square one."

What happens next is anyone's guess. Earlier today, Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata and Speaker of the Assembly Karen Bass held a press conference to talk about the Conference Committee's actions and the tax increase package. Senator Perata said that the Democratic leaders would work hard during the next seven to ten days with their Republican colleagues with the hope of developing a proposal that could be brought up for a vote before August 1st. Senator Perata stated that if an agreement could not be reached "one way or another a vote would be taken by August 1st." He challenged the Republicans, as did Conference Committee Member Assemblyman John Laird last evening, that if the Republicans were to insist on cuts only, they would need to put the cuts on the table to show where they would be made. Stated Senator Perata: "Saying no is not an option, we are elected to do a job." In the meantime, representatives from the state Controller's office informed a group of us lobbyists at a meeting yesterday that the state was quickly running out of cash and would soon need to resort to borrowing, likely at high rates, because of California's terrible credit rating. In fact, California ranks 49th out of the 50 states in terms of it's credit rating, second only to Louisiana.

Library Construction Bond Bill Sent to Assembly Appropriations "Suspense File" Due To Cost.
This morning Senator Joe Simitian presented his SB 1516, a $4 billion library construction and renovation General Obligation Bond, before the members of the Assembly Appropriations Committee. As you will recall from our previous memos, the Assembly Appropriations Committee evaluates all bills with fiscal implications, and places any bill with a dollar amount in excess of $150,000 on its so-called "suspense file." In early August, the Assembly Appropriations Committee, along with legislative leadership, will prioritize the bills on "suspense" and will choose to send them forward to the Floor for a vote, or hold them in committee - rendering them dead for the year. Due to its $4 billion price tag, SB 1516 was sent to the Assembly Appropriations suspense file this morning.

During his presentation before the committee, Senator Simitian noted that SB 1516 calls for placing a library bond on the November 2010 ballot, which would allow for the state's finances to improve and would give the library community sufficient time to mount a corresponding campaign. The Senator was responding to the committee's fiscal analysis of the bill which stated, "Assuming the $4 billion in bonds are sold at an average interest rate of 5.25% and retired over 30 years, debt service costs for principal and interest would total about $8 billion or $267.7 million annually." The analysis further goes on to ask: "Should the legislature authorize a G.O. bond to be placed on the ballot in 2010 given the state's current fiscal crisis?" The consultant then delineates the financial commitment that the state has made in authorizing $85 billion in bonds since 2000. She adds, "The increase in bond financing has led to a sharp increase in the amount of spending on infrastructure debt service. Specifically, total infrastructure debt service has doubled over the past decade, from $2.5 billion in 1998-99 to $5.2 billion in 2008-09. These costs will continue to rise as additional bonds are sold to fund the November 2006 G.O. bond package and the AB 900 (Solorio) lease-revenue prison construction bond package."

CLA argued that while the bond measure is slated for the November 2010 ballot, if it were passed by the voters, it would also require that library bond board members be appointed, and regulations be developed before any bonds can be sold. In addition, we added that, as was the case with past agreements between the Department of Finance and previous bond authors, the bonds would likely be sold in phases, so as to minimize the impact on the General Fund.

Also present in support of the measure were the lobbyists for the city of Burbank, cities in Marin County, and the California Federation of Teachers. Assemblyman Mark Leno, Chairman of the Appropriations Committee then asked the representative from the Department of Finance to comment. The Governor's representative stated, "We have nothing but respect for libraries. But given the state's fiscal condition...the bill would cost $230 million a year in General Fund debt service." Chairman Leno then asked, "Is the Governor planning any more bonds?" to which Finance responded, "I don't know at this time."

With SB 1516-Simitian currently in suspense, we have been making necessary contacts with legislative leadership. The only chance the bond will have of being released from suspense and sent to the Assembly Floor for a vote at this point in the session, is if there is agreement from legislative leaders and the Governor regarding an overall bond package. In our letter to the Governor, CLA highlights the fact that not only will SB 1516 provide much needed library infrastructure to communities, but it will also stimulate the economy by placing numerous construction jobs into the pipeline throughout the state.

You are encouraged to continue writing the legislative leaders (see July 7 memo for instructions) to ask for their support of SB 1516.

Posted by claadmin at 4:48 PM

July 7, 2008

Budget Conference Committee Acts on Library Issues

Last Thursday afternoon, the Budget Conference Committee, co-Chaired by Senator Denise Ducheny and Assemblyman John Laird, convened to close out a series of non-controversial Budget items before departing for the July 4th holiday. Among those items revisited by the six-member Conference Committee was funding for the Public Library Foundation and Transaction Based Reimbursement.

You may recall from our memo last week, that the Governor, in his January version of the State Budget, suggested a ten percent across-the-board cut to several State Library programs. Specifically, these programs proposed for reduction are the: 1) Public Library Foundation, 2) Transaction Based Reimbursement, 3) Civil Liberties Education, 4) California Newspaper Project, and 5) English Acquisition/Literacy Program. The Conference Committee has been attempting to reconcile whether they should adopt the so-called "Senate Version" of the Budget, which recommends adoption of the ten percent cut to the library programs or the "Assembly Version" which rejects the ten percent reductions. The first time the Budget conferees discussed the library items several weeks ago, they decided to leave the issues "open" as there was not any agreement between the two houses.

However, on Thursday afternoon, the Conference Committee decided on a compromise. Senator Denise Ducheny presented the open library issues and said, "There has been some talk about restoring [the 10% cut to the PLF and TBR.] This is so hard. My thought is a restoration of each at 5%." Assemblyman Laird said, "I would agree to the 5%." Senator Ducheny concurred, "Let's do 5% for all." The action taken by the Conference Committee will reduce the proposed $3,450,000 cuts to the 5 aforementioned programs, including the PLF and TBR, by half or approximately $1,725,000. Thus, instead of the Conferees agreeing to a 10 percent across-the-board reduction (totaling $3,450,000), they have approved a modest restoration, and will suggest cutting the programs by 5 percent or ($1,725,000). The motion passed on a vote of 4 "ayes" to 2 "noes." with the two Republicans (Niello and Dutton) voting against the partial restoration.

You will recall that the Governor's January Budget suggested that the PLF be reduced 10 percent or $1.4 million and the TBR be reduced 10 percent or $1.4 million. As a result of the action of the conferees, these two programs are proposed to be reduced by the Conference Committee by approximately $700,000 each.

While Thursday's action was certainly encouraging for public libraries, during this difficult and unprecedented Budget year, it should be noted that Budget negotiations are far from over. Even if the 5% reduction to the library programs holds, the Governor would still have the authority to "blue pencil," or make further reductions to, the library programs when he signs the Budget.

The Conference Committee has not convened since last Thursday, and they remain "on call of the Chair."

Submitted by Mike and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 3:05 PM

July 2, 2008

News From the Capitol

I. ASSEMBLY EDUCATION COMMITTEE APPROVES LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION BOND MEASURE

Two weeks ago the Assembly Education Committee took testimony, but no actual vote, on SB 1516 by Senator Joe Simitian. SB 1516 is a $4 billion library construction and renovation bond measure sponsored by the California Library Association. If passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor, SB 1516 would appear on the November 2010 ballot. During the hearing on the measure, several of the committee members made positive comments about public libraries, with Chairman Assemblyman Gene Mullin noting that the state was not keeping pace with the overall infrastructure needs of libraries. CLA testified as the bill's sponsor, and joining in support was the California Federation of Teachers. CLA's testimony highlighted the concept of libraries being "the great equalizer" wherein all patrons, from all walks of life have access to important library services and programs. Assembly Education Committee member Assemblywoman Karnette said, "I am so glad you mentioned that. During these difficult financial times, libraries are an important place for people [when resources are limited]." Assemblyman Joe Coto, a member of the Assembly Education Committee, said, "I would like to compliment the author for bringing this bill forward." Four members of the committee asked to be added to the measure as co-authors: Assemblywoman Julia Brownley, Assemblyman Joe Coto, Assemblywoman Betty Karnette, and Assemblyman Jose Solorio.

The measure was then sent to the Assembly Education Committee's so-called "suspense file." You may recall that the fiscal committees in each house - the Assembly Appropriations Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee - are the committees that typically institute a "suspense file." The "suspense file" is a way in which the committee can prioritize measures with cost estimates of $150,000 or higher and then decide, weeks later, to pass the measure on to their respective Floors, or to hold the bill in committee, rendering it dead for the year. This year the Assembly and Senate Education Committees have also created their own version of the "suspense file." Last week, during a hearing lasting well past 8 p.m., the Assembly Education Committee passed SB 1516-Simitian off of suspense on a straight party-line vote of 8 "ayes" to 3 "noes." (Democrats voting "aye" were Chair Gene Mullin, Julia Brownley, Joe Coto, Mike Eng, Loni Hancock, Betty Karnette, Curren Price, and Jose Solorio. Republicans voting "no" were Vice Chair Martin Garrick, Bob Huff, and Dr. Alan Nakanishi). SB 1516 will now head to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration. No date has been set for the hearing as of this writing.

It is important to note that if a single bond or a comprehensive General Obligation bond package is to go forward this year, an agreement will need to be reached by legislative leadership. Thus, it is critical that CLA members contact the Chair and Vice Chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee and the four legislative leaders and the Governor. (In a June 22 article regarding bonds in the Sacramento Bee, the piece notes: "The governor said he is working on an economic stimulus package, that, among other things, would expedite infrastructure bond funding â€˜so that we can get those billions of dollars pumped into the economy.'")

Please take a moment today to contact the following individuals and request their support of SB 1516 by Senator Joe Simitian.

The Honorable Mark Leno
Chair, Assembly Appropriations Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

The Honorable Mimi Walters
Vice Chair, Assembly Appropriations Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Arnold Schwarzenegger
Governor, State of California
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Don Perata
Senate President pro Tempore
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Karen Bass
Speaker of the California Assembly
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Dave Cogdill
Senate Republican Leader
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

The Honorable Mike Villines
Assembly Republican Leader
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

Continue reading "News From the Capitol"

Posted by claadmin at 12:39 PM

June 10, 2008

Space Available at the Advocacy Institute

Space is still available for the Advocacy Institute at ALA's 2008 Annual Conference. "School Libraries in Crisis: Why Everyone Should Care," will take place on Friday, June 27, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Grand Ballroom E/F at the Hyatt Regency Orange County) during the 2008 Annual Conference in Anaheim, California. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Those not yet registered can reserve their spot now through June 20.

"Spokane Moms" Lisa Layera Brunkan, Denette Hill, and Susan McBurney, founders of the Washington Coalition for School Libraries and Information Technology, a grassroots initiative that raised $4 million for school libraries in Washington state, are among the featured guests of the program.
Members from all facets of the library community are encouraged to attend. Attendees will learn how the crisis in school libraries can affect libraries of all types, and how to leverage this crisis into their own advocacy campaigns.

Registration fee is $75 and includes lunch. The I Love Libraries "Advocate's Package" includes limited admission to the ALA Annual Conference (including exhibits, opening general session, and more), and is available for $100. For more information on the "Exhibits Supreme" package, visit www.ala.org/advocacyinstitute. To reserve your space today, please contact Marci Merola, Director, ALA Office for Library Advocacy at 800-545-2433, ext. 2431 or email advocacy@ala.org by June 20.

The Advocacy Institute in Anaheim, California, is co-sponsored by the California Library Association (CLA), the California School Library Association (CSLA), and the American Association of School Librarians (AASL). It is coordinated by the Office for Library Advocacy (OLA), the OLA Advocacy Committee, the Advocacy Institute Task Force and the Library Advocacy Now! Training Subcommittee, in cooperation with the ALA Public Information Office (PIO), the Association for Library Trustees and Advocates (ALTA), the Chapter Relations Committee, the Washington Office's Committee on Legislation, and Friends of Libraries USA (FOLUSA).

Posted by claadmin at 4:01 PM

May 28, 2008

Library Bond Measure Passes Senate Floor

Late yesterday afternoon, SB 1516 by Senator Joe Simitian passed off of the Senate Floor with the bare two-thirds vote required for passage. SB 1516 is a $4 billion library construction and renovation bond measure, which, if passed by the legislature and signed by the Governor, would be placed on the November 2010 ballot. In his opening statement on the Floor, Senator Simitian noted that the last time a library bond was successfully passed by the voters was back in 2000, which leaves a "whole decade" of a backlog of projects. He said that he hoped to continue negotiations regarding the bond, and that the "terms and conditions will be debated. I ask that you move it forward today."

Since bond measures require a two-thirds vote for passage, Senator Simitian needed 27 "aye" votes, which he achieved with the help of all of the Democrat Senators and Republican Senators Dave Cox and Abel Maldonado who also voted "aye." Eleven Republican Senators voted "no," including two members who previously voted for the bond in policy and fiscal committees - Senator Denham and Senator Dutton.

SB 1516 will now move to the Assembly, where it will be scheduled for hearing in a policy committee in several weeks. We will keep you updated as to the hearing date and where you may send letters of support.

Submitted by Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist, Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

Posted by claadmin at 10:25 AM

May 23, 2008

SENATE FISCAL COMMITTEE APPROVES LIBRARY BOND BILL - SENDS SB 1516 FORWARD TO THE SENATE FLOOR

Yesterday afternoon, the Senate Appropriations Committee met to consider its so-called "Suspense File." You may recall that the "suspense file" system is a process that has been implemented by the fiscal committees in each house, to allow the committees to annually prioritize each bill costing $150,000 or more (this year, $50,000). Several weeks ago, SB 1516 by Senator Simitian, was sent to the "suspense file" due to its significant costs. SB 1516 is sponsored by the California Library Association, and the measure seeks to place a $4 billion public library construction and renovation bond on the November 2010 ballot. Due to the state's dismal fiscal picture, we knew there would be a real possibility that the bond measure would be held in committee, despite its 2010 date. However, close to 2 p.m. today, the members of the Senate Appropriations Committee voted to approve SB 1516-Simitian and send the measure on to the Senate Floor.

At the time of the roll call Senator Tom Torlakson, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee asked if it would be a straight party-line vote, or if Republican Committee members wanted to vote in support. Vice Chair, Republican Senator Dave Cox then stated, "I'd like a roll call please." Voting in support of the measure were Democratic Senators: Tom Torlakson, Gil Cedillo, Ellen Corbett, Dean Florez, Sheila Kuehl, Jenny Oropeza, Joe Simitian, and Leland Yee. Republican Senators voting for the bill: Dave Cox and Bob Dutton. The bill passed out on a vote of 10-2.

SB 1516-Simitian will be taken up on the Senate Floor some time in the next two weeks. Please take a minute today to contact your individual Senator(s) via phone or by letter, to encourage him or her to support the library bond when it is before them on the Floor. This bill requires a two-thirds vote of the Senate for passage, thus, your help in contacting legislators of both parties is urgently needed. In addition, if your Senator was one of the members who supported the bond measure in committee today, please call them to express your thanks.

TAKE ACTION! We appreciate your help!

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 7:45 AM

May 14, 2008

Governor Unveils his "May Revision" of the Budget: Library Programs Saved From Further Cuts

This afternoon, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger appeared before the media and legislative leaders to present his "May Revision" of the 2008-09 state Budget. The "May Revise," as it is commonly referred to at the Capitol, allows the Governor to make adjustments to his January Budget proposal, after April tax receipts have been accounted for and the state has a better idea of its fiscal picture. Unfortunately, and as news outlets have been reporting, this year's Budget picture is decidedly bleaker than even the Governor anticipated in January. During his press conference today, the Governor noted that if the legislature had not taken corrective action to reduce the $14.5 billion deficit during the "Special Session on the Budget" in February, there would be a $24.3 billion deficit today. However, even with the legislature's Special Session action, the Governor announced this afternoon that the state continues to face a $17.2 billion deficit.
The Governor stated "The people of California want us to live within our means...They don't want us to raise taxes. They want us to fix our dysfunctional Budget system." In addition to borrowing or shifting significant pots of money from various programs, there are several additional major components to the Governor's "May Revise" proposal. The Governor suggests that the state take a loan against (or securitize) the revenues of the California State Lottery. This proposal assumes that by expanding the games of the lottery, thus increasing revenue, the state would attempt to borrow up to $15 billion over the next three years, to use to shore up the state's General Fund. It is hoped that $5.1 billion would be realized this year to help balance the Budget. This proposal would need to be placed on the November ballot, and would be subject to voter approval. If voters reject the lottery proposal, an automatic 1 percent sales tax increase would be triggered, until June 2011, to pay off the Wall Street "loans."

The loans, secured by the lottery, from Wall Street (to be paid off over 32 years), would be placed in a new "rainy day fund" known as the Revenue Stabilization Fund (RSF). "Moneys in the RSF will only be available for transfers to the General Fund to bring revenues up to the long-term average (e.g. 10 year average) in years with below-average revenue growth, such as 2008-09. The Governor's May Revision proposes to capitalize the RSF in 2008-09 and provide $5.1 billion to the General Fund." (May Revision document)

Reporters asked the Governor, "Isn't this a gimmick?" The Governor responded, "The lottery is a terrific idea. We need to make it perform at a 100 percent level. There are billions of dollars there and I think people will approve (on the November ballot) as the money goes to education and other programs." Mike Genest, the Director of the Department of Finance, who subsequently answered reporters' questions, stated that "mass marketing the lottery would yield better performance." He also emphasized that the lottery proposal and the Governor's "Budget reform" were clearly tied together, "unless we can find $5.1 billion some place else."

Lastly, the Governor notes that he had to make "some very difficult cuts in Health and Human Services" because "it is the second largest part of the Budget." The Governor's "May Revise" makes controversial cuts in programs such as in-home supportive services, which will likely be rejected by Democratic legislators.

Fortunately, programs in the California State Library - such as the Public Library Foundation (PLF), Transaction Based Reimbursement (TBR) and literacy programs, have been saved from additional proposed cuts in the May Revise. You may recall that in the Governor's January version of the Budget, he recommends a ten percent across-the-board cut to the TBR and PLF. The Budget subcommittees in both the Assembly and Senate have been working for the last few weeks to review the Governor's January proposals (and have thus far tabled the PLF and TBR issues until post-May Revise), and will now begin meeting in earnest next week to address the Governor's revised plan. The work of the subcommittees will wrap up by the end of May, and, as is custom, the six member Budget Conference Committee will convene shortly thereafter.

We will keep CLA members apprised as to developments with the State Budget as they occur.

Submitted by Mike Dillon and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyists

Posted by claadmin at 4:31 PM

April 23, 2008

Senate Education Committee Passes Library Bond Measure

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

Several weeks ago the Senate Education Committee took testimony on SB 1516 by Senator Joe Simitian. The measure, which is sponsored by CLA, seeks to place a $4 billion library construction and renovation bond measure on the November 2010 ballot. Offering support of the measure in committee was CLA, highlighted by the testimony of CLA's Legislative Chair, Melinda Cervantes (Santa Clara County Library Director). Also joining in support of the bill was the California Special Districts Association, the California Federation of Teachers, the California School Library Association, and various cities and counties, including Burbank, Sonoma, Merced, and San Jose.

Chairman, Senator Jack Scott, indicated that he was "saddened" that the 2006 bond on the June ballot did not pass, and noted that he hoped there would be a more positive future outlook for library bonds. He acknowledged that SB 1516 would have to be sent to the Senate Education Committee "suspense file" due to its significant cost. You may recall that the fiscal committees in each house - the Assembly Appropriations Committee and Senate Appropriations Committee, for many years, have implemented a so-called "suspense file." Bills costing more than $150,000 are traditionally sent to the "suspense file," which allows the leadership and the committee Chair and Vice Chair to prioritize which bills should go forward given the state's finances. In recent years, the Senate Education Committee, and the Revenue and Taxation Committees have also implemented their own version of the "suspense file."

Last Thursday, the Senate Education Committee took up all of the items on their "suspense file" and voted, on a strong bi-partisan vote of 8 "ayes" to 1 "no" to pass the bill out of committee. Voting in support of the measure were Democrat Senators: Jack Scott, Elaine Alquist, Alex Padilla, Gloria Romero, Joe Simitian, and Tom Torlakson. Republican Senators voting in support were: Jeff Denham and Abel Maldonado. Voting against the bond was Vice Chair, Senator Mark Wyland. Thanks to all of you who wrote letters to the committee, as well as visited with these legislators on CLA Legislative Day!

SB 1516 is now scheduled to be heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee on Monday, April 28. Due to the substantial costs involved with any bond measure, it is assumed that SB 1516 will be sent to the Senate Appropriations "suspense file." The measure would then sit on the "suspense file" until late May, when leadership and the committee Chair and Vice Chair prioritize these measures and send them to the Senate Floor for a vote, or hold them in committee. Please take a moment to write the members of the Senate Appropriations Committee (you will have until mid-May to send your letters), and encourage their support of SB 1516-Simitian.

Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee

Senator Tom Torlakson, Chair
Senator Dave Cox, Vice Chair
Senator Sam Aanestad
Senator Roy Ashburn
Senator Gil Cedillo
Senator Ellen Corbett
Senator Bob Dutton
Senator Dean Florez
Senator Sheila Kuehl
Senator Jenny Oropeza
Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas
Senator George Runner
Senator Joe Simitian (author)
Senator Darrell Steinberg
Senator Mark Wyland
Senator Leland Yee

Sample address:

The Honorable Tom Torlakson
Chair, Senate Appropriations Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

Posted by claadmin at 12:52 PM

April 4, 2008

Library Legislative Day Pre-Registration Ends in One Week

If you have not yet registered for Library Legislative Day in Sacramento on April 16, we encourage you to register in advance. Pre-registration ends one week from today on April 11. As always, we will offer on-site registration at the Sacramento Convention Center for an additional $5. When you register in advance, however, the real savings is time! If you register by next Friday, your pre-printed badge will be waiting for youâ€¦no lines, no waiting!

The quickest way to register is online at www.regonline.com/LibraryLegislativeDay. This is your only option if paying by American Express or Discover Card. If paying by check, please use the form on our website at http://cla-net.org/included/docs/LegDay_Registration.pdf.

After you have registered, you also need to sign up for meetings with your legislators at http://www.legiday.net. To log in, please use "member" as both your account name and password.

Posted by claadmin at 8:02 AM

March 20, 2008

Library Legislative Day 2008 Update

Library Legislative Day
April 16, 2008 in Sacramento

Library Legislative Day in Sacramento will be held on Wednesday, April 16th, 2008 and our network of Legislative Contacts is busy making appointments with legislators to discuss topics of interest to the library community. The 2008 CLA Legislative priorities are:

Rejecting the Governor's 10 percent across-the-board cut to the Public Library Foundation (PLF) in the 2008-09 budget. Note: This fund was already cut $7 million in the 2007-08 Budget. With the Governor's cuts, the program would only receive approximately $13 million out of the $100 million required by statute to fully fund the program.
Rejecting the Governor's 10 percent across-the-board cut to the Transaction Based Reimbursement (TBR) in the 2008-09 Budget. Note: This fund was already cut $7 million or 33% in the 2007-08 Budget. With the Governor's cuts, the program is funded at $10.1 million. Full funding would be approximately $25 million.
Actively monitoring and supporting SB1516, the California Reading and Literacy Improvement and Public Library Construction and Renovation Bond Act of 2010. SB-1516 (Simitian) is a proposed statewide bond bill that would provide $5.6 billion in state monies to fund public library construction and renovation projects.
Supporting the Governor's proposed 2008-09 Budget for State Library operations.
Advocating for funding of public library capital projects including support for possible legislation to lower the threshold for future library bond measures to 55% as was done for school bonds.

Sponsored by the California Library Association (CLA), the California School Library Association (CSLA), and the California Association of Library Trustees and Commissioners (CALTAC), Library Legislative Day is an opportunity for library staff and supporters to meet with your state Legislators and/or their staffs in their Capitol offices.

We will brief Legislators on issues affecting public and school libraries, tell them how libraries are making a difference in the lives of their constituents, and learn more about the current situation in Sacramento.

Registration for Library Legislative Day is a 2-step process.

1. Register with CLA at www.cla-net.org.
A small registration fee will help offset the costs of this event. An important briefing will being promptly at 8:30 AM - please make travel arrangements to ensure you are there on time. You will need to make your own arrangements for accommodations if required.

2. Go to http://www.legiday.net/.
This website will provide appointment dates and times and allow you to add your name to the appointment list for specific legislators.
At the www.legiday.net login screen, enter:
Account name: member
Password: member

After you hit enter you will be taken to a new screen. Click on "legiday" to enter the database. This will take you to the Home Page for the Legislative Day 2008.

The website will be updated as appointments are made. If no appointment has yet been made with your legislator(s), keep checking! The Legislative Contacts are setting up appointments as quickly as possible, but it can be a slow process.

Registration details:
NOTE: If you are a member of CLA, CSLA, or CALTAC, the database should automatically retrieve the contact information on record for you. If the database brings up a list of names and you are not on that list, you may register your name and email address by following the instructions at the top of the screen.

IMPORTANT #1: Always click on-screen buttons to post information. Simply hitting the Return or Enter key on your keyboard may not work.

IMPORTANT #2: Always click the /Log out/ link when you are finished. If you leave the screen idle for more than 5 minutes, you will be automatically logged out. The database can accommodate only 100 simultaneous users.

IMPORTANT #3: It can take some time for the Legislative Contact to set up the appointment. If the database does not yet list an appointment date and time with your Legislator please keep checking.

IMPORTANT #4: Please sign up for appointments by Friday, April 11 to ensure your name can be included in the printed schedule of appointments that is distributed on Legislative Day.

As you plan your participation in Library Legislative Day, here are some things to keep in mind:

Fact sheets are posted online at http://www.cla-net.org/legislation/legday.php. Prior to traveling to Sacramento, you are encouraged to check the CLA website under the heading of Legislation/Advocacy to help you prepare for your meetings with legislators.

CLA has posted information on funding received by each Legislative District for Public Library Foundation (PLF), Transaction Based Reimbursements (TBR) and Literacy Programs at www.cla-net.org/legislation/legday.php.

You may wish to bring brief handout materials (such as a brochure or newsletter highlighting the services provided by your library) that can be left behind for future reference.

Trustees, Commissioners, Board members, Friends, parents, students or other supporters are invited to attend. Please ensure that the names and affiliations of all representatives of your library are registered on the appointment website so that the contact person can let the legislator know who will be attending the meeting.

In partnership with the American Library Association, CLA has acquired Capwiz, a networking tool to keep subscribers apprised of legislative changes. If you are a member of CLA, information will automatically be sent to you. If you are not a CLA member and would like to subscribe, visit http://capwiz.com/ala/ca/mlm/signup/ to sign up.

See you in Sacramento!

Diane Smikahl
Library Legislative Day Coordinator 2008

Posted by claadmin at 3:24 PM

February 20, 2008

Day in the District Report

Thank you to all who participated in CLA/CSLA Day in the District on January 25th and February 1st!

Thanks to your efforts we were able to meet with 69% of State Assembly members and 60% of State Senators or their staff members. Making the connection between the Legislators and libraries in their Districts has been particularly important in this year when library funds are in danger of reduction.

Continue reading "Day in the District Report"

Posted by claadmin at 8:09 AM

January 10, 2008

Governor Proposes Cuts to PLF and TBR

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. GOVERNOR RELEASES 2008-09 STATE BUDGET - CUTS PUBLIC LIBRARY PROGRAMS BY 10 PERCENT

CLA's Letter Writing Campaign May Have Prevented Deeper Cuts to PLF and TBR

Facing a daunting $14.5 billion deficit, at 11 a.m. today Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger released his much-anticipated 2008-09 California State Budget. The Governor began his press conference this morning by stating that he would be proposing a ten percent across-the-board cut to "almost every program," which he called, "very difficult to do. I can see every single person hurt by these cuts." In fact, the Governor notes in his Budget primer, that the ten percent reduction is in effect for "all General Fund departments and programs, Boards, Commissions, and elected offices-including the legislative and judicial branches..." He adds, "While these reductions present numerous challenges to implement, this across-the-board reduction approach is designed to protect essential services by spreading reductions as evenly as possible so that no single program is singled out for severe reductions." Having said that, it is apparent from the list of cuts released today that several areas of the Budget will bear a larger brunt of the reductions, such as health and welfare, education, and parks and recreation. For example, the Governor proposes cuts to the Department of Parks and Recreation that will result in the closing of "48 state parks out of 278 existing parks," cutting Medi-Cal payments to counties by $75.8 million, and a controversial suspension of Proposition 98, with cuts to K-12 education, amounting to $4.4 billion.

Continue reading "Governor Proposes Cuts to PLF and TBR"

Posted by claadmin at 1:29 PM

December 4, 2007

SENATE HEARING ON CALIFORNIA'S FISCAL OUTLOOK

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From The Capitol

Last week, the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee held an informational presentation by Elizabeth Hill, the Legislative Analyst, regarding her recent "Fiscal Outlook" report, with Budget projections from 2007-08 through 2012-13. The purpose of the hearing was to have the Legislative Analyst present her findings to the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee for consideration as the Budget process moves forward.

Continue reading "SENATE HEARING ON CALIFORNIA'S FISCAL OUTLOOK"

Posted by claadmin at 11:02 AM

October 17, 2007

News From the Capitol

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From The Capitol

CAMPAIGN TO RESTORE THE CUTS TO PLF AND TBR BEGIN

In light of Governor Schwarzenegger's recent action in the 2007-08 Budget to slash funding for the Public Library Foundation (PLF) and Transaction Based Reimbursement (TBR) programs, the California Library Association will be launching a campaign to protest the $14 million in combined cuts. CLA will be requesting that the funding be restored in the Governor's January Budget.

For the last few weeks, we have been working with Assemblyman Mike Eng's office to coordinate a response to the Governor's library cuts. Assemblyman Eng is a former library trustee, a co-author of Senator Simitian's library bond measure, and a library supporter. In conjunction with Mr. Eng's staff, we have prepared a letter that Assemblyman Eng will be circulating among his colleagues, in the hopes of adding their signatures to the letter. This letter will then be delivered to the Governor, and among other things states:

"As Governor, you have been a strong leader in efforts to promote quality after-school programs that assist our K-12 student population. As such, we know that you would also recognize the role that public libraries play as a committed partner and extension of the K-12 learning environment.

On behalf of my legislative colleagues who have a strong appreciation for the critical importance of public libraries, I would respectfully request that you consider the restoration of the $14 million to the Public Library Foundation and the Transaction Based Reimbursement program when you craft your January 2008 Budget."

Since Assemblyman Eng's office will now be sending the letter around to a vast array of legislative offices in the Capitol, please take a moment today to either:

1) Write the Governor directly, and express your disappointment/concern/frustration, etc. with the dramatic cuts to the PLF and TBR programs. Please explain how your library will be specifically impacted by the cuts. It is critical that you identify certain programs or services that will suffer or be eliminated entirely as a result of the two reductions. (e.g. you will not be able to purchase books and magazines for a year, the after-school "Homework Help Program" will cease functioning, literacy programs will be cut back, etc.) After you send your letter to the Governor, send a copy of that letter to your legislator, and ask him or her to sign on to the Assemblyman Eng letter.
2) If you are unable to do a letter to the Governor, merely call your legislator and ask him or her to sign on to the Assemblyman Eng letter.

GOVERNOR VETOES AB 1030-CABALLERO: LITERACY PROGRAMS FOR AT-RISK YOUTH

Late last week, the Governor vetoed AB 1030 by Assemblywoman Anna Caballero, which would have expanded the California Library Literacy and English Acquisition Services Program to services targeted to young adults, 16 years of age and over, who are not enrolled in school. The program would allow these youths to receive adult basic literacy tutoring and related services. Recent research by the State Library indicates that only 618 youths, ages 16-19 were served by this program in 2005-06. The author intended for the measure to heighten awareness regarding the need to serve this critically underserved population.

The Governor, in his veto message states:

"I am returning Assembly Bill 1030 without my signature.

While I support the California Library Literacy and English Acquisition Services Program, the changes proposed in this bill are unnecessary. Current law already authorizes the provision of English literacy service to adults and youth who are not enrolled in school. This bill would simply authorize the provision of such services to a specific subgroup of the same youth population.

In addition, I do not support repealing the requirement that, as a condition of funding, a local jurisdiction maintain the prior year's level of private support. Eliminating the requirement for this private support will result in either a decrease in services and/or create cost pressure on the General fund to backfill any loss of such funds.

For these reasons, I am unable to sign this bill."

You may recall from our July report on this measure that the Senate Education Committee consultant had recommended that the private local support "maintenance of effort" language be stricken from the bill, arguing, "Regardless of the effort exerted, a local jurisdiction may not be in a position to compel private donations, contributions, or grants. Is it reasonable to hold a local jurisdiction responsible for maintaining the provision of private funds over which it has no control?" The Senate Education Committee members, as well as the author and CLA, agreed with the consultant's recommendation. Unfortunately, the Governor had a difference of opinion regarding this language.

Posted by claadmin at 3:00 PM

August 24, 2007

Governor slashes PLF and TBR

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

GOVERNOR SIGNS BUDGET: MAJOR DISAPPOINTMENT FOR LIBRARIES AS GOVERNOR SLASHES PLF AND TBR

Shortly after noon today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, flanked by Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez and Senate Republican Leader Dick Ackerman, signed the 2007-08 State Budget in the rotunda of the State Capitol. You will recall that the Budget bill was 52 days late, and relations between the two houses and the Governor were significantly strained during the contentious negotiations. At the bill signing, the Governor noted that the "Budget has a zero deficit. That is an extraordinary accomplishment." Unfortunately, the attempt to obtain a "zero deficit" meant that an additional $700 million was cut, by the Governor, from the Budget version that was sent down to him. Suffering significant cuts today were two major library programs: the Public Library Foundation and the Transaction Based Reimbursement Program.

Last year, the Governor, in his May Revise and subsequent Budget, approved a $7 million augmentation to the Public Library Foundation, bringing the total baseline figure to $21.3 million This year, the Budget Conference Committee approved a $1 million augmentation to the fund. However, the Governor has chosen to slash not only the $1 million augmentation for 2007-08, but in addition, he is taking away the $7 million augmentation he provided last year. In his veto message he states:

"I am deleting the discretionary $1,000,000 legislative augmentation to the Public Library Foundation. This reduction is necessary to limit program expansions and help bring ongoing General Fund expenditures in line with existing resources. In addition, I am deleting $7,000,000 in order to further build a prudent reserve in light of the various uncertainties in revenues and spending that we face this year."

The Governor's reduction today brings the new PLF baseline down to $14.3 million.

Similarly, you may recall that the Governor, in his May Revise and subsequent Budget, approved a $7 million augmentation to the Transaction Based Reimbursement program last year. Today, the Governor inexplicably cut $7 million from that program as well. His veto message states:

"I am deleting $7,000,000 for Direct Loan and Interlibrary Loan services. This reduction is necessary in order to further build a prudent reserve in light of the various uncertainties in revenues and spending that we face this year."

We do not know how this reduction will now affect the federal match component for this program, and we will be working with the State Library. The Governor's reduction brings the new TBR baseline down to $11.6 million.

We are deeply disappointed in the Governor's actions today, particularly in light of the inconsistent message, wherein he funded both of these programs last year in the approximate same amounts that he cut this year. These programs were just beginning to recover from the devastating cuts that were made to the PLF and TBR under the previous Governor, Gray Davis. One Budget staff member, who we worked with throughout the year, called immediately after seeing the major cuts and commented, "You have my anger, empathy, and sympathy."

NOTE: The CLA office is interested in obtaining examples from you of what these drastic cuts will mean to your library. Please email CLA with your comments ASAP. In addition, we would encourage you to share this story with your local newspapers and media outlets. Further, please pass this memo along to your locally elected officials, in the event they wish to prepare a media alert.

Posted by claadmin at 1:50 PM

August 21, 2007

State Budget Finally Passes

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

This afternoon, the Senate passed the State Budget and accompanying "trailer bills" that were previously passed by the Assembly on July 20th. Late yesterday, Senate and Assembly leaders met with the Governor in hopes of reaching an accord, and then both Houses scheduled and rescheduled Floor Sessions until 10:00 p.m. last night. This morning, an agreement was reached on a number of pending details, which paved the way for Senate Republican Minority Leader, Dick Ackerman, to provide the 27th necessary vote for passage. In casting his vote, he was joined by the 25 Democrats, and Republican Senator Abel Maldonado, who earlier committed to voting for the Budget.

As one long-time consultant commented to us this afternoon, "Rarely has passage of a Budget been postponed for so long over so few differences."

The Budget and corresponding "trailer bills" are now on their way to the Governor for action. You will recall that the Budget contains a $1 million augmentation for the Public Library Foundation (PLF), which would bring the baseline figure for the fund up to $22.3 million. However, as a condition of the Budget's passage, the Senate Republicans have asked Governor Schwarzenegger to use his so-called "blue pencil" to veto up to $700 million in additional spending in the Budget bill. We will keep you posted as to the status of the PLF once the Governor acts.

Posted by claadmin at 4:41 PM

July 10, 2007

News From the Capitol

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

I. BUDGET STALEMATE - LEGISLATIVE LEADERS CLAIM TO BE "FAR APART"

Several weeks ago, the powerful six member Budget Conference Committee, who is charged with reconciling the differences between the Governor's Budget, the Senate version of the Budget, and the Assembly version of the Budget, concluded their work. While the Conference Committee was able to act upon several hundred pages of Budget action items in its 300 page binders, they were unable to bring about decisions on some of the outstanding issues in the larger Budget debate. The large-scale decisions now fall to the legislative leaders who are termed, "The Big Five." The "Big Five" consists of Governor Schwarzenegger, Senate President pro Tem Don Perata, Senate Republican Leader Dick Ackerman, Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez, and Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines. As you are aware, the state began its fiscal year without a Budget on July 1, and leaders are now locked in a debate over how to deal with the state's "structural deficit" which is projected to be around $5 billion next year. Republicans want to reduce the deficit by bringing expenditures more in line with revenues, which necessitates Budget cuts. Democrats, on the other hand, want to protect important proposals such as funding for education, health and welfare, and the correctional system.

The "Big 5" convened a meeting yesterday, which did not produce any further movement. In fact, Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines told the Sacramento Bee, "We are $2 billion apart." Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez is warning leaders to be ready to sacrifice part of the legislature's summer recess if a deal is not made on the state Budget by July 20.

You will recall that the Budget Conference Committee approved a $1 million augmentation to the Public Library Foundation (PLF), which, while not significant in its dollar amount, was seen by many in the legislature as a "symbolic move" to indicate the importance of the program during a tight Budget year. If the Governor approves the $1 million augmentation when he signs the 2007-08 Budget, the baseline figure for the PLF will be $22.3 million.

II. AB 1030-CABALLERO: LITERACY PROGRAMS FOR AT-RISK YOUTH

AB 1030 by Assemblywoman Caballero, the former Mayor of Salinas, is part of a multiple bill package that she has titled her "Gang Prevention Kit" in order to assist at-risk youth. Specifically, AB 1030 would expand the California Library Literacy and English Acquisition Services Program to services targeted to young adults, 16 years of age and over, who are not enrolled in school. The program would allow these youths to receive adult basic literacy tutoring and related services. Recent research by the State Library indicates that only 618 youths, ages 16-19 were served by this program in 2005-06. The author believes this bill will create a better sense of awareness regarding the need to serve this critically underserved population.

CLA is in support of the measure, which recently had a hearing in the Senate Education Committee. The Education Committee Consultant recommended amendments that would strike language requiring that private fund contributions for the program be maintained at the same level as the year prior. The analysis states, "While it seems reasonable to require the local jurisdiction demonstrate a continuing fiscal commitment in order to access state funds, current law also requires a commitment regarding private funds. Regardless of the effort exerted, a local jurisdiction may not be in a position to compel private donations, contributions, or grants. Is it reasonable to hold a local jurisdiction responsible for maintaining the provision of private funds over which it has no control? Staff further recommends that the certification regarding maintenance of the level of private support be deleted from current law." The author agreed to accept the consultant's recommendations.

Earlier in the year, the author had been hopeful that she could secure a $2 million appropriation for the bill. However, due to the state's difficult fiscal climate, the bill does not contain additional funding, but rather, asks that the program be funded using existing resources within the current program. It is the author's intent to seek funding for the at-risk youth literacy program in future years.

The measure will be heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee on Monday, July 16. If you have an interest in AB 1030-Caballero, please contact the Chair and Vice Chair of the Committee via phone to indicate your support.

Senator Tom Torlakson, Chair (916) 651-4007
Senator Dave Cox, Vice Chair (916) 651-4001

Posted by claadmin at 5:16 PM

June 21, 2007

Budget Conference Committee Approves Additional PLF Funding

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From The Capitol

BUDGET CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPROVES AN ADDITIONAL $1 MILLION FOR PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION

Yesterday afternoon the powerful six member Budget Conference Committee met to consider approximately 100 remaining items that have yet to be finalized as part of the State Budget negotiations. You will recall from our previous memos that the Budget Conference Committee is charged with reconciling the difference between the Senate Version of the Budget, the Assembly Version of the Budget, and what the Governor proposed in his January Budget and May Revision. On Tuesday, the Conference Committee voted to augment the Public Library Foundation by $1 million, which, if approved by the Governor when he signs the Budget, would bring the PLF total baseline to $22.3 million.

Almost one month ago, Senators Joe Simitian and Jack Scott, as members of the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance, approved a $2 million augmentation to the PLF and forwarded their recommendation to the Budget Conference Committee. The Assembly Budget Subcommittee suggested no increase to the PLF baseline, which forced the PLF issue into Conference Committee to be resolved. Due to the state's tight fiscal condition right now (primarily due to a dip in personal income tax receipts and the lagging housing market), we knew it would be a challenge even to hold on to the $2 million augmentation.

On June 1 the Conference Committee began meeting regularly, and would attempt to "close" items where there was consensus. The first time the conferees addressed the PLF item, Budget Conference Committee Co-Chair Assemblyman John Laird asked if action on the item could be deferred. Senator Denise Ducheny, the other Co-Chair of the Conference Committee then added, "That is fine, but I would like to speak to this. This is particularly frustrating for us (the Senate). In the 1990's we were working to get the fund up. We were at $56 million in 2000, and then we were back down to $21 million last year. This is not helpful to the folks in our communities who are trying to learn to read. We have been creeping back up in recent years, but I want to make some progress here." The Conference Committee passed on the item and it was tabled until June 13. On June 13, the conferees again tried to close the item but were not ready yet, and hinted at "splitting the difference" between the two houses, which would be $1 million. Then yesterday the conferees again raised the issue of funding for the PLF with the Chair announcing that the committee was prepared to reduce the Senate Version by $1 million and leave a $1 million augmentation for the fund. Senator Dennis Hollingsworth asked the Department of Finance, "What is in the Governor's May Revise?" The representative for Finance responded, "The base for the program is $21.3 million. We didn't provide funding beyond the base." The Conference Committee then moved to approve the $1 million augmentation and it passed with all four Democrats voting "aye" and the two Republican members voting "no."

The Conference Committee is currently unable to close the remaining large scale items before them which include funding for Proposition 98, discussion on several major water issues related to the water bond implementation, as well as prison reform/corrections. The so-called "Big 4," consisting of Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez, Senate President pro Tem Don Perata, Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines, and Senate Republican Leader Dick Ackerman, met yesterday to try to come to agreement on the major areas of contention. Also clouding the discussions is the need to address how the tribal compacts, that were previously approved by the Governor, will be implemented, as union groups are demanding that provisions to allow for the protection of casino workers be included in the compacts. Rumors abound that there may be a push for a resolution soon on all of these items so that a Budget could be on the respective Floors of each house by the June 30th deadline.

Posted by claadmin at 7:14 AM

June 1, 2007

Library Construction Bond and Homework Help Bills Held

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News from the Capitol

I. DIFFICULT DAY IN FISCAL COMMITTEES FOR LIBRARY ISSUES:
LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION BOND AND ONLINE HOMEWORK HELP BILLS HELD

Yesterday afternoon, the Senate and Assembly Appropriations Committees took up their so-called "suspense file," a process which allows the fiscal committees to prioritize legislation, with fiscal implications to the State, exceeding $150,000. The Assembly Appropriations Committee heard approximately 600 bills on their "suspense file," (593 to be exact) totaling more than $7 billion. The Senate Appropriations Committee considered close to 400 measures with similar cost estimates. The "suspense file" vote is always much anticipated, and lobbyists pack the hearing rooms to determine if their legislation will be considered "dead" for the year, or will move forward to the respective Floors of each House. Because Democrats dominate each House, more bills are passed by Democrat authors than Republican authors, and the majority of bills that are passed by the Committee are passed with all Democrats voting "aye" and all Republicans voting "no." In fact, in order to avoid calling the roll on each bill, and to expedite the process, the Assembly has instituted a process of votes by an "A" roll call, meaning all Democrats and Republicans voting "aye," or a "B" roll call, meaning all Democrats voting "aye" and Republicans voting "no." CLA has been actively supporting three bills that were considered yesterday by the Assembly as well as the Senate Appropriations Committees. Here is the information regarding their disposition:

SB 156-SIMITIAN: Library Construction and Renovation Bond Bill - Held In Committee

Yesterday the Senate Appropriations Committee decided to hold SB 156 by Senator Joe Simitian, in committee, instead of sending it to the Senate Floor for vote. Senator Simitian expressed his disappointment over the decision by the committee to hold the bill on "suspense." Subsequent to the hearing, the Senator said that he "will do anything he can, and is actively working, to ensure that a library bond moves forward as soon as possible." He further stated that he "is as committed, as ever, to library construction funding."

For now, SB 156 remains the possession of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and the legislature's focus will now shift to passage of the State Budget and to negotiations over the numerous health care bills. We will keep you posted regarding any developments as the session continues.

AB 1233-Galgiani: Online Homework Help - Held In Committee

AB 1233-Galgiani, is sponsored by Tutor.com and would provide $3 million in additional state General Fund monies for the purpose of requiring the State Librarian to enter into a contract with an entity to establish and maintain a program of online homework assistance that is free of charge through public libraries in the state. Due to the increasingly difficult state Budget picture, the bill was held in committee due to its large costs.

AB 1030-Caballero: At Risk Youth Literacy - Approved

AB 1030-Caballero is part of the author's "Gang Prevention Tool Kit" to address the problems of at-risk youth, gangs, and literacy. Specifically, the bill expands the California Library and Literacy and English Acquisition Services (CEALS) program to include services to young adults 16 years of age or over who are not enrolled in school to provide adult basic literacy tutoring. The bill also deletes the local certification requirement to provide the same level of fiscal support in the prior fiscal year. The bill will now head to the Assembly Floor for vote next week.

II. BUDGET CONFERENCE COMMITTEE TO BEGIN THIS AFTERNOON

This afternoon the powerful six member Budget Conference Committee will begin holding hearings to consider and reconcile the differences between the Governor's Budget, the Senate Version of the Budget, and the Assembly Version of the Budget. The Conference Committee is expected to begin working through the weekend and during the next two weeks in an attempt to have a Budget compromise ready by the June 15th constitutional deadline.

As mentioned in our previous memo, the Senate Budget Conferees are: Senator Denise Ducheny, Senator Dennis Hollingsworth, and Senator Mike Machado. On Tuesday, Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez announced his conferees for the Assembly, who will be: Assemblyman John Laird, Assemblyman Roger Niello, and Assemblyman Mark Leno. The Public Library Foundation will be subject to consideration by the Conferees, as there is a dollar difference between the two houses relative to the action they took on the PLF. The Senate is recommending that the PLF be augmented by $2 million, bringing the potential baseline funding level to $23 million. The Assembly took no action on the PLF. As mentioned previously, both houses rejected the Governor's proposed $52,000 cut to the PLF in order to fund the State Library's Integrated Library System Replacement Project.

Please take a moment today to write or call the members of the Budget Conference Committee and urge their strong support for:
BUDGET ITEM NUMBER 6120-221-0001: PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION: SUPPORT FOR SENATE VERSION.

Sample address:
Assemblyman John Laird, Chair
Budget Conference Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

Assemblyman John Laird (916) 319-2027
Assemblyman Roger Niello (916) 319-2005
Assemblyman Mark Leno (916) 319-2013
Senator Denise Ducheny (916) 651-4040
Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (916) 651-4036
Senator Mike Machado (916) 651-4005

Posted by claadmin at 3:10 PM

May 23, 2007

News from the Capitol

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

I. SENATE BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE PROTECTS PLF - ADDS $2 MILLION

Last Friday, the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance Number 1 considered the State Library budget, which includes taking action with regard to the Public Library Foundation. As you may recall from our previous memo, the Senate Budget Subcommittee rejected the Governor's May Revision, which called for a $52,000 reduction to the Public Library Foundation in order to fund the State Library's request for an upgraded Integrated Library System Replacement Project. Instead, the Senate Budget Subcommittee supported CLA's request to reinstate the dollars to the PLF and create a separate Budget line-item for the State Library's ILS item. The subcommittee then left the issue of consideration for additional funding for the PLF "open" until after the May Revision had been released and a better determination of the state's fiscal picture could be determined.

On Friday, the Senate Budget Subcommittee voted to support a $2 million augmentation to the PLF. The motion received positive comments from both Senator Joe Simitian, a member of the subcommittee and author of CLA's library construction bond, and Senator Jack Scott, the Chair of the subcommittee. Senator Scott noted that the subcommittee has always been a strong supporter of the libraries and added, "I feel I have been a strong advocate for the PLF." Senator Simitian then echoed the Chair's comments. The motion passed with 2 "ayes" and Senator Bob Margett abstaining. The Department of Finance representative cautioned, "We will more than likely have concerns with the augmentation." We went up on behalf of CLA and thanked the subcommittee for recognizing the continuing need. We noted that while we recognize it is a tight Budget year, "every little bit helps."

Yesterday afternoon, over in the Assembly, the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance also considered the PLF issue and, like the Senate subcommittee, they voted to restore the $52,000 to the PLF that the Governor proposed reducing. However, the subcommittee did not offer any additional augmentation to the PLF.

As is custom, when there is a difference between the so-called "Senate Version" of the Budget and the "Assembly Version" of the Budget, as there is with the PLF ($2 million augmentation Senate, $0 augmentation Assembly), the issue is sent into Budget Conference Committee negotiations. The PLF will be one of several hundred items where there needs to be a reconciliation between the differing dollar amounts between the two houses. The Budget Conference Committee will begin meeting in approximately two weeks and will work through the summer to produce a Budget document to present to the Governor for signature. The Senate announced its Budget Conference Committee conferees late yesterday. They are: Senator Denise Ducheny (Chair of the Senate Budget Committee), Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (Vice Chair of the Senate Budget Committee), and Senator Mike Machado. The Assembly conferees have yet to be named, but more than likely they will be Assemblyman John Laird (Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, Assemblyman Roger Niello (Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee), and Assemblyman Mark Leno (Chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee.) When these names have been made official in the Assembly, we will alert you and will ask library supporters to write on behalf of the Senate Version of the Budget.

II. LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION BOND WILL HAVE DETAILS WORKED OUT ON "SUSPENSE"

On Monday, the Senate Appropriations Committee heard SB 156 by Senator Joe Simitian, which is a $4 billion library construction and renovation bond measure. Due to its enormous fiscal costs, the committee placed the bill on its so-called "suspense file." The "suspense file" is a method by which the committee prioritizes all bills with fiscal implications of $150,000 or greater and decides whether to "hold the bill in committee" or "pass it forward" to the Senate Floor. The "suspense file" will likely be taken up late next week.

In his opening remarks, Senator Simitian (a newly appointed member to the committee, as of last week), told the members, "There is a current need of over $6 billion, and 75 percent of all project applicants were denied funding during the last bond due to lack of dollars." He then noted that he intends to take amendments to change the date that the bond would appear on the ballot from the February Primary to November 2008. He also added that there were some issues that he wanted to address while the bond was on the "suspense file," including accepting amendments that would allow the Bond Board to rescind grants for non-performance and issue them to another qualified applicant, as well as include an amendment to set-aside a dollar amount in order to fund the "Outstanding" projects from Cycle 3. Senator Torlakson, the Chair of the committee, stated, "There has been a huge pent-up need for a long time. I would like to ask you to consider giving some projects priority." Senator Simitian offered, "The Outstanding category is the logical candidate. They are the top ranked and so that can be relatively managed. However, there is $329 million in the Very Good category. I don't want to make a commitment that we can't keep." The Senator's comments are in regard to the over-riding issue of what will the Senate leadership, Assembly leadership, and Governor allow the over-all bond amount to eventually be, knowing that the state is facing tight bonded indebtedness capacity as each new bond is passed. For example, the fiscal committee analysis notes the bond amount at $4 billion - but a total committed amount of $7.454 billion for principal and interest over 30 years. The analysis states, "Staff notes that California voters have authorized $121.8 billion in general obligation bonds since 1970 and two-thirds of that amount has been authorized since 2002. According to estimates prepared by the Legislative Analyst's Office, the state's General Fund debt service costs are expected to rise from $4.7 billion in 2007-08 to $7.5 billion in 2014-15. If ultimately approved by the voters, this measure would increase those costs. Each dollar spent paying debt service is a dollar that could have been spent on other programs." (Senate Appropriations Committee analysis.)

As CLA is the sponsor of the measure, we testified in support and noted that library usage continues to increase and communities demand library services. We were joined in support by the California State Association of Counties, the lobbyist for Sacramento county and city, and the lobbyist for the city of Burbank. Senator Torlakson thanked all present and also thanked all of the legislators who have previously worked to support library bonds, including committee member Senator Ellen Corbett.

At this time, CLA and Senator Simitian are scheduling a series of meetings with key leaders and legislators to garner support for the bond and encourage a high dollar amount remain in the bond.

Posted by claadmin at 3:43 PM

May 14, 2007

News from the Capitol

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

GOVERNOR RELEASES "MAY REVISION" OF BUDGET - NO CHANGE TO PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION

Shortly after 1 p.m. today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger released his May Revision of the Budget, which he noted is "fiscally responsible, fully funds education, and continues to pay down the debt." The so-called "May Revise" allows the Governor and his Department of Finance to make revenue and programmatic adjustments to the January Budget that was released earlier this year. At a press conference held in the Secretary of State's massive auditorium, the Governor stated that despite the housing slump, "revenue projections have come out right on target." However, the Governor cautioned, "California's Budget still lives on a razor's edge" and argued that it is difficult to make reductions or programmatic changes when "90 percent of the Budget is already committed." (e.g. Proposition 98, union agreements, etc.) He has proposed a series of reductions in the Budget, with his Budget primer reading: "Consequently, the only way to hold down spending is by approving very few discretionary spending increases while changing state law to reduce the cost of programs. The Governor's Budget proposed legislation to reduce various state programs for a total savings of $2.5 billion. The May Revision proposes additional program reductions for $430 million in additional savings, of which $230 million will be in the budget year, with the remainder occurring in the current year."

Despite the above referenced cuts, the Governor made no changes in the State Library budget, including the Public Library Foundation, which he continues to fund at the January Budget baseline level of $21.3 million. Since the Governor has not proposed an augmentation to the PLF, it will be necessary for the Assembly and Senate Budget Subcommittees to include an augmentation during their deliberations in the coming days if the PLF is to receive increased funding this year. As you may recall from our previous memo, the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance restored the $52,000 cut to the PLF, which was intended to fund the State Library's Integrated Library System Replacement Project. The subcommittee preferred that funding for the State Library project come from other non-Proposition 98 sources, instead of using the PLF as the annual funding stream. In addition, the Senate Budget Subcommittee will be revisiting the idea of providing an augmentation to the PLF when they meet later this week or next week. The Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance expressed initial concern over the $52,000 proposed reduction, but took no action - choosing to defer action until after the May Revise was released. Similarly, they have not made any decision regarding whether or not to augment the PLF.

We will alert you when the subcommittees take final action on the Public Library Foundation and related library items.

Posted by claadmin at 5:08 PM

May 11, 2007

Library Bond Bill to be Amended

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

I. LIBRARY BOND BILL TO BE AMENDED TO INCLUDE PRIORITY FUNDING FOR "THIRD CYCLE APPLICANTS"

SB 156 by Senator Joe Simitian is a $4 billion library construction and renovation bond measure that is sponsored by the California Library Association. The measure recently passed the Senate Education Committee, and is currently awaiting a hearing in the Senate Appropriations Committee, scheduled for Monday, May 21.

CLA lobbyists and the CLA "Bond Task Force," Chaired by CLA Legislative Chair, Melinda Cervantes, have been actively engaging in strategy discussions over the last month with Senator Simitian and his staff. Specifically, the Senator has been approached by several legislators who are arguing that SB 156 should contain a set-aside or priority funding for the so-called "Third Cycle Applicants" who did not receive funding during the 2000 construction bond grant awards. These legislators include a key Republican who strongly supported the past library bonds, and a new Democrat legislator who indicated it would be difficult for him to support the bill without the set-aside for "Third Cycle" projects. Senator Simitian has weighed the issue, and, with the concurrence of the CLA Task Force, a determination was made to craft amendments for SB 156 that will assist eligible libraries from the 2000 bond. Specifically, the bill will be amended to:

Include a $500 million set-aside to grant priority funding to viable and eligible Third Cycle "Outstanding" and "Very Good" projects that were not funded in 2000.

Include language that will lift the state match cap from $20 million to $30 million to allow for inflation adjustments.

Include an opportunity for library projects to recalculate their original application to allow for cost inflators, but the adjustments shall "not affect a change in the scope, scale, or quality of the project."

The 2000 bond regulations would govern the administration of these funds.

Any additional funds contained in the bond would be awarded on a competitive basis under new regulations developed by the Bond Board.

The CLA Task Force, as well as the Senator, felt that there were two other large issues that needed to be addressed in amendments, in addition to the above language. Amendments being incorporated into the bill will now give authority to the Bond Board to withdraw a grant award for noncompliance and award the grant to another applicant library jurisdiction. Lastly, the bill will also be amended to change the date of the ballot that the bond will appear on, from the 2008 Primary Election to the 2008 November Election.

II. GOVERNOR WILL RELEASE "MAY REVISION" OF BUDGET NEXT WEEK: FORECAST IS GLOOMY?

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is set to release the so-called "May Revision" of the Budget on Monday or Tuesday of next week. The "May Revise" is the annual document prepared by the Governor, his Administration, and Department of Finance, which makes adjustments to the Governor's January Budget. The document may revise revenue adjustments upward, downward, propose new projects, and even suggest that existing programs be cut.

This year's May Revise is much anticipated due to the fact that the legislature had received early warnings that tax receipts were coming in slower and lower than in previous years. A great deal of that slowdown in revenue is being attributed to the ever-declining housing market. However, on May 1, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that "surprisingly robust collections of personal income taxes [in April] have brightened the state's budget picture by $1.3 billion - easing concerns over a big shortfall next year." Assembly Budget Chair, John Laird offered, "The choice was between a difficult or an extremely difficult budget, and I think we've probably dodged the bullet this time." However, the rumblings out of the Governor's Administration are not as rosy, and it is rumored that the Governor may be proposing sizeable cuts when the May Revise is released. Sources say that that Governor continues to be concerned about the housing market slump, as well as certain revenue assumptions that he made in his January Budget that have yet to materialize.

We will keep you posted as developments surface regarding the May Revise.

Posted by claadmin at 3:06 PM

May 3, 2007

Library Legislative Day Pictorial!

The California State Library has put together a terrific pictorial of Library Legislative Day. To see grassroots lobbying in action, visit http://www.flickr.com/photos/csl_news/sets/72157600214255029/.

Posted by claadmin at 9:53 AM

April 23, 2007

Library Legislative Day in Sacramento a Success!

On behalf of the CLA Legislative Committee, I would like to thank those of you who participated in CLA/CSLA Library Legislative Day in Sacramento yesterday. And hats off to those of you who sent letters and resolutions to your legislators encouraging support of PLF, the State Library, Resource Sharing, SB156 Library Construction and Renovation Bond and the many other bills and funding issues so important to California libraries. There were nearly 300 highly visible librarians and library supporters recognized in the Capitol Halls by the "Libraries = Value" folders. Now that's advocacy!

Here are a few suggestions to keep our message alive during this legislative session:

Send letters of support NOW for PLF, SB156, AB1233 (from Prop. 49 funds, not General Funds) and AB1030 (letters from law enforcement officials would be very compelling)
Introduce resolutions in support of SB156
Introduce resolutions in support of full funding for PLF
Send Thank you letters to legislators and/or their staff for taking the time to meet with you
Send Letters/emails to key legislators encouraging their co-authorship of SB156, AB1233 and AB1030

All documents will remain on the CLA Website throughout the Legislative Session.

Many of you provided feedback throughout the day on the 100+ legislative appointments, but if you haven't please take a few minutes to respond to the survey that is posted on the CLA Website. Who did you meet with and what was their level of support for libraries? Were you successful in securing additional co-authors for SB156, AB1233 or AB1030? Did you find the legislative orientation at the start of the day helpful? Did you participate in the Demystifying Grassroots Lobbying Podcast with Nancy Amidei? Did you make use of Room 115 as a respite between appointments? What suggestions can you offer to improve Legislative Day in Sacramento and/or Legislative Day in the District for next year? We need to hear from you if we are to make improvements to this event next year.

Several members from Oakland Public Library's Youth Leadership Council participated in Library Legislative Day. Above, they visit with Susan Hildreth, State Librarian of California.

Finally, I would like to recognize the entire CLA Legislative Committee, but extend a special thanks to Kathy Gould, Legislative Day Coordinator, Susan Negreen and her staff for all the on site preparation, Diane Smikahl and Bessie Condos for their work in preparing documents for the Legislative Day packets, John McGinnis for his expertise managing the Legislative Day Appointment data, "Team Dillon" for their leadership throughout the year and their insightful comments during the Legislative Day Orientation, Margaret Donnellan Todd, CLA President, Susan Hildreth for securing a National Library Week Proclamation from the Governor and all the CLA Legislative Committee Members and Liaisons whose leadership and experience helped to make 2007 Library Legislative Day one of our most successful. Now let's get busy with those letters and resolutions and keep CLA's message alive!

Melinda Cervantes, Chair
CLA Legislative Committee

CLA Legislative Committee Members
Jose Aponte
Melinda Cervantes, Chair
Deborah Clark
Bessie Condos
Deborah Doyle
Kathy Gould
Carey Gross
Luis Herrera
Terri Maguire
David McFadden
Jan Sanders
Diane Smikahl

Liaisons
Alan Bern, IFC
Deborah Doyle, CALTAC
Susan Hildreth, State Library
John McGinnis, CSLA
Susan Negreen, CLA
Cameron Robertson, State Library
Susan Steinhauser, LOC Board

Lobbyists
Mike Dillon
Christina Dillon
---------------

Legislative Day Survey

Posted by claadmin at 2:45 PM

April 11, 2007

Demystifying Grassroots Lobbying

Just the idea of talking with legislators can be intimidating. Long-time activist Nancy Amidei takes the confusion and fear out of grassroots lobbying by providing hints and tricks to having a successful, meaningful Library Legislative Day. Nancy recently came to the state capital to share her experiences and secrets to grassroots lobbying. If you missed it, we are providing the podcast, produced by InfoPeople.

Nancy Amidei is on the faculty of the University of Washington School of Social Work, where she also directs the Civic Engagement Project. A joint effort of OMB Watch and the UW School of Social Work, CEP works with non-profit organizations throughout the country. CEP offers advocacy training, speeches, workshops, and resource materials, for work at federal, state, or local levels. A writer, teacher, and advocate, Nancy has been involved in social policy from both inside and outside government. She is a former Director of the Food Research and Action Center (a national anti-hunger group). She also served in the Carter Administration as a Deputy Assistant Secretary in the federal department of Health, Education, and Welfare (now DHHS), and in the early 70's she was on the Staff of the U.S. Senate Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs.

Listen to Podcast
Podcast
iTunes
You can download an MP3 file to any MP3 player, or listen to it directly on your computer using not only iTunes, but also Windows Media Player, WinAmp, Real Player, or any other application that can play MP3 files.

Posted by claadmin at 1:08 PM

March 29, 2007

News From the Capitol

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From The Capitol

I. SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE HEARS $4 BILLION LIBRARY BOND BILL

Yesterday, the Senate Education Committee heard SB 156 by Senator Joe Simitian. SB 156 is CLA's sponsored $4 billion library construction and renovation bond bill, which, if approved by the legislature, would appear on the 2008 Primary ballot for vote. In his opening remarks, Senator Simitian, who is one of the legislature's biggest library supporters, stated, "There is more than a $4 billion statewide need. This bill is less than the anticipated need, but will be subject to negotiation." Senator Simitian was referencing the fact that in past years, CLA has been required to negotiate the ultimate dollar amount contained in the library bond measures due to factors out of our control, such as pressures on the state General Fund and the state's bonded indebtedness ratio. We opened with a brief statement on behalf of CLA, and then deferred to CLA President Margaret Donnellan Todd who testified that the need in Los Angeles County alone is $2 billion. President Todd emphasized that there are tremendous economic benefits to locating libraries in communities, as they are the "center of culture and learning." Sacramento Library Director, Anne Marie Gold also testified on behalf of CLA, noting that her county master plan has identified 44 new libraries that will be needed in the next 20 years. She added that libraries remain particularly relevant in today's society as "3 out of 5 Californians own a library card."

Senator Simitian told the committee that there are several issues that will need to be resolved as the bill travels through the process, including the bond dollar amount and which ballot the bond will eventually appear on (if we are successful passing the measure in the legislature). The City of West Hollywood has contacted Senator Simitian with the request that the bill be amended to give priority to the Third Cycle "Outstanding" applicants who were denied funding in the last bond. Senator Simitian said that he is looking at the issue and wants to determine first, "what is good public policy, what is fair, and what is politically feasible."

The measure also received support yesterday from the California State PTA and the California Special Districts Association. Senator Jeff Denham, a Republican member of the Senate Education Committee, who voted for Senator Alpert's library bond measure in 2004, stated, "This is an area I believe we have a great need for in the state."

Any legislation with cost implications over a certain threshold is sent to the so-called Senate Education "suspense file." Similar to the Senate Appropriations "suspense file," this process allows the committee to prioritize the many bills with fiscal implications over the next few weeks. The Senate Education Committee will decide which bills to move forward or "hold in Committee" in May. Since Senator Simitian is also a member of the Senate Education Committee, we have great confidence the bill will move forward.

II. SENATOR TOM TORLAKSON INTRODUCES "NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK" RESOLUTION - RECEIVES SUPPORT ON SENATE FLOOR

Yesterday afternoon, Senator Tom Torlakson, the Senate Appropriations Chair, introduced on the Senate Floor, Senate Resolution 11, declaring April 15 to April 21, 2007 as "National Library Week" in California. The resolution "applauds the positive and vital impact of California's libraries, librarians, trustees, and all library workers, and thanks them for enriching the lives of residents and helping to make our state an exceptional place to live, learn, and work." In his opening remarks, Senator Torlakson noted that the resolution is an "opportunity for us to recognize the outstanding work our libraries do," and added that libraries are the "perfect place to find that special book or bridge the digital divide." The resolution passed on a vote of 34 to 0.

Senator Torlakson will be presenting CLA, CSLA, and CALTAC representatives with SR 11 on Legislative Day in Sacramento, Wednesday, April 18. The event will be held on the Capitol steps immediately following the conclusion of the Opening Day remarks at the Convention Center. Additional details regarding the event will be made available to all Legislative Day attendees in the coming days. Everyone attending Legislative Day is welcome to join us at the Capitol steps on April 18 for this special event, which will last approximately 10-15 minutes.

III. WELL DONE! CLA MEMBER LETTERS MAKE IMPACT IN ASSEMBLY BUDGET HEARING ON PROPOSED $52,000 CUT TO PLF

The phrase, "Your letters really do make a difference" certainly applied during the recent hearing of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance as they considered the State Library budget and the Public Library Foundation. Subcommittee members commented that they had received more letters on the issue of the $52,000 proposed cut to the PLF than any other issue.

The State Library portion of the hearing began with opening remarks from State Librarian Susan Hildreth who thanked the subcommittee for their past support. She introduced the proposal by the State Library to fund a new "Integrated System Replacement Project" and noted that the support with the current vendor will cease in 2009. The State Librarian explained that the ILS will be a "multi-phase project, and we anticipate an additional request (next Budget year) of $1.4 million to make the purchase. In the following year, we will need funding for ongoing operations." The State Librarian then noted that the "funding (for the ILS) has been re-directed by a light amount, and I understand the concerns raised by some in the public libraries." As you may recall, the Governor's January Budget recommends cutting the PLF by $52,000 to fund the first implementation phase of the State Library's project. The Department of Finance representative then said, "Given the state's fiscal situation, the PLF is a viable option for the funding. The critical issue is the out-year cost, which I am sure you are hearing about." Assembly Budget Subcommittee Chair, Assemblywoman Julia Brownley said, "Have you considered any other sources?" to which the DOF representative responded, "It's General Fund, and PLF is General Fund." The representative from the Legislative Analyst's Office spoke in opposition to the $52,000 reduction from the PLF, stating, "You are taking money away literally from the public libraries. It is 22 cents on the dollar that we are giving locals, given the statute."

Assemblywoman Jean Fuller offered, "This (ILS) is a needed system. But I have gotten more letters on this than any other issue for a $52,000 issue. What is the benefit to the libraries? I am concerned with the out-year cost." We then testified on behalf of CLA and gave the subcommittee some history of the PLF, given the fact that there are many new members on the subcommittee this year. We noted the devastating cuts that the PLF has sustained for years, and said that while we do not object to the State Library's program, "our concern is that the PLF not be used as a piggy bank." We argued that the high volume of letters received by the subcommittee members was likely the "anger at the principle, as the public knows the costs will be ongoing." We asked the subcommittee to reject the cut to the PLF, to consider an increase to the PLF baseline, and to create a separate budget line item for the State Library program.

Anne Marie Gold, Sacramento Library Director testified on behalf of CLA and spoke to how the PLF increases and decreases directly affect her ability to provide necessary services. She also did an excellent job of addressing the question that often arises: "Are libraries still valid? Still relevant?" and gave tangible examples for the committee. Assemblyman Mike Duvall wondered if the money for the State Library program could come out of another line item or if the subcommittee should wait for the May Revision of the Budget. The Chair noted, "I am sure we can. It (the ILS) is a three year program, so it is a problem." Said subcommittee member Assemblyman Gene Mullin, also the Chair of the Assembly Education Committee, "This is like being back in local government. I got more letters on this item than a $2.9 billion school item I carried."

The lobbyist for Alameda and Ventura County also stated their support of the PLF and concern over the $52,000 reduction. In the end, the subcommittee decided that it was best to leave the issue "open" so that the subcommittee could revisit the issue after the May Revision. The May Revision of the Governor's Budget is typically released some time near May 15.

Posted by claadmin at 4:08 PM

March 2, 2007

News from the Capitol - Action Requested

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts
FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist
RE: News from the Capitol

I. ASSEMBLY SUBCOMMITTEE WILL HEAR LIBRARY BUDGET ISSUES ON MARCH 14th

The Assembly Budget Subcommittee Number Two on Education Finance is scheduled to hear the State Library's budget on Wednesday, March 14th at the State Capitol. As we reported to you in our January 30th memo, these six Assembly members are critical. On March 14, they will begin reviewing the Governor's proposed January Budget for the State Library - a Budget which contains: 1)a $52,000 reduction to the Public Library Foundation (which is intended to initiate the California State Library's Integrated Library System Replacement Project), and 2) no increase or recommendation regarding Transaction Based Reimbursement.

These six members will then decide to make a recommendation regarding our library issues, or defer the issue until May, when the May Revision of the Budget is released. If funding for the PLF is not included at the subcommittee level, it is almost impossible to get it included later at the larger Budget Conference Committee level. Thus, these next few months of negotiations in subcommittee will be very important, and your letters to the subcommittee are of great value. Please take a moment to write the members of the Assembly and Senate Budget Subcommittees today!

If you are writing letters on behalf of the PLF, please urge that the members support:

Restoring the $52,000 that the Governor cut in the Public Library Foundation
Request that the legislature continue augmenting this program that is woefully underfunded. (Full funding, according to statute would require $94,217,000 - yet the PLF baseline currently stands at $21.3 million!)

Note: CLA will also be working with the Budget Subcommittee members and staff to encourage them to reject the Governor's $52,000 reduction and create a separate Budget line item in the Budget for the State Library Integrated Library System Replacement Project - so that the project is not jeopardized, and that future funding needs for this program comes out of the state General Fund, and not the PLF baseline. (You do not need to include this in your letters if you do not feel comfortable addressing this complex issue.)

ASSEMBLY BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE NUMBER TWO ON EDUCATION FINANCE
Assemblywoman Julia Brownley, Chair
Assemblyman Michael Duvall, Member
Assemblyman Mervyn Dymally, Member
Assemblywoman Jean Fuller, Member
Assemblyman Gene Mullin, Member
Assemblyman Sandre Swanson, Member

(Of the above listed members, Assemblymembers Brownley, Duvall, Fuller, and Swanson are newly elected Freshmen and are new to the subcommittee.)

Hearing Date: Wednesday, March 14, 2007 - Support for the Public Library Foundation: Budget Item: 6120-221-0001

Sample address:
The Honorable Julia Brownley, Chair
Assembly Budget Subcommittee Number Two on Education Finance
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

SENATE BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE NUMBER ONE ON EDUCATION FINANCE
Senator Jack Scott, Chair
Senator Bob Margett, Member
Senator Joe Simitian, Member
Hearing Date: Tuesday, April 17, 2007 - Support for the Public Library Foundation: Budget Item: 6120-221-0001

II. LIBRARY BOND BILL SET FOR FIRST HEARING IN SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Senator Joe Simitian's SB 156, a $4 billion library construction and renovation bond measure, sponsored by CLA, has been scheduled for hearing in the Senate Education Committee. The hearing will be held on Wednesday, March 28th at 9:30 a.m. in room 4203 at the State Capitol. SB 156 is the work product of an ad hoc committee of CLA members and the Proposition 14 Steering Committee. As mentioned previously, the measure is similar to SB 1161-Alpert, which failed passage on the June 2006 ballot, except for the following:

The minimum amount per project has been increased from $50,000 to $500,000.
The maximum amount per project has been increased from $20 million to $30 million.
5% of the total bond amount will be made available for joint-use projects, rather than the specific $25 million set-aside in the last bond act.
There will be no priority given to applicants submitted, but not funded from the 2000 Bond Act (the so-called "Cycle 3" Applicant priority), as the committee felt that too much time will have elapsed with construction costs, etc. to make this provision appropriate. Thus, everyone will start on an even, competitive playing field with SB 156.

Over the last few weeks, Senator Simitian has been actively gathering names of potential co-authors to add to the bill. Many of you had excellent meetings with legislators during your "Day In the District" events, and some legislators noted that they wanted to be co-authors on the bond bill during your meetings. Thanks to several of you for passing that information on to our offices - we, in turn, gave that information to Senator Simitian.

Please take a moment today to write the members of the Senate Education Committee and urge their strong support for SB 156-Simitian. The committee will need to receive hundreds of support letters in order to make the necessary impact, as there is tremendous competition this year for bonds, including the Governor's own $41 billion Strategic Growth Plan, a massive infrastructure bond package that would complement last year's successful bond deal.

MEMBERS OF THE SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Senator Jack Scott, Chair
Senator Mark Wyland, Vice Chair
Senator Elaine Alquist
Senator Jeff Denham
Senator Abel Maldonado
Senator Alex Padilla
Senator Gloria Romero
Senator Joe Simitian (* Bond Bill Author)
Senator Tom Torlakson

Sample address:
The Honorable Jack Scott
Chair, Senate Education Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

Posted by claadmin at 9:14 AM

March 1, 2007

Library Legislative Day Registration has Begun!

Please join us in Sacramento for Library Legislative Day on Wednesday, April 18th!

We have some exciting issues to discuss with Legislators this year, including:

Full funding for the Public Library Foundation
Full funding for Resource Sharing and Transaction Based Reimbursement
A new Public Library Construction Bond Act
Funding for the California State Library
State purchase of electronic resources for school libraries

Sponsored by the California Library Association (CSLA), the California School Library Association (CLA), and the California Association of Library Trustees and Commissioners (CALTAC), Library Legislative Day is an opportunity for library staff and supporters to meet with your state Legislators and/or their staffs in their Capitol offices.

Registration for Library Legislative Day is a 2 step process:

1. Register online or by fax or mail, using CLA's registration form.

A small registration fee will help offset the costs of this event. An important briefing will begin promptly at 8:30 AM â€“ please make travel arrangements to ensure you are there on time. You will need to make your own arrangements for accommodation if required.

2. In the next couple of weeks, registrants will receive an email with instructions for signing up for appointment dates and time. This link will also be available on CLA's Library Legislative Day web page.

As you plan your participation in Library Legislative Day, here are some things to keep in mind:

Fact sheets are being developed for key legislative issues and will be posted on the CLA website. Prior to traveling to Sacramento you are encouraged to check the website to help you prepare for your meetings with legislators.
You may wish to bring brief handout materials (such as a brochure or newsletter highlighting the services provided by your library) that can be left behind for future reference. Messages from constituents such as letters or drawings from the children who use your library are always much appreciated!
Trustees, Commissioners, Board members, Friends, parents, students or other supporters are encouragedd to attend. Please ensure that the names and affiliations of all representatives of your library are registered on the appointment website so that the contact person can let the legislator know who will be attending the meeting.

See you in Sacramento!

Kathy Gould
Legislative Day Coordinator

Posted by claadmin at 7:58 AM

January 30, 2007

Library Bond Measure and Budget Committees Announced

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts
FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist
RE: News from the Capitol

I. SENATOR JOE SIMITIAN INTRODUCES $4 BILLION LIBRARY CONSTRUCTION BOND BILL, SPONSORED BY CLA

Late yesterday afternoon, Senator Joe Simitian, who is one of the most vocal library supporters at the Capitol, introduced a $4 billion library construction and renovation bond measure. The bill, SB 156, is entitled the California Reading and Literacy Improvement and Public Library Construction and Renovation Bond Act of 2008. SB 156 is sponsored by the California Library Association. Assemblywoman Lois Wolk, who, as members know, was very active in last year's bond campaign, is a principal co-author of SB 156.

SB 156 is the work product of an ad hoc committee of CLA Members and the Proposition 14 Steering Committee. The measure will be similar to the last proposed bond act (SB 1161-Alpert, which failed passage on the June 2006 ballot), except for the following:

The minimum amount per project has been increased from $50,000 to $500,000.

The maximum amount per project has been increased from $20 million to $30 million.

5% of the total bond amount will be made available for joint-use projects, rather than the specific $25 million set aside in the last bond act.

There will be no priority given to applicants submitted, but not funded, from the 2000 Bond Act (the so-called "Cycle 3" Applicants), as the committee felt too much time will have elapsed to make this provision appropriate. Thus, everyone will start on an even, competitive playing field with SB 156.

Upon hearing of the introduction of this bill, CLA President Margaret Donnellan Todd said, "The California Library Association is pleased to have such a strong library champion in Senator Joe Simitian, and we thank him for his willingness to shepherd this important library construction and renovation bond measure. The state is simply not keeping pace with the infrastructure needs of California's 20 million library users."

The Senator's bill will need to be in print for 30 days before it may be heard in its first policy committee. As has been standard practice, CLA's bond bills are typically assigned to the Senate Education Committee in the Senate. We will alert you when the bill is, in fact, assigned to committee and when you may begin writing members of the committee to urge their support of this important legislation. SB 156 will face substantial competition from other bond measures this year, as well as the Governor's own proposed $41 billion Strategic Growth Plan, a massive infrastructure bond package he is shopping, based on the success of his last bond package. Thus, the policy and fiscal committees will need to receive hundreds of letters on behalf of SB 156 in order to make the desired impact.

Special Note: In the coming days, Senator Simitian will be sending around a letter to his colleagues in the Legislature, asking them to be co-authors of his bond measure. If you are meeting with your legislator on Friday for "Day InThe District," please encourage him or her to sign on to the co-author letter or to call Senator Simitian's office directly. If you have already met with your legislators, you may wish to follow up with them.

II. BUDGET COMMITTEES ANNOUNCED - OVERVIEW OF GOVERNOR'S 2007-08 BUDGET BEGINS

The Assembly Budget and Senate Budget Committees have been named for the 2007 session. In the Senate, Denise Ducheny will serve as the Chair of the Senate Budget Committee while Senator Dennis Hollingsworth will return as the Vice Chair of the Budget Committee. In the Assembly, John Laird resumes his post as the Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, while Assemblyman Roger Niello will be a new face as the Vice Chair of the Budget Committee. These four appointments are significant, as they will likely be the designees for the powerful Budget Conference Committee that will convene over the summer months to debate the differences between the Assembly Budget, the Senate Budget, and the Governor's Budget.

In addition, Budget Subcommittees have been named in each house. The Education Budget Subcommittees have the jurisdiction over State Library issues, including the Public Library Foundation and Transaction Based Reimbursement. These important subcommittees will begin reviewing the Governor's January Budget in March, and will hear our library issues in March or April for a preliminary discussion. They will then make their final decision on the majority of the issues pending before their subcommittee after the Governor's May Revision is released in mid-May. You will recall that when the Governor released his January Budget, he was silent on any increases for the Transaction Based Reimbursement, but he did make a small reduction to the Public Library Foundation in the amount of $52,000. The $52,000 is intended to "initiate the California State Library's Integrated Library System Replacement Project," according to the Budget document. However, CLA believes that borrowing from the PLF source for this purpose is not appropriate, and we will be lobbying to request that the Administration, in working with the California State Library, create a separate Budget "line item" so that the monies come out of General Fund revenues to fund this program and not out of the Public Library Foundation baseline. In addition, CLA will be lobbying for a restoration of the $52,000 to the PLF, and will be requesting that the PLF baseline be increased. (The PLF currently stands at $21.3 million.)

Please take a moment today to write the members of the Assembly and Senate Budget Subcommittees and urge their support to 1) restore the $52,000 that the Governor cut to the PLF, and 2) request that they continue increasing funding to this program that is woefully underfunded. (Full funding, according to statute, would require $94,217,000.)

SENATE BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE NUMBER ONE ON EDUCATION FINANCE
Senator Jack Scott, Chair
Senator Bob Margett, Member
Senator Joe Simitian, Member

Hearing Date: TBA

SUPPORT FOR PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION:
BUDGET ITEM #: 6120-221-0001

Sample address:
The Honorable Jack Scott, Chair
Senate Budget Subcommitee Number One on Education Finance
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA 95814

We will let you know when official hearing dates are assigned and more details become available.

Posted by claadmin at 11:02 AM

January 23, 2007

Day in the District Talking Points

Day in the District is fast approaching! I hope you will be able to join the effort to make sure every California State Legislator has an opportunity to meet with library representatives on January 26th or February 2nd. Remember to register for appointments at www.legiday.net (username=member, password=member)!

The primary focus of Day in the District is to strengthen the relationship between legislators and the libraries in their District, however it also provides an opportunity to encourage the Legislator to support better funding for libraries state-wide.

The following "talking points" may be helpful as you prepare for your meetings:

Libraries across California provide reading resources, lifelong learning opportunities, career development, educational support, and access to technology and information to every California resident

Historically approximately 0.05% (or 1/2 of 1/10 of 1%!) of California's general fund moneys are directed to California libraries through the State Library for important services and programs such as:
- The Public Library Foundation (PLF) which provides a small amount of funding distributed on a per capita basis to every public library in the state. In 2006 PLF funding was approximately $0.57 per capita
- Transaction-based reimbursement (TBR) which promotes sharing of resources by reimbursing academic, public, and special libraries for a small portion of the cost of serving people from other jurisdictions through Inter-Library Loan and reciprocal "over the counter" borrowing arrangements
- Adult and Children's Literacy programs
- Library services and access to information for the blind, disabled, and other under-served populations
- Library services for the State Legislature and employees
- Preservation of historical documents, photos, and other resources

Studies in other states show that every $1 invested in library services delivers at least $4 in economic value to citizens

The California Library Association is working with Senator Joseph Simitian to prepare a new Library Construction and Renovation Bond Act for consideration by the Legislature. Please ask your Legislators for their support.

Remember that it can take some time for the Legislative Contact to set up the appointment. If the database does not yet list an appointment date and time with your Legislator please keep checking.

Thank you!

Kathy Gould, CLA Day in the District Coordinator

Day in the District Talking Points Flier (31k)

Posted by claadmin at 1:32 PM

January 10, 2007

Governor Releases Jan. 2007-08 Budget: Minor $52,000 Cut Proposed to PLF

TO: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

Shortly after 1 p.m. today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, aided by a set of crutches since his ski accident over the holidays, took to the stage at the Secretary of State's auditorium to present his January 2007-08 Budget. He joked with reporters briefly about the ski accident, noting that he has "pain, ongoing pain, 24 hours a day." But for the most part, the press conference took a serious tone as the Governor referred to his Budget as a "responsible Budget," and a "prudent and realistic Budget."

The Governor's Budget proposes to eliminate the net operating deficit completely, however he suggests doing so through ratifying controversial pending Indian gaming compacts (that failed during last year's end-of-session deliberations), recommends $324 million in cuts to the state's CalWORKs welfare-to-work program, repeal of the Teacher Tax Credit for a savings of $165 million, funding shifts in major transportation programs, etc. The Budget also notes there will be a "Budget reduction of $100 million to be allocated to all departments. The Department of Finance will work with Agency Secretaries and other cabinet members to achieve General Fund savings of $100 million in 2007-08."

Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez, in a press conference held shortly after 2:30 p.m., called the Governor's Budget "basically on the right track," but noted his strong opposition to some of the cuts, particularly in the areas of CalWORKS. Noted the Speaker, "The last thing we want to do is balance this Budget on the back of poor children and single mothers."

The State Library budget was held relatively harmless from reductions, as the overall State Library budget baseline remains essentially what it was last year. With regard to the Public Library Foundation and Transaction Based Reimbursement, despite our lobbying efforts of the Administration during the winter, we knew it would be difficult to see any increases in funding for these two programs in the January version of the Budget. The Transaction Based Reimbursement remains at approximately $19.5 million (no change) and the Public Library Foundation is funded in the amount of $21,308,000.

Please note that the PLF is proposed for a small $52,000 reduction to fund a State Library project, which is explained by the Governor's Office in the Budget document, as follows:

MAJOR PROGRAM CHANGES

The Budget provides $52,000 General Fund to initiate the California State Library's Integrated Library System Replacement Project.

The Budget shifts $52,000 from the Public Library Foundation in order to fund the initial stage of the Integrated Library System Replacement Project.

In February, the Legislative Analyst will release her "Perspectives and Initiatives" review of the Governor's Budget, and then in approximately mid March the Budget Subcommittees will begin the task of reviewing the Governor's Budget. Once the Subcommittee members are named, we will alert the field so that you may begin writing letters on behalf of increased funding for the Public Library Foundation.

Posted by claadmin at 3:39 PM

Day in the District

Library Legislative Day in the District will take place on Friday, January 26, 2007, and Friday, February 2, 2007. Day in the District provides an opportunity to meet with Legislators and their staff in their local offices and inform them about the important role libraries play in the lives of their constituents.

Often legislators are not aware of the broad range of services provided by libraries and the number of lives we touch every day. Day in the District provides a wonderful opportunity for you to establish a dialogue with legislators and their staff, to highlight the services that are important to residents of the communities you serve, and to discuss issues and challenges you face in providing those services.

This year over 1/3 of the members of the Assembly and over 1/4 of the members of the Senate are brand new! Day in the District is the perfect opportunity to introduce them to all of the great things your library is doing and help ensure their support.

Our network of legislative contacts is hard at work setting up appointments.

To register for an appointment with your legislator go to the Library Legislative Day in the District Online Database at: http://www.legiday.net.

At the login screen enter:
Account Name: member
Password: member

After you hit enter you will be taken to a new screen. Click on "legiday" to enter the database. This will take you to the Home Page for the Day in the District 2007.

For each legislator, click on either "View" or "Sign Up" to the left of the legislator's name to bring up a screen with the legislator's appointment information. You will then be prompted to enter your name and contact information. NOTE: If you are a member of CLA, CSLA, or CALTAC the database will automatically retrieve the contact information on record for you.

IMPORTANT #1: Always click the on-screen buttons to post information. Simply hitting the Return or Enter key on your keyboard may not work.

IMPORTANT #2: Always click the | Log Out | link when you are finished. If you leave the screen idle for more than 5 minutes you will be automatically logged out. The database can accommodate only 100 simultaneous users.

As you plan your participation in Day in the District, here are some things to keep in mind:

The focus of Day in the District is on fostering dialogue between local libraries and the legislators who represent the communities served by those libraries. Unlike Library Legislative Day in Sacramento we do not present formal position papers at Day in the District. Please come prepared to talk about your library and how you are making a difference in the lives of the Legislatorâ€™s constituents.
You may wish to bring brief handout materials, such as a brochure or newsletter, that highlight the services provided by your library and can be left behind for future reference by the legislator or staff.
Trustees, Commissioners, Board members, Friends, parents, students or other supporters are encouraged to attend. Please ensure that the names and affiliations of all representatives of your library are registered on the appointment website so that the contact person can let the legislator know who will be attending the meeting.

I hope you will be able to participate in this year's Day in the District!

Kathy Gould, Day in the District Coordinator

Posted by claadmin at 10:31 AM

November 17, 2006

Legislative Analyst's Fiscal Outlook

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: LEGISLATIVE ANALYST'S FISCAL OUTLOOK FOR NEXT FIVE YEARS

On Wednesday, the Legislative Analyst's Office issued a report containing projections of General Fund revenues and expenditures for 2006-07 through 2011-12. The LAO, in recent years, has developed this Fall report to assist the Legislature with its fiscal planning, by assessing the revenues and expenditures of the State. The report concludes that since there is a "modest" increase in revenues than estimated when the 2006-07 Budget was passed last June, the State will still face an operating shortfall in the range of $4.5 billion to $5 billion during the subsequent two fiscal years. In those subsequent years, the operating shortfall begins to decline, primarily as a result of repayments associated with the so-called "deficit-financing bonds," which were approved by the voters in March 2004.

In a cautionary statement, the Analyst notes, "It may be tempting for the State to rely heavily on the large carryover reserve balance and other one-time solutions to get through 2007-08. However, failing to meaningfully address the long-term fiscal imbalance would leave the state in a precarious position." To address the shortfall, the LAO suggests that certain savings could be achieved through the reduction or suspension of cost-of-living adjustments in a variety of areas, including health, social services, and trial courts, as well as suspension or elimination of certain tax credits, such as the Teacher's Tax Credit. Legislative leaders have expressed caution against funding new programs in light of the slight increase in revenues, and H.D. Palmer, a spokesman for the Governor's Department of Finance, was quoted in The Sacramento Bee as saying that the DOF "had already begun turning down requests from state agencies to boost their budgets next year." In the meantime, the Governor and his staff continue to develop the 2007-08 Budget which will likely be released the week of January 8th.

Posted by claadmin at 3:47 PM

September 1, 2006

Senate and Assembly Close Out 2005-2006 Session

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

SENATE AND ASSEMBLY ADJOURN AT MIDNIGHT TO CLOSE OUT 2005-2006 SESSION
Issues Affecting Libraries On Their Way To Governor's Desk

Last night, as the clock approached midnight, hundreds of lobbyists lined the halls of the Capitol, monitoring countless bills pertaining to greenhouse gas emissions, tribal gaming compacts, the Assembly Speaker's cable bill benefiting AT&T and Verizon, and universal health coverage. Not unlike previous years, tensions were high between the two houses, and late-night games between the Senate and the Assembly, as they held each other's bills hostage for periods of time, were the order of the day. In the end, the Senate was able to plow through their list of bills and adjourn shortly after 10 p.m., while the Assembly worked until after midnight to tackle their workload. Heading down to the Governor's office for his consideration will be several bills affecting libraries, directly, or indirectly. Many of the measures were sitting somewhat idle until the last two weeks of session when they were activated with a series of amendments or procedures to resurrect them. They are as follows:

AB 2987-SPEAKER NUNEZ:"Digital Infrastructure and Video Competition Act of 2006" - also known as the "cable bill." The bill is sponsored by AT&T and Verizon, and a recent San Francisco Chronicle article notes that "state lobbying reports show that in April, May and June, AT&T and Verizon spent almost $19.7 million to influence the vote on AB 2987, an amount that astounds Capitol veterans." The bill was strongly opposed by the local government community, particularly the League of California Cities and CSAC, as well as CLA. Under current law, local governments are allowed to grant franchises to a cable television operator, and require certain concessions such as PEG (public, education, and government) channels, and non-discrimination components (must build-out to the entire community), etc. This bill replaces the local franchising process with a state process, and allows AT&T and Verizon to apply to the PUC for a franchise and by-pass the local government negotiations entirely. While the bill is extraordinarily complex, and, at one point, had more than 300 amendments incorporated into it, it should be noted that technology groups and CLA opposed the language pertaining to the PEG and I-Net. The bill was amended on August 23 and again on August 28, leaving lobbyists scrambling.

On Wednesday and Thursday, the bill passed the Senate and Assembly Floors overwhelmingly, as the lobbying efforts of AT&T and Verizon, and the strong influence of the Assembly Speaker as the author, were just too powerful. (Incidentally, Senate President pro Tem Perata, former Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy and current Republican Leader George Plescia are also principal co-authors on the bill.) As the bill heads to the Governor, the final negotiation on the PEG and I-Net was as follows: "Current law authorizes local franchising authorities to negotiate channel set-asides for PEG access as well as support for PEG operations. Some local franchising authorities have also negotiated institutional networks (I-nets), which are communication networks used by local governments for their own communication purposes. This bill grandfathers in the existing PEG channel requirements, and authorizes all local franchising authorities to receive three PEG channels. In addition, the state of California is authorized to establish a PEG channel for state purposes. All local governments are authorized to impose via ordinance a one percent fee for PEG purposes. Those four percent of local governments that impose a fee for PEG support through their current franchise higher than one percent are authorized to impose that same level of fee after the franchise expires, but not to exceed three percent." (Senate Floor Analysis)

SB 682-MIGDEN: Sutro Library This bill was formerly an RFID (radio frequency identification) measure by Senator Simitian that was being held on the Assembly Appropriations "suspense file." Senator Migden went to Senator Simitian and asked if she could take the bill over in the final weeks of session and "gutted" the bill to use it as a vehicle. SB 682, as amended, would augment, by a total of $21 million, a prior authorization of $96 million in lease revenue bond financing for preliminary plans, working drawings, and construction of the J. Paul Leonard Library and Sutro Library joint project on the San Francisco Campus of the California State University. The bill passed the Senate last night on a vote of 32 "ayes" to 5 "noes." CLA is supporting this measure, which is on its way to the Governor.

AB 1388-RIDLEY-THOMAS: California Teleconnect Fund - This bill was introduced last year and then stumbled, and sat idle until the last two weeks of session. Specifically, the bill permits the California Public Utilities Commission to "establish two specific grant programs to provide advanced telecommunications network services to community technology programs and public libraries that deliver education services to pupils and health care facilities. The bill permits any funds repaid to the California Teleconnect Fund from the state General Fund to be used by the PUC for these programs." (Floor Analysis) CLA has been in support of AB 1388 for two years, and has been working with the supporters of the bill and the author's office, but it was not until recently that very defined language regarding public libraries was added to the measure. If the Governor were to sign the measure, CLA would have to work with all of the parties involved to help ensure that this item was funded through the annual budget process.

SB 768-SIMITIAN: RFID and the Research Bureau Study - You may recall that last year we reported to you at length about Senator Simitian's pursuit of a bill to regulate the usage of RFID (radio frequency identification) technology on state and local government cards, etc. His measure, SB 682 (now Senator Migden's Sutro library bill) was held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee last year, and would have banned the use of the technology on drivers licenses, library cards, and government health benefit cards, to name a few. In addition, the bill created an onerous encryption requirement, recommended protective shields for the cards, and proposed a three year moratorium on the technology. Unable to move his SB 682, he amended a bill in September 2005, pertaining to "finfish," and turned it in to his old RFID measure.

SB 768 sat idle until two weeks ago when it was resurrected after an agreement was reached with the electronics industry, who had previously opposed Senator Simitian's measure. The industry had been backing AB 2561 by Assemblyman Torrico, which would have required the California Research Bureau to prepare a report, with the assistance of an advisory board, on the "best practices" for use of RFID technology in state and public issued cards. Senator Simitian had been involved in a series of negotiations regarding AB 2561, along with the Senate President pro Tem's office and Assembly Speaker's office. Eventually, it was decided that Senator Simitian's SB 768 would go forward, but it would also contain the California Research Bureau component study in Assemblyman Torrico's bill. (Mr. Torrico would then agree to drop his measure.) SB 768 was rushed to Senate Judiciary Committee for a late hearing on Monday, August 28. At the hearing, the opponents all removed their opposition, with the exception of HID, an RFID manufacturer, who said that they were still concerned with the "onerous provisions on the end user." While the study is a positive piece in the measure, the bill will still require posting requirements and other protective measures.

SB 768 is on its way to the Governor's Desk.

Posted by claadmin at 4:43 PM

June 30, 2006

Governor Signs Budget

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist
Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

I. GOVERNOR SIGNS BUDGET - GREAT DAY FOR LIBRARIES!
$7 MILLION FOR PLF AND $7 MILLION FOR TBR INCLUDED IN AB 1801

At 11:30 a.m. today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger held a press conference to announce he was signing the $131 billion 2006-07 State Budget in the Rotunda of the State Capitol, while flanked by the legislative leaders in each house and the two Budget Chairs. The Governor, wielding his pen, signed the Budget bill, AB 1801, at 11:50 a.m., and then posed for photos with Assembly Speaker Nunez and Senate President pro Tem Perata. Speaker Nunez called the Budget one that "reflects a shared vision for California - one that can be fiscally conservative, and compassionate." Assembly Republican Leader George Plescia praised the efforts of his colleagues, noting that in terms of his caucus' goals, "paying down debt was our number one priority." In a document released shortly before noon that accompanies the Governor's action on the State Budget, it states: "The 2006 Budget Act signed by Governor Schwarzenegger fulfills the two principal budget priorities he put forth in his May Revision - improving the State's fiscal health by; 1) paying down debt and building a reserve; and 2) fully funding education - while also providing critical funding for law enforcement, disaster preparation and services for abused and neglected children."

Thanks to the successful lobbying efforts by CLA, the strong support of the Governor and his Administration, and the action of the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance and the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance, today's Budget bill contains a significant increase in two important library programs - the Public Library Foundation and the Transaction Based Reimbursement. The Governor's Budget document released today states:

California State Library

"The Budget provides a $7 million General Fund increase to the Public Library Foundation (PLF) program and an additional $7 million General Fund increase to the transaction-based Interlibrary Loan and Direct Loan Program. The augmentation to the PLF will enhance base support for local libraries, allowing for longer hours of operation, the purchase of more books or expenditures for other local priorities. The increase to the Interlibrary and Direct Loan programs will allow local libraries to recoup costs incurred when libraries share resources with other library districts, thereby encouraging efficient resource allocation."

This important action by the Governor and the legislature brings the total baseline for the PLF to approximately $21.3 million and the total baseline for the TBR to approximately $18.6 million.

II. SCHOOL LIBRARIES BIG WINNERS AS WELL

The Budget also provides for funding for an Instructional Materials, School Libraries, and Education Technology Grant under the K-12 Proposition 98 portion of the Budget. $100 million is set-aside for this purpose and the Budget document reads as follows regarding this item:

Instructional Materials, School Libraries, and Education Technology Grants

"The Budget includes $100 million in one-time Proposition 98 funds for the purchase of instructional materials, school and classroom library materials and one-time technology costs. High-quality instructional materials for every student are a fundamental building block of a strong educational program and are required under the Williams settlement. These resources will help schools fill gaps in their instructional material programs and replace lost textbooks. Further, school libraries play a vital role in promoting academic achievement and providing instructional support. The resources provided in the Budget will help to replenish and refresh both school and classroom library materials. In addition to the purchase of books and materials, these funds are available for the purchase of one-time education technology which provides schools with many options for enhancing instruction through the use of electronic multimedia materials. Grants will be allocated to school districts and county offices of education on an equal amount per pupil based on the number of pupils in kindergarten through grade 12."

III. SENATE COMMITTEE PASSES CABLE BILL - DEFERS ISSUE PERTAINING TO THE "PEG" AND LIBRARIES

Despite the fact that the Senate and Assembly were scheduled to depart for their month-long recesses after the conclusion of yesterday's Floor sessions, the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee held another hearing yesterday afternoon, to finish the work they began on AB 2987-Nunez, on Tuesday. You will recall from our memo to you earlier this week, that on Tuesday the Senate Committee held a three hour hearing on the very controversial measure, that is sponsored by AT&T and Verizon, which would enable the two telephone companies to enter into the local market without having to negotiate with cities and counties, as is currently allowed with traditional cable companies. Under the bill, the Public Utilities Commission would issue the new franchises and oversee the new process.

The hearing on Thursday afternoon lasted three hours - again! This time, the Chair, Senator Martha Escutia, noted that the rules of the hearing would change significantly. She stated, "On Tuesday, we had 100 supporters and 100 opponents. I know who the stakeholders are, and I want only a few stakeholders for each today." She then asked only the representatives for Verizon, AT&T, the cable industry, the League of Cities, and CSAC to come to the table. Speaker Nunez then thanked the committee members and staff for "all of the hard work and time that has gone in to the bill. There have been very legitimate concerns raised by the stakeholders." Speaker Nunez, flanked by Assemblyman Lloyd Levine (a co-author on the bill and Chair of the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee) then went issue by issue through the bill and attempted to take amendments that would satisfy the concerns of the committee members and the opponents.

The bill became particularly complicated when it got to the issues of "build-out" and "non-discrimination" and how much AT&T and Verizon will have to commit to building in areas dominated by minority communities, etc. Similarly, the issues regarding the public, education, and government (PEG) channels and funding for Institutional networks, and such things as free drops to schools, public buildings and libraries, have become increasingly complex. The issues have been all lumped together by the committee as the "PEG debate." When we spoke to the Speaker's lead consultant on the PEG issue on Thursday, he said that the Speaker wasn't prepared to offer amendments in committee because of the complexity of the issue, and that it was "too hard to cut the pie here." He said he believed the committee would defer the issue and attempt to work on it during the July break and tackle it again when the Senate Appropriations Committee meets in August. Chair Escutia stated, "I had no idea what a PEG channel was before the hearing the other day and now we need to try to define how to keep the cities whole, how many channels, etc." Speaker Nunez stated, "I agree, this is a complicated matter. There are differing levels of PEG channels. Some communities are more sophisticated than others. Let's try to find a framework to develop an over-arching service that has a common thread." He then proposed working through the summer break with Senator Murray and Simitian on a solution. Said Senator Simitian, "I thank the Speaker. I represent an area where PEG is very important...I am not wild about abrogation. I wasn't in the room when that came up. But I think it is not appropriate for [the cable companies] to walk away from PEG when it is nickels and dimes in terms of a multi-million dollar contract obligation." Senator Cox said, "I would like to thank the Speaker for recognizing the importance of the PEG. Some communities are very far along in terms of the INet." It was then agreed that Senator Simitian and Senator Murray would head up the group that would lead the discussion on the PEG amendments during July, and would bring back something definitive for the Speaker to consider at the Senate Appropriations hearing in August.

The job of local government advocates has become much more difficult now that the cable companies, who were strongly against the bill, have negotiated amendments to serve their needs, and are now siding with AT&T and Verizon. Incidentally, the bill went out of committee on a bi-partisan vote yesterday of 9 "ayes" to 0 "noes." We will keep you posted.

Posted by claadmin at 2:22 PM

June 28, 2006

Budget Passes with Augmentation for PLF and TBR

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

I. SENATE AND ASSEMBLY PASS BUDGET CONTAINING AUGMENATIONS FOR PLF AND TBR
Governor Schwarzenegger Expected To Sign Budget By Friday

Last night the Senate and Assembly reached agreement on a $131 billion Budget and brought the bill and related "trailer bills" to their respective floors for a vote shortly after 8 p.m. The Budget bill passed with relatively little drama - except in the Assembly where they were short a few Democrat members due to illness, and had to call for the vote on the Budget bill, AB 1801, three different times (close to 9:30 p.m.) until they received the requisite two-thirds vote for passage.

You may recall that several weeks ago, the powerful six member Budget Conference Committee had been diligently pouring through the Budget document, trying to reconcile the differences between the Governor's January Budget, the Governor's May Revision, the Assembly version of the Budget, and the Senate version of the Budget. However, on Saturday, June 10, they reached a virtual impasse on the "sticking points," that would need to be resolved by the so-called "Big 5" which consists of the Governor, Speaker of the Assembly, Senate President pro Tem, Assembly Republican Leader, and Senate Republican Leader. Republicans were concerned that the Conference Committee product was "bloated" and contained too many new state administrative positions. In addition, they objected to the inclusion in the Budget of funding for health care for "undocumented" children. Not only had the Conference Committee included money for this purpose, but the Governor had also included money in his Budget for undocumented children. Recently, the stalemate on this issue ended when Democrats dropped their decision to fund this item, and the Governor apparently decided to eliminate this line item from his Budget as well.

The Budget bill, AB 1801, contains a $7 million increase in funding for the Public Library Foundation. This would bring the total amount of funding for the program to $21.3 million (see page 553: 6120-221-0001). AB 1801 also contains a $7 million augmentation for the Transaction Based Reimbursement which will bring the total amount of funding for the program to $18.6 million for the "Direct Loan and Interlibrary Loan Programs." (see page 553: 6120-211-0001).

II. AB 2987-NUNEZ: THE MONSTER CABLE BILL AFFECTING...LIBRARIES?

AB 2987, authored by Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez and Assemblyman Lloyd Levine, Chair of the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee, and sponsored by AT&T and Verizon, would enable the two telephone companies to enter into the local market without having to negotiate with cities and counties, as is currently allowed with traditional cable companies. AT&T is putting a huge amount of resources behind this bill, as evidenced by the never-ending television ads you have been inundated with over the last few months. The bill passed its initial committee, Assembly Utilities and Commerce, after a two-hour hearing, on a bi-partisan vote of 9 "ayes" to 0 "noes" and 1 abstention - mostly due to the influence of the powerful Assembly Speaker. It passed the Assembly Floor 77 to 0.

There is a huge "turf war" going on between the proponents (AT&T and Verizon) and the opponents (the traditional cable companies, i.e. Comcast, etc.) In addition, the League of California Cities and the County Supervisors Association expressed strong concerns with the bill during the policy committee hearing. You may be wondering what a bill between competing cable companies has to do with public libraries?

As you are aware, cities, for example, can charge a franchise fee of up to 5% of gross revenues that can be used for any general fund purpose. (It is like a rental charge on the public right-of-way, as the streets are torn up to put the cable in place.) Additionally, they may charge an additional percent of gross revenues, usually ranging from 1 percent to 3 percent for public, education, and government (PEG) channels, which can include televising city council meetings, etc. Under AB 2987, local governments lose the power to negotiate, and:
1) "A community may only keep the PEG channels that are currently activated in accordance with the requirements of the existing franchise.
2) The bill imposes a future ceiling of three PEG channels for communities that currently have no PEG channels.
3) In addition, when an existing franchise term expires, and in all cases where there are no PEG channels and resources in existing franchises, PEG funding and support opportunities, are severely limited by the state franchise approach as envisioned by AB 2987. PEG funding is limited to the lower of 1% of gross revenues or the amount of capital-related PEG funding required in the expiring franchise.
4) Requirements for free drops to schools, public buildings and libraries are not included as permissible state franchise obligations under AB 2987." [Source: Sue Buske, Alliance for Community Media, National Board]

The CLA Legislative Committee, Chaired by Terri Maguire, took an "oppose unless amended" position on the bill, and directed us to work collaboratively with CSAC and the League of Cities as the bill moved through the process. The bill has been one of the most fascinating bills we have ever been directed to work on, on behalf of CLA - mostly in terms of its importance and enormity in the State Capitol. To give it some perspective, former Senate President pro Tem John Burton and Senator Dede Alpert have been retained to lobby on behalf of the opponents, while the proponents have retained lobbyists such as former Democratic Leader Senator Richard Polanco, former Republican Leader Senator Jim Brulte, several lobbying firms with ties to Governor Schwarzenegger, etc. CLA has been part of a coalition of local government lobbyists and representatives called the "Telecommunications Equality Coalition" and we have been meeting in person or via conference call regularly to discuss strategy or meet with legislators on the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee.

The Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications Committee heard the bill on Tuesday morning. The members of the committee have been bombarded with lobbying from both sides, and their over-riding message to all of us has been, "We understand you don't like the bill, but where are your amendments!?" One Senator indicated, "The franchise train has left the station. Do you want to be in the First Class part of the train? Or the caboose?" Her representative explained that she was attempting to help local government achieve their objective, but wanted concrete solutions by way of amendments. During the hearing this Tuesday, literally hundreds of lobbyists and representatives from the local government community swarmed the hallways outside of Room 112 at the Capitol to testify in support and opposition to AB 2987. The mass of people was so great, that the sergeants actually opened "overflow" rooms where lobbyists could watch the hearing on t.v., since many hundreds could not get physically in to the hearing room, due to fire code violations.

Assembly Speaker Nunez, in his opening remarks, stated, "This bill creates a level playing field for market competitors. It also continues to provide PEG channels, which we think is a real positive thing, and we want that to continue." He addressed a series of problems in the bill, acknowledged that he would be willing to take amendments relative to placing the bill under the jurisdiction of the Public Utilities Commission, would allow cable companies to abrogate contracts, would more clearly define "gross revenues," and would strengthen language regarding fees versus taxes. He added, "There are a lot of other outstanding issues, including how to fund the PEG, and Institutional networks, but I am committed to working on that."

Both Chair, Senator Martha Escutia and Senator Kevin Murray expressed their concern that the bill creates disadvantages for minority communities, and that AT&T and Verizon would have no incentive to develop their markets in low income, minority neighborhoods. Said Chair Escutia, "I am not going to allow a bill to get out of my committee without protecting poor people. It is important to never forget our roots." With countless representatives coming forward to oppose the provisions in the bill pertaining to the PEG language, Senator Escutia said, "I am not going to have this discussion on PEG anymore. I am making an executive decision that Senator Murray, as Chair of Senate Appropriations will address this issue in his committee in August." Senator Joe Simitian, a friend to public libraries and schools, said, "Madame Chair, if we are not going to have the full discussion today, will you allow me to be a participant in the discussion? What we don't want to do is push back in terms of the potential for the PEG." Senator Escutia concurred and said, "Agreed, I'd like to craft something that makes sense."

In a surprising twist, after a three hour hearing, no vote was taken on the bill, and instead, Senator Escutia announced she would hold a hearing this Thursday morning, after the Senate Floor adjourns. She added, "We are going to address every issue. My goal is to address those to the satisfaction of the Chair and the members on both sides of the aisle." Each member of the committee then gave a closing statement. Senator Joe Dunn stated, "We have come a long way and Thursday will be critical. But I am reminded (when I hear) 'We will get a better price via competition...' Those were the words of Ken Lay. So I am dubious." Senator Dave Cox said, "I am looking forward to getting into the inner workings of PEG. The devil is in the details and we need to go line by line so we don't put out a product that comes back to haunt us." Senator Battin closed by offering, "The cities need to come to a position. They are beating a dead horse on the PEG. That should be able to be worked out quickly. If that is the bulk of their opposition, then there is no 'there' there!" We will keep you posted.

Posted by claadmin at 4:59 PM

June 8, 2006

CLA Statement on Proposition 81

The California Library Association is deeply disappointed in the defeat of Proposition 81, the Library Bond Act. A library is the heart of every community, and a necessary cornerstone of learning. This loss is a setback for dozens of cities and towns throughout the state who have no library, or a library that is too antiquated to serve its community's growing need for information. According to the California State Library, more than 500 public library building projects are needed within the next five years to meet the skyrocketing demands for library services. Though we are disheartened by the results of the ballot, the California Library Association will continue its commitment to advocate for California's libraries, and we will work with our elected officials and communities to create 21st century libraries and services throughout our state.

Margaret Miles
President, California Library Association

UPDATE
Prop 81 in the news:

Tougher times blamed for rejection of library measure

Bond failure forces cities to drop plans or seek other funds

Library plans have tragic ending

Bond measure defeat hurts library plans

Posted by claadmin at 11:42 AM

May 24, 2006

Budget Subcommittees Wrap-Up Work

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From The Capitol

Both Houses Approve $7 million for PLF and $7 million for TBR in Governor's May Revision of Budget

As of early last evening, the Assembly and Senate Budget Subcommittees on Education Finance have now both completed their work, and are sending their final recommendations of the Governor's January Budget and subsequent May Revision on to the full Budget Conference Committee for consideration.

You may recall that in January, Governor Schwarzenegger proposed no change to the baseline amount of the Public Library Foundation, which currently stands at $14.3 million. However, due to our lobbying efforts and the grass roots lobbying efforts of CLA members, the Governor elected to augment the PLF by $7 million in the May Revision of his Budget. Increasing funding for the PLF was considered a "top priority" by CLA, and the Governor's action would bring the total funding level for the program to slightly more than $21 million. In addition, CLA had requested that we pursue additional funding for the Transaction Based Reimbursement program. Similarly, we were successful in convincing the Administration that TBR was a program worthy of funding in the May Revise. The Governor added $7 million to the TBR baseline in the May Revise, bringing the total proposed funding level for the TBR to approximately $19.5 million.

Last Thursday, the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance reviewed the Governor's May Revise and January Budget and voted to approve the $7 million increase for the PLF and the $7 million for the TBR, with Senator Jack Scott (Chair) and Senator Joe Simitian voting in support of the motion. Senator Bob Margett, the Republican member of the subcommittee abstained, stating in committee, "It is not that I am not supportive of libraries, but we have a deficit coming up and I am looking for every nickel and penny."

In the Assembly Budget Subcommittee, one subcommittee member asked us if we would come forward to again explain some of the services that could be provided with the dollars under the Public Library Foundation. She had some specific questions regarding programs offered, and we were able to assist her during our testimony. The subcommittee then subsequently augmented the PLF by $7 million. Similarly, the subcommittee also approved the Governor's May Revise as it pertains to the TBR for a $7 million increase.

The powerful Budget Conference Committee will likely convene next Wednesday to start reconciling the differences between the Assembly version of the Budget and the Senate version of the Budget. While conferees have not yet been named, more than likely they will be: Senator Wes Chesbro (the Chair of the Senate Budget Committee), Senator Dennis Hollingsworth (the Vice Chair of the Senate Budget Committee), and potentially Senator Kevin Murray (the Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee). On the Assembly side the conferees will likely be Assemblyman John Laird (the Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee), Assemblyman Rick Keene (the Vice Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee), and Assemblywoman Judy Chu (the Chair of the Assembly Appropriations Committee). There is a strong possibility that the PLF issue and the TBR issue may not even be part of the Budget Conference Committee negotiations this year, as the dollar amounts match in both the Senate and Assembly versions, and there is agreement in the Governor's office. This would be good news in terms of being able to potentially avoid our usual "Budget fight" during the hot, summer months. However, we still have a long way to go and will continue to monitor the Budget closely to make sure that the PLF and TBR dollar amounts stay in tact throughout the often tumultuous process. We will keep you posted!

Posted by claadmin at 3:45 PM

May 12, 2006

Governor's May Revision of State Budget is Great News for Libraries

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

GOVERNOR'S MAY REVISION OF STATE BUDGET IS GREAT NEWS FOR LIBRARIES
Governor Proposes $7 million increase for PLF and $7 million more for TBR

Shortly after 1 p.m. this afternoon, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger unveiled his much anticipated May Revision of the State Budget at the Secretary of State's auditorium before a large audience of the press corps. Due to a tremendous surge in April tax receipts, mostly from capital gains, revenues are up significantly from the Governor's January Budget - $4.8 billion in the current year, and $2.7 billion in the Budget year, for a projected total of $7.5 billion. The Governor opened his presentation by stating he was, "Very excited about this Budget," but quickly cautioned that with the increase in revenues, he would be supporting a "prudent approach." He noted that with a sizeable Budget windfall, "it can be very tough to exercise discipline and caution," and highlighted that his Budget would focus on 1) investing in education, 2) setting aside a reserve for a "rainy day fund" ($2.2 billion), and 3) paying down the state deficit.

The Governor said that it was a "Budget that was much more than just dollars and cents, more than just ledger sheets. It is an expression of values and who we really care about." CLA is pleased that the Governor then feels that two programs within the State Library are valuable enough to have received much needed proposed augmentations in the May Revision - the Public Library Foundation and the Transaction Based Reimbursement. CLA has been lobbying the Governor's Office on these two items and we were hopeful that they might receive favorable consideration. However, we knew that competition for available dollars - even with the Budget surplus - was tight, and that an augmentation for both the PLF and TBR was a long-shot. Today's action by the Governor and his staff is great news indeed!

Here is the specific text from the Governor's May Revision:

"California State Library:
The May Revision provides a $7 million General Fund increase to the Public Library Foundation (PLF) program and an additional $7 million General Fund increase for the transaction-based interlibrary Loan and Direct Loan Program. The augmentation to the PLF will enhance base support for local libraries, allowing for longer hours of operation, the purchase of more books or expenditures on other local priorities. The increase to the Interlibrary and Direct Loan programs will allow local libraries to recoup costs incurred when libraries share resources with other library districts. This program encourages efficient resource allocation and is worthy of increased support."

The Budget also contains additional funding for school libraries contained in the "Classroom and School Library Reading Block Grant." $75 million of Proposition 98 General Fund money is provided for the purchase of school library materials to "help to replenish and refresh both school and classroom library materials." Of the $75 million, "$25 million is reserved for kindergarten through grade 4, and $50 million for grades 5 through 12."

Next week the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance and the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance will review the Governor's May Revision and will determine whether or not they agree with this recommendation by the Governor regarding these two programs. We will be lobbying the two subcommittees to retain the $7 million augmentation for the PLF and the $7 million for the TBR, and if successful, will then need to make our case to the powerful six member Budget Conference Committee. (When the Budget Conference Committee appointees have been officially named we will alert you so you may write the members.)

In the meantime - thank you Governor Schwarzenegger!!

Posted by claadmin at 2:16 PM

May 9, 2006

Library Cheer!

By popular demand, we are providing the text to the cheer led by Margaret Miles, CLA President, at our Annual Library Legislative Day:

(leader says what's in caps, crowd say what's in lower-case. Everybody says hip-hip-hooray!)

L-I-B-R-A-R-Y

l-i-b-r-a-r-y

I SAID L-I-B-R-A-R-Y!

l-i-b-r-a-r-y

WHERE DO YOU GO FOR POETRY?

l-i-b-r-a-r-y

WHERE DO YOU GO FOR HISTORY?

l-i-b-r-a-r-y

WHERE DO YOU GO IF YOU'RE OLD AND SHY?

l-i-b-r-a-r-y

WHERE DO YOU GO TO LEARN HOW TO FLY?

l-i-b-r-a-r-y

I SAY LIBRARY, YOU SAY CARD

LIBRARY

card

LIBRARY

card

I GOT ONE, AND IT WASN'T TOO HARD

LIBRARY

card

LIBRARY

card

BIG BRICK BUILDING HOW SWEET IT LOOKS
SO TAKE ME IN TO THE LAND OF BOOKS
TO THE L-I-B-R-A-R-Y

l-i-b-r-a-r-y

IT'S BEEN IN YOUR TOWN FOR A HUNDRED YEARS,
LET'S GIVE YOUR LIBRARY THREE BIG CHEERS!

hip-hip-hooray!

CLA President Margaret Miles leads the Annual Library
Legislative Day attendees in a cheer before they head
out to their meetings with legislators.

Posted by claadmin at 12:00 PM

May 5, 2006

Senate Budget Subcommittee Considers PLF and TBR

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

SENATE BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS CONSIDER PLF AND TBR
Senator Calls Library Funding A "Top Priority"

This week the Senate Budget Subcommittee Number One on Education Finance considered the budget for the State Library, which included the issues of increased funding for the Public Library Foundation (PLF) and Transaction Based Reimbursement (TBR). After a very brief introduction of the issues by subcommittee Chairman Senator Jack Scott, the subcommittee took testimony and then agreed to place the PLF and the TBR on the so-called "checklist" until after the May Revision is released next Friday. The "checklist" is a method by which the subcommittee will indicate initial interest or support of an item, and then will withhold action on that item until they can obtain a better sense of the state revenue projections, which come available on May 12, when the Governor releases his "May Revision" of the State Budget. The subcommittee will then re-open the issues that they have "checklisted" over the past few weeks, and as they approach the Memorial Day weekend, or even in to the first week of June, will complete final recommendations regarding which items they believe they can or cannot fund.

Chairman Scott began with some opening remarks and then asked the representative from the Legislative Analyst's Office to comment on the status of the PLF. Steve Boillard from the LAO, stated, "At a time when we are expanding other programs in the Budget, we recommend this program as a strong candidate for available dollars that you are considering." Chairman Scott then referenced our now-famous "75 percent cut chart" where we indicate how the PLF was funded at its historic high level of $56 million level in 2000-01 and its current low level of $14.3 million. Said Chairman Scott, "No question about it, the PLF has taken quite a hit." A representative for the Department of Finance called the State Library Budget a "stay-the-course budget" and noted that there were "no cuts and no increases." State Librarian Susan Hildreth offered that while that was in fact true that the State Library Budget was kept status quo, an "increase in funding would be greatly appreciated."

CLA then testified, noting that we were "preaching to the choir" as we were appealing to some of the strongest library supporters in the Capitol in Senators Jack Scott, Joe Simitian, and Bob Margett. We added that full funding for the PLF was the number one priority for the association, and that additionally we would like to have the TBR considered for funding as well. We gave some brief history of the cuts sustained by the PLF in recent years, and how the money is used by public libraries throughout the state. Senator Scott thanked us for the testimony and then noted that the PLF and the TBR would be placed on the "checklist" and considered for possible funding after the May Revision is released.

Subcommittee member and former CLA Legislative "Member of the Year" recipient, Joe Simitian then interjected, "I know where the Chair is on this. The amounts on this (being requested) are miniscule in the big picture, but in this case, they translate into direct service." Senator Simitian then added, "My experience [with the PLF] and the TBR - because they are dollars that are used right there at the margin - they are carefully used and seen right up front...and highly valued. The Governor's Budget talks about the value of literacy, and I would just urge the Administration to take a look at this for the May Revision. This is at the top of my list for one of my highest priorities."

Chairman Jack Scott offered, "I applaud Senator Simitian for his comments. We look to public libraries throughout our lives. When we can't purchase books and electronic materials we can't serve our public. I think we should consider an augmentation."

It is important to note that despite indications that state revenues are up due to higher than expected April tax receipts, legislators have already began cautioning that the legislature should not go on a "spending frenzy." Several leaders, including Senate President pro Tem Don Perata, have been quoted as saying, "We're going to learn the lesson from 2000. We're going to be very, very careful and determine how much of this is one-time money and then apply it only to one-time expenditures. We seem to follow the business cycle and sooner or later there is going to be a downturn." And, newly elected Assembly Republican Leader George Plescia added, "The first priority is to pay down the debt the state has, whether that is paying back what we borrowed from transportation programs or the schools." (source: San Francisco Chronicle, May 2, 2006).

If there is a proposed augmentation to the PLF, it will likely be modest in nature, and will potentially have to go to the larger six-member Budget Conference Committee, for full consideration. And, as always, if the funding survives the Budget process, it must also survive the Governor's so-called "blue pencil" veto authority. Since the Governor's office is so important to the process, the CLA leadership met with the Governor's Chief Deputy for Education on CLA Legislative Day. President Margaret Miles, President-Elect Margaret Donnellan Todd, Executive Director Susan Negreen, CLA Legislative Chair Terri Maguire, and CLA Lobbyists Mike and Christina Dillon spoke of the importance of increasing the funding levels for the PLF and TBR. CLA felt the meeting with the Governor's representative was positive, and we had additional time to speak with him about the library bond measure as well.

CLA will continue to lobby all members of the Budget subcommittees and the Governor's office in the coming weeks.

Posted by claadmin at 12:20 PM

April 12, 2006

Join Me for Library Legislative Day!

Submitted by Margaret Miles, CLA President

California Library Legislative Day is fast approaching! I invite you to join me on April 26 for the opportunity to meet with your local legislators and communicate to them the importance of libraries in your community.

Even more important than what we as librarians say about libraries is what our patrons say. We obviously have a vested interest in seeing libraries funded. After all, if our budgets are cut, we may be out of a job. Our patrons, our volunteers, and our Friends of the Library members are people who don't get paid to care; conversely, many of them give a great deal in terms of time and donations to support the services they find so valuable. I encourage you to bring a member of your community with you to Legislative Day, someone who "cares for free." This not only gives them a chance to raise their voice for libraries, but it provides you with a wonderful publicity item for your local media. Ask your Friends of the Library group to sponsor a student, a member of your governing Board, or one of their own, and make sure they bring a
camera!

Be sure to register online and rsvp for appointments with your legislators.

Posted by claadmin at 1:57 PM

April 4, 2006

National Library Week

To: CLA Members/ Systems/ Network Contacts

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist and Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: News From the Capitol

SENATOR TORLAKSON INTRODUCES RESOLUTION CELEBRATING
"NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK"

At CLA's request, Senate Democratic Caucus Chair, Tom Torlakson, has introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution 110, celebrating April 2 through April 8, 2006 as "National Library Week." The resolution "applauds the vital impact of California's public libraries, librarians, and all library workers," and contains several important "WHEREAS" clauses that highlight the numerous contributions that public libraries make statewide.

You may recall, Senator Torlakson has carried past legislation relative to ERAF relief for libraries, and has served as the former Chair of the Senate Local Government Committee, where he became one of the principle architects of Proposition 65 (later became known as Proposition 1A), which provided ERAF relief to cities, counties, and special districts. A special "thank you" to Senator Torlakson and his Legislative Director, Jennifer Swenson, for their work on our behalf!

The bill was amended on April 3, 2006 to include an important "WHEREAS" that was crafted in conjunction with the literacy community, and Carey Gross of the CLA Legislative Committee. The bill will head to the Assembly this week so that principal co-author, Assemblywoman Wolk, will have the opportunity to take it up in her house as well, and then it will be returned to the Senate.

You may view a copy of the resolution at www.senate.ca.gov. Click on "legislation" and enter "scr 110" in the subject box.

Posted by claadmin at 1:05 PM

March 22, 2006

Join Us for Library Legislative Day!

Please join us in Sacramento for Library Legislative Day on Wednesday, April 26th!

We have some exciting issues to discuss with Legislators this year, including:

Full funding for the Public Library Foundation
Full funding for Resource Sharing and Transaction Based Reimbursement
Support for the Library Construction Bond Act (Proposition 81)
Funding for the California State Library
Establishment of School Library Content Standards (AB 2065)
State purchase of electronic resources for school libraries (AB 2540)

Registration for Library Legislative Day is a 2 step process:

Register online or by fax or mail, using CLA's registration form.

A small registration fee will help offset the costs of this event. An important briefing will begin promptly at 8:30 AM - please make travel arrangements to ensure you are there on time. You will need to make your own arrangements for accommodation if required.

Go to http://www.csla.net/legimembers for appointment dates and times and to add your name to the appointment list for specific legislators.

Our network of legislative contacts is busy making appointments with the legislators and the website will be updated as appointments are made. If no appointment has yet been made with your legislator(s) keep checking! The Legislative Contacts are setting up appointments as quickly as possible, but it can be a slow process.

Please sign up for appointments by Friday, April 21st to ensure your name can be included in the printed schedule of appointments that is distributed on Legislative Day.

As you plan your participation in Library Legislative Day, here are some things to keep in mind:

Fact sheets have been developed for key legislative issues and are posted on the CLA and CSLA websites. Prior to traveling to Sacramento you are encouraged to check the websites to help you prepare for your meetings with legislators.
You may wish to bring brief handout materials (such as a brochure or newsletter highlighting the services provided by your library) that can be left behind for future reference.
Trustees, Commissioners, Board members, Friends, parents, students or other supporters are invited to attend. Please ensure that the names and affiliations of all representatives of your library are registered on the appointment website so that the contact person can let the legislator know who will be attending the meeting.

See you in Sacramento!

Kathy Gould
Legislative Day Coordinator

Posted by claadmin at 11:33 AM

March 20, 2006

News From the Capitol

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. ASSEMBLY BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE LISTENS TO OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION ISSUE

Late Wednesday the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance Number Two met to hear a presentation on higher education issues and State Library issues contained in Governor Schwarzenegger's January Budget. Included in the State Library presentation was discussion on the Public Library Foundation. Formal action on the item has been deferred by the subcommittee until after the Governor's May Revision is released in mid May.

State Librarian Susan Hildreth began a brief overview of the State Library's general budget, noting that she was "very pleased that there were no cuts" to the department's Budget. She also thanked the subcommittee for their past efforts to support the "Books for the Blind" program and noted the success of the program and that the "implementation was going well." She then indicated that one of the "most important local assistance programs is the Public Library Foundation, and the program has taken a number of cuts." Assemblywoman Jackie Goldberg, a member of the subcommittee commented, "A couple of years ago, I recall that the PLF had a much larger budget. What was that number?" Subcommittee Chairman Mervyn Dymally then noted, "Mr. Dillon just happens to have a chart here," wherein we produced the now-famous "75% cut chart" showing the sizeable reduction that the PLF has sustained since 2001-02, when the PLF baseline was at $58 million. Assemblywoman Goldberg then asked about the actual usage of the PLF dollars at libraries. State Librarian Hildreth responded that the dollars were used for various purposes, including Homework Help Centers, the purchase of books and materials, staffing, hours, etc. Chairman Dymally said, "Reflecting upon these cuts - it is a sad commentary on the emphasis we have placed on libraries."

Steve Boilard, representing the Legislative Analyst's Office, said, "Even though this year's Budget makes no cut to the PLF, it is still a $70 million cut in essence." (Referencing the fact that the PLF, if fully funded, would be approximately $85 million.) He added, "A few more dollars to the PLF would bring you strong returns. The point I was trying to make earlier (during his testimony on the higher education Budget), was you could opt to make better choices later with the Budget dollars." We are having discussions with the Analyst on possible sources of funding for the PLF from other areas in the Budget.

CLA then testified, citing some of the past history of how the PLF went from the $58 million to the current $14.3 million, and the additional cuts libraries endured in the wake of the passage of Proposition 13 and the SDAF (Special District Augmentation Fund) shifts in past years. We asked for the committee's consideration for additional funds, if revenue projections continue to improve, as is expected, when the May Revision is released.

CLA has also submitted, in its letter to the subcommittee, a request for additional funding for Transaction Based Reimbursement as a second priority.

II. THE NEXT STEP - LETTERS REQUESTED!

The Senate Budget Subcommittee Number One on Education Finance will be hearing the PLF issue on Monday, May 1 at 1:30 p.m. We would encourage you to begin writing letters to these three Senators today, to encourage their strong support of additional funding for the PLF. Traditionally, these Senators have been excellent supporters of libraries, and have each spoken out in favor of the PLF annually in this subcommittee. However, competition is tight for dollars this year and they still need to hear from you!

Please take a moment today to write the following members:

Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance Number One:
Senator Jack Scott, Chair
Senator Bob Margett, Member
Senator Joe Simitian, Member

Sample address:
The Honorable Jack Scott
Chair, Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance Number One
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

In your letters, please indicate support for Budget Item: 6120-221-0001: Public Library Foundation, and request that the subcommittee provide additional funding to the baseline amount. (Currently at $14.3 million. Full funding of the PLF would be approximately $85 million.)

In addition, we would appreciate your letters to members of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance Number Two as well. As we mentioned above, the subcommittee will be waiting until the Governor's May Revision is released before they make final recommendations regarding the PLF, so the Assembly subcommittee will need to hear from you too.

The Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance Number Two:

Assemblyman Mervyn Dymally, Chair
Assemblywoman Wilma Chan
Assemblyman Joe Coto
Assemblywoman Lynn Daucher
Assemblywoman Jackie Goldberg
Assemblyman Bob Huff

Sample address:
The Honorable Mervyn Dymally
Chair, Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance Number Two
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

We will continue to keep you updated as to the progress of the subcommittees.

Posted by claadmin at 10:49 AM

March 7, 2006

Campaign for Prop 81 Gears Up

Librarians and library advocates across the state have organized a grassroots effort to pass Proposition 81, the $600 million library construction and renovation bond measure that will be on the ballot in June 2006.

The campaign steering committee, chaired by Solano County Librarian Ann Cousineau, has mobilized a system of regional and county coordinators to pass the measure. Advocates will be stressing the following key messages about the importance of approving the bond:

Local libraries are in need. A needs assessment by the State Library has found that there are more than 500 public library projects needed in the next five years. Many communities have no local library, despite significant population growth.
Libraries are safe places for children. We see this in libraries all over the state as children pour in to seek homework help, work on research projects, and study.
The bond measure is not a tax increase. It is bonded with indebtedness the state repays over a number of years, but is not an increase to either property or sales tax. None of this funding can be used for local governments for administrative overhead.
Local dollars for local services. The bond reduces the amount that cities, counties, and library districts need to devote to capital costs, thus increasing the amount of local dollars that can be used to fund operational programs including collection development, literacy, senior services, and childrenâ€™s programming.

We need your help. The library bond measure will NOT simply pass on its merits. It will take the involvement of many people across the state. Please consider helping in the following ways:

Give to the campaign, if you have not done so already. The campaign is still far short of its goal for the resources needed to effectively push for the measure.

Hold a fundraiser in your area and invite other people to come and contribute to the campaign.

Talk to your co-workers and ask that they also support the bond.

Friends and foundations--urge these groups to make a contribution and to generate support for the bond.

Secure endorsements from city councils, boards of supervisors, school boards and other local groups.

And finally--Vote for Prop 81.

For more information on the campaign to pass Prop 81, please go to Yesforlibraries.com.

Posted by claadmin at 9:35 AM

February 14, 2006

ALA Council Report

Submitted by Jackie Griffin, California Chapter Councilor

Mario Gonzalez from Greenwich Public Library, CT, Terri G. Kirk, from Reidland High School, Paducah, KY, and Roberta Stevens from the Library of Congress were elected to the Executive Board.

Gerald Hodges
Gerald was a special friend to ALA Chapters and to the membership. He was a longtime ALA staff member and many of us knew him and his winning smile. Gerald died shortly before ALA. He will be sorely missed.

Certified Public Library Administrators Program (CPLA)
The CPLA program is up and running. This provides an ALA certification to public library administrators who already have a master's degree from an ALA accredited library school and at least 3 years of supervisory experience. Applications to participate in this program are now being accepted by ALA and providers of the required courses were approved at this conference. Contact me for additional information.

Leslie Burger's Presidential Initiative
Leslie Burger will become president of ALA in June. She has chosen as her theme: Libraries Transform Communities. It will focus on leadership development, policy development, salaries and education, tips for transforming libraries, and expansion of the library advocacy network.

Group Call-In to Congress
On Wednesday morning between during a council meeting break, we had a group call-in to Congress - literally. President Michael Gorman led us, while being filmed, in calling his Congress person and asking for support of revisions in the USA Patriot Act.

ALA COUNCIL MEETINGS

ALA council met three times for many hours. It considered both issues of interest and concern to the entire profession and somewhat arcane issues related to the operation of the association.

Here are the major resolutions we considered, how I voted, and the outcome of the discussion.

Resolution on the Instructional Classification of School Librarians. There is a movement around the country for state legislatures to pass a law under the general title of "65% solution." Background on this issue can be found at http://www.schoolmatters.com/pdf/65_paper_schoolmatters.pdf.

I'm sure if you just search Google under "65 percent solution" you can find additional information. In summary, this "solution" says that 65% of each dollar should go to classroom activities. School libraries are not officially so defined as classrooms by the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), which is the official federal agency that defines educational activities. These are used primarily for the collection of statistics but impacts also how money is allocated. We have been told, but again I've not verified this, that NCES has issued an interpretation of their definitions that says that school libraries are indeed classrooms but that they cannot officially change the definition until NCES goes through a reauthorization process.

Here is a summary of the resolves:

ALA communicate regularly with state Governors about the "critical need for them to demonstrate their commitment to quality education for every child by including school libraries in all state education priorities and rejecting publicly any policy that would dismantle school libraries and reduce or eliminate the staffing of those libraries by state-certified school librarians."

Inform state legislators that school libraries should be included in any definition of classroom Work with NCES to change the definition

I voted yes. The resolution passed.

Dues increase
ALA Treasurer Teri Switzer gave a brief presentation.

She said it had been 11 years since last dues increase. The recent strategic planning effort at ALA, ALA Ahead 2010 had over 20,000 members providing input. Members told ALA that they wanted more programs and more support for their favorite causes at ALA. They want more support for local advocacy to improve funding and for advocacy training. In order to provide all of these services, ALA needs a strong foundation on which to build. ALA's Executive Board and leadership endorse this dues increase. ALA is barely holding its own now. There has been a 30% reduction in purchasing power since 2000. Budgets have been flat for 5 years. ALA has reached its financial limit. ALA cannot be all we need it to be and want it to be without stepping up to the plate and contributing more to our dues.
ALA members will be asked to vote on the dues increase this spring.

Here is the proposal in brief.

Regular membership up $10 per year for 3 years.

Library support staff members raises $3 per year for three years.

Trustee and Associate members raises $5 the first year, then $4, then $5 for a total of $11 Student members (limited to 5 years) raises $3 the first year, then $2, then $3 for a total of $8.

Other members (which includes retired) raises $4 the first year, $3 the second and $4 the third for a total of $11.

I voted yes. The resolution passed.

Treasurer's Report
ALA had a fairly good year LAST year due to holding positions open. This was a one-time saving and led to the ability to pay off some long term loans. However, to move forward with long term goals and plans, more revenue is desperately needed. Treasurer Teri Switzer shared this information with us:

$1.00 in 2000 is worth $1.25 in 2005.
Revenues of $43 m should really be $50 m to keep growing programs. In 2000, ALA significantly invested in technology - it is now time to replace the equipment and software. ALA payroll has decreased by $500,000. ALA needs people to continue to offer programs that ALA members say they want. Reserves are Â½ of what they were in 2000. At the same time, the ALA Washington Office, and ALA members, are being asked to deal with significant issues: Patriot Act and privacy; CALEA that requires telecommunications carriers to enable law enforcement's legitimate wiretapping requests; Digital TV bills; E-rate; LSTA and other library funding; Social legislation ALA's continuing priorities are: Diversity; Equitable access to information and library services; Education and lifelong learning; Intellectual Freedom Advocacy for libraries and the profession; Literacy; Organizational excellence. All of this leads to the same conclusion: the dues need to be increased as well as economies continued.

Resolution on a Graduated Dues Structure. There was also a resolution recommending a study of a graduated dues structure, and other funding alternatives, with a report due in 2007. Before it could even be discussed, it was moved to refer the resolution to BARC (The Budget Analysis and Review Committee). There were several reasons for the referral. First, we had just passed a resolution for a dues increase. The Membership Committee had studied this issue already. Second, while there was agreement that other sources of funding ALA should be studied, this seemed to come too soon after a potential dues increase. The hope is that there will be a full discussion at the annual meeting in New Orleans. Right now, it is hoped that the new dues increase request will pass and ALA can move forward on implementing ALA Ahead 2010.

I voted for the referral. The referral passed.

Committee on Legislation (COL)
COL brought several resolutions to Council. Here they are with a summary of their content. If you would like to see the full resolution with all its whereas and resolves, I'll be happy to send it to you.

Resolution on the USA PATRIOT Act Reauthorization asks Congress to:

amend USA PATRIOT ACT in a manner that "safeguards the privacy rights and constitutionally protected civil liberties of all library users, library employees, and U.S. persons"

amend to show that law enforcement officials have to be specific about who they are investigating with evidence that an investigation is warranted (i.e. no fishing expeditions)

require FISA Court to make a finding that these facts are sufficient to warrant an investigation

allow a recipient of a FISA records search order to consult with an attorney, to challenge the search and gag order

asks that Section 215 have a sunset date of no more than four years

urges Congress to "intensify its oversight of the use of the USA PATRIOT Act as well as other government surveillance and investigation"programs

reasserts ALA's "commitment to the rights of inquiry and free expression" of everybody.

I voted yes. The resolution passed.

Resolution on OMB's Guidance to Agencies Pertaining to the Implementation of Section 207(d) of the E-Government Act of 2002

asks for timely hearings on this Act with librarians as witnesses instead of just posting on the web and asking for comments

asks that Congress provide oversight that the recommendations of the Categorization of Government Information Working Group be implemented (basically that government documents be cataloged in a way that the public can actually find them)

I voted yes. The resolution passed.

Resolution on Protecting the Toxics Release Inventory Program

opposes the Environmental Protection Act's proposal to reduce the frequency and threshold requirements for Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) reporting

urges Congress to stay with the original intent to "make information, including off-site consequence analysis information, publicly available on a timely basis"

urges Congress to "direct the EPA to maintain the current TRI reporting thresholds and frequency."

I voted yes. The resolution passed.

Resolution on the Changes to the IRS Tax Forms Outlet Program asks that ALA work with the IRS to "reconfigure the Tax Forms Outlet Program to meet the needs of the participating libraries and the public they serve." Basically, the IRS isn't sending enough forms and wants librarians to help everybody get the forms online. Some libraries and people would like to actually get the forms.

I voted yes. The resolution passed.

Resolution Affirming Equity of Access Through Universal Service, E-Rate and Advanced Broadband Services

asks Congress "assess and review the impact of regulatory changes on the public interest, including libraries, educational institutions, and state and local governments"

asks for "open access and interoperability as well as for prohibitions against control of access by only a few"

continue the E-rate or a similar program.

I voted yes. The resolution passed.

Opposition to Judge Samuel Alito as U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice. The Committee on the Status of Women in Librarianship (COSWL) proposed a resolution to oppose the confirmation of Judge Samuel Alito as associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court and communicate this opposition to the U.S. Senate.

Posted by claadmin at 2:10 PM

January 20, 2006

2006 Day in the District

Submitted by Kathy Gould, Day in the District Coordinator

The annual CLA/CSLA "Day in the District" is nearly here - we are trying to have library advocates meet with as many Legislators as possible on Friday, January 27 and Friday, January 3.

Have you signed up to meet with your local Legislators? If not, we need your participation!

Our Legislative contacts have been busy making appointments for many Legislators across the state. Go to http://www.csla.net/legimembers to look up appointment dates and times and to sign up for appointments. If no appointment has yet been made for your Legislator, keep checking - more appointments are being confirmed every day! (Note that due to scheduling constraints some meetings may take place on dates other than January 27 or February 3.)

We have an exciting Legislative agenda this year. Public libraries will be seeking:

Full funding for the Public Library Foundation

Support for the Library Construction Bond Act

Funding for the California State Library

Your help is essential if we are to achieve these goals!

Talking Points (21k)

Posted by claadmin at 1:36 PM

January 10, 2006

Governor Releases 2006-07 Budget, No Further Cuts to Public Library Foundation

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

Shortly after 1 p.m. this afternoon, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger released his 2006-07 Budget in a large auditorium at the Secretary of State's Office building, before members of the press corps, representatives of the Governor's Cabinet and Senate President pro Tem Don Perata. The Governor noted that his Budget would "continue California on a path of fiscal responsibility and recovery" and he added that while "we still have a structural deficit, I want to work with the legislature to find a solution to this problem." For approximately 20 minutes, the Governor fielded questions, held up various charts and graphs, and delighted members of the media with jokes about his recent motorcycle incident wherein he sustained stitches in his upper lip.

The Governor's Budget examines the national and California economy, particularly as it applies to the "sharp slowdown in residential construction," and overall personal income trends. However, the Budget document contends that the national and California economies continue to remain "fundamentally sound" and that the "outlook for 2006 and 2007 is for continued (revenue) gains."

As the Budget appears to "hold the line" in most regards, we are pleased to report that the Governor is not proposing any cuts to the State Library Budget in the following areas:

No cut to the Public Library Foundation: maintain the existing baseline amount of $14.3 million. Note: CLA will be working over the next several months to lobby the legislature and the Governor's office to increase this amount.

No cut to the California Library Services Act: maintain the existing baseline amount of $14.3 million.

No cut to the Library Services and Technology Act: maintain the existing baseline amount of $12.5 million.

As you may have been reading in the papers of late, the hallmark of the Governor's 2006-07 Budget will be his massive infrastructure proposal, called the "Strategic Growth Plan: Building California for Future Generations." The Governor's Budget describes the plan as the "first installment of a 20-year investment on a future that will ensure California's quality of life and foster continued economic growth. The plan balances the necessity of meeting infrastructure needs with prudent and fair approaches to funding those needs." Phase One is a 10-Year Financing Plan that would include $222 billion in infrastructure investments. Between the years of 2006 and 2014, voters would go to the polls to authorize the financing of these bonds (a portion would be General Obligation bonds - $68 billion, while others would be a mix of private financing/user-pays, etc.) Governor Schwarzenegger said he was trying to address infrastructure in a cohesive manner, rather than piecemeal. "People have approved bonds for parks, stem cell research, libraries, etc. But there is no continuity." He further acknowleged that Senate President pro Tem Perata and Assembly Speaker Nunez also have infrastructure bond proposals and said he thought it was "great everyone was talking about it since two years ago that wasn't happening."

Yesterday, Assembly Speaker Nunez named Assemblyman John Laird (Budget Chair), Assemblywoman Judy Chu (Appropriations Chair), Assemblyman Rick Keene (Budget Vice Chair) to a conference committee "that will work out any differences between Assembly and Senate Infrastructure bond bills, thereby speeding up work on the Governor's infrastructure bond proposals." (source: Speaker's press release) The release notes that the Conference Committee could begin work as soon as next week.

Posted by claadmin at 3:34 PM

December 16, 2005

Infrastructure Bond Discussions Abound

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. INFRASTRUCTURE BOND DISCUSSIONS ABOUND

Recently, you may have read various news reports about talks of a so-called "mega infrastructure bond" that the Governor and the legislative leaders may be considering in 2006. In November, the Los Angeles Times reported that the Governor had highlighted some of the needs that could be incorporated into a State General Obligation bond package to be placed before the voters next year. While most people are of the of the impression that one huge mega-bond will appear on the June or November ballot, we are informed that the Governor's proposal ultimately, with support from the Legislature, will likely call for a long-term funding plan, i.e. infrastructure needs for the next 30 years might be established, and bonds let accordingly. In an article in Wednesday's Sacramento Bee, Governor Schwarzenegger's Department of Finance spokesman "said the $50 billion estimate for (the Governor's) bond measure has 'taken on a life of its own' and insisted that the Republican governor hasn't decided the amount or the 'financing mix' for his proposal." The Governor is expected to unveil his long-term bond proposal in his January Budget, which he is required to present to the legislature by January 10th, 2006.

Senate President pro Tem Don Perata has also been very vocal in his strong support for a large infrastructure bond. The Senator held a press conference several weeks ago, at which time he outlined his priorities for a June 2006 bond -- primarily for transportation, housing and infrastructure, in the amount of $10.3 billion (proposal is contained in his SB 1024). Senator Perata also acknowledged that he has been having discussions with the Governor on other infrastructure needs. On Tuesday of this week, Senator Alan Lowenthal "took the bond show on the road" by holding a hearing of his Senate Housing and Transportation Committee, which he Chairs, in Los Angeles. The hearing, entitled, "SB 1024 - What the Infrastructure Bond Would Mean For Southern California," was intended to address four specific areas: 1) Southern California's Transportation and Housing Needs, 2) What the Bond Will Mean For Southern California's Transportation System, 3) What Will The Bond Mean For Housing Affordability and Infill Development in Southern California, and 4) What The Bond Will Mean For Southern California's Water Supply and Flood Control." The background paper for the hearing focused on areas such as "Stuck in Traffic: California's Current Transportation Situation" and "At Risk for Major Levee Failure." In addition to Senator Lowenthal, present at the hearing were key figures Senators Tom Torlakson (representing Senator Perata) who previously served as the former Chair of the Transportation committee, and Senator Kevin Murray who was recently named as the new Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Last week, we met with the top staff director for Senator Murray. He informed us that Senator Murray is compiling information regarding the state's infrastructure needs and he wanted to know what the total bond need was statewide for the library community. However, after meeting with the Senator's representative, we got the impression that any proposals coming forward relative to any General Obligation bonds this year will be receiving great scrutiny and will be significantly smaller than originally anticipated. In fact, in Wednesday's Sacramento Bee article, they note that Senator Murray, at the Los Angeles Senate Transportation Committee hearing, "warned local officials against considering the (transportation) bond proposal as a 'Christmas tree' to pay for unworthy projects. 'We are hundreds of billions of dollars behind, so we are not on a gravy train here.'"

It should be noted that Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez has indicated that he too will likely be pushing an Assembly bond package to address transportation needs, and perhaps other critical infrastructure components.

During the coming weeks and months, there will likely be significant debate on the State's debt limit, the use of other sources to repay the bonds, i.e. sales tax increases or gas tax increases for transportation, etc.

II. WHAT DOES THE BOND DISCUSSION MEAN FOR THE LIBRARIES?

As the bond discussions began heating up, we received a few calls from those in the library community saying, "Mike and Christina, what does this mean for our library bond bill which is currently on the June 2006 ballot?" In fact, a hard working group of library leaders within CLA, which we have affectionately titled the "Library Bond Task Force," were peppered with inquiries from outsiders who wondered: "Should we consider collapsing our June bond into this new mega bond effort?" Or "Are we going to be swallowed up by this larger mega bond and will the legislature try to run a bill to move our bond to November like they did with the high speed rail bond?" While we felt these scenarios would be long-shots, we immediately set out to talk to high-ranking senior staff in the Capitol - representatives for the Senate President pro Tem, Assembly Speaker, Republican Caucus, etc. Based on our information, it was our feeling that if a mega bond is to be developed, the likelihood of it making it to the ballot prior to June 2006 is slim. More than likely, the voters will be contemplating a mega-bond on the November 2006 ballot. Many Capitol insiders tell us there is still a great deal of disagreement between the two houses regarding Northern California versus Southern California needs, dollar amount, the type of infrastructure that would be financed (e.g. transportation and flood control only or more expansive and long-term, such as the Governor's larger plan?), and the problematic financing angle. Thus, at this current time, the only item that is currently slated for the June 2006 ballot is the library bond. When we asked high-ranking legislative staff if they thought there was any chance that leadership would attempt to move the library bond from the June ballot to another date, they all agreed that they felt this was highly unlikely and that the "library bond should be safe." They also believed that there was minimal threat that anyone would try to "collapse the library bond into a larger mega bond effort." Lastly, we tried to get a sense as to whether or not we could get additional library bonds included in any new "mega-bond." While we have "put in a plug" with the Governor's Office and other key legislative leaders, our sense is that resolution of the whole bond scheme is a long way off. We're just happy that, at this time, the library bond is on the June ballot!

III. SENATOR PERATA MAKES NEW COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

In a move that surprised most Capitol insiders and outsiders, Senate President pro Tem Don Perata recently named Senator Kevin Murray as Chair of the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, replacing Senator Carole Migden. The change was a tightly-guarded secret, and we were told about the story only hours before the story broke in the press. While there have been conflicting rumors as to why the change was made, Senator Migden issued a press release stating that she was asking for a "leave from her responsibilities as Chair so she can help Controller Steve Westly win the 2006 Democratic nomination as Governor." Senator Perata also made a number of other changes at the same time:

Senator Tom Torlakson, who has been a strong supporter of libraries throughout his time in the legislature, will serve as the new Democratic Caucus Chair, replacing Senator Kevin Murray.

Senator Carole Migden will replace Senator Elaine Alquist as the Chair of the Senate Public Safety Committee. In past years, bills pertaining to "obscene matter" or "harmful matter" that are monitored by the CLA Legislative Committee, have been heard by the Public Safety Committee.

Posted by claadmin at 2:20 PM

November 21, 2005

No Time Like the Present to Give to the Bond Fund Campaign

Submitted by Mark Smith on behalf of the Bond Fund Campaign Committee

Nearly every person attending the annual CLA conference last week in Pasadena should have heard about the efforts to pass the $600 million library construction bond set for approval by California voters in June 2006. Members of the Bond Fund Campaign made presentations to many groups throughout the conference. If you were moved to write a check to support the bond fund, but haven't found the time to do so yet, please pull out that remit envelop, finish writing your check, and send it in. The fund needs the support of every member of CLA and every library advocate in California. Give often and give generously to help pass this bond. And remember, you can also give online at www.yesforlibraries.com.

With your help-and only with your help-we can pass this historic bond next June.

Posted by claadmin at 7:38 AM

November 1, 2005

CLA Program to Explore Public Library Bond Fund

Submitted by Mark Smith, Legislative Chair

You are invited to program to be presented at the CLA Conference on the California Public Library Bond Fund titled, "Public Library Bonds, Buildings, Books, and Bytes." The program will be held from 4:45 to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 6, in room C211 of the Pasadena Conference Center.

Anne Cain, Contra Costa County Librarian will serve as moderator for a panel of experts that includes Linda Springer of the Office of Library Construction at the California State Library, Ann Cousineau, Solano County Librarian, and Anne Campbell, Director of the National City Public Library.

Linda Springer will discuss the successes of the last bond act (popularly known as Prop 14); Anne Campbell will describe her experience in successfully applying for bond funds and the subsequent construction of a new library in National City; and Ann Cousineau will describe the ongoing effort to pass the next bond scheduled for voter approval in June 2006.

Posted by claadmin at 8:01 AM

October 19, 2005

Legislative Committee and CALTAC Programs Planned for the Conference

This year's conference features two great programs sponsored by the Legislative Committee and CALTAC: --David Janssen, CAO of L.A. County, telling us about local government in California and where and how libraries fit into that picture, and --A panel discussion on the new Bond Act for library construction, which will also feature highlights of the 2000 Act, differences between the two, and the ongoing campaign for approval of the new Act on the 2006 ballot.

2000-2010: Public Library Bonds, Buildings, Books
and Bytes
Sunday, Nov. 6, 4:45 pm - 6:00 pm
Conference Center, Room C211

Making Sense of Local Government
Monday, Nov. 7, 10:30 am - 11:45 am
Conference Center, Room C102

Posted by claadmin at 7:00 AM

September 9, 2005

State Legislature Adjourns; Eminent Domain Update

To: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

From: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

Subject: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. SENATE AND ASSEMBLY ADJOURN FOR THE SESSION - ONE DAY EARLY - DURING A MOST UNUSUAL YEAR

Last night the Senate and Assembly concluded the first half of the rather unremarkable 2005-2006 session. Senate President pro Tem Don Perata had the Senate meeting daily, grinding through a steady-stream of hundreds of bills, in anticipation of the final crush of legislation that had to be moved through the Senate and Assembly before the September 9th adjournment date. Two weeks ago, Senator Perata had announced that he was hopeful that with his ambitious schedule in place, the Senate could adjourn a day early, but lobbyists were skeptical, as an early departure date had not been achieved in at least a decade. As is often the case, the Senate tends to be more organized in these final weeks than the Assembly. Since the Assembly had not been as aggressive as the Senate in moving bills off their Floor, they were significantly behind in the processing of their bill load.

Thus, it came as no surprise to us last night, as lobbyists packed the hallways monitoring hundreds of measures, when Senate President pro Tem Perata announced shortly before 9:30 p.m., "Well, we only have about 2 more bills remaining." Sources tell us that Senator Perata has issued several polite "warnings" that his house was close to shutting down for the year, as they lacked any more work to do." Further, he cautioned that if the Assembly was currently in possession of any bills with Senate authors, he wanted them immediately dispensed with so that they could be sent back over to the Senate, otherwise they would be rendered dead for the year if the Senate lost patience and shut down. A half an hour went by, and Senator Perata, in his frustration, gaveled the Senate to a close. Even a last minute attempt to resurrect AB 1388-Ridley-Thomas (teleconnect) fell victim to the skirmish between the two houses. When the word had trickled to the Assembly that the Senate had shut down, an audible gasp went up from the membership, with the realization that many crucial bills were now dead for the year.

The legislature will reconvene the first week of January 2006 to begin the second half of the session.

II. STATUS OF LEGISLATION RE U.S. SUPREME COURT KELO DECISION ON EMINENT DOMAIN

This morning, we reported to the CLA Legislative Committee the discussion on the eminent domain bills introduced in recent weeks. CLA Legislative Chair Mark Smith thought some of you might be interested in the issue. Here is brief summary of what has occurred to date.

You will recall that on June 23, 2005, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Kelo v. City of New London, that the taking of private property unrelated to a blighted condition, for the purpose of economic development, is a "public use" within the meaning of the "takings clause" of the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution. The so-called "takings clause" provides that government may take private property for a public use only with the payment of just compensation. The case revolved around the condemnation by the City of New London, Connecticut, of Susette Kelo's home to allow for the development of an upscale waterfront complex. The 5-4 decision also suggested that states were free to pass their own additional protections.

As a result of the Kelo decision, a number of bills have been introduced in the Legislature. The most comprehensive measure, SCA 15 by Republican Senator Tom McClintock, and a narrower Constitutional Amendment, SCA 12 by Democrat Tom Torlakson, relating to residential only, were held in the Senate Judiciary Committee last week. The debate on SCA 15 was the most emotional, with Senator McClintock stating, "This is a fundamental issue with a 'yes' or 'no' answer. It is either morally right to take one person's property and give to another person for private profit, or it is not." He went on to note that under the California definition of "blight," even the White House would be included. He concluded by stating, "I ask you to restore the Bill of Rights for California." The defeat of SCA 15 went along party lines, with Democrats voting "no" and Republicans voting "aye." The committee did pass, also along party lines, AB 1162 by Assemblyman Gene Mullin, Chair of the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee, which would essentially establish a two-year moratorium on public entities from exercising the power of eminent domain to acquire owner-occupied residential property for private use, and would also require the California Research Bureau to submit a report to the Legislature regarding the exercise of the power of eminent domain.

Wednesday morning, the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee, chaired by Assemblyman Mullin, passed SB 1026 by Senate Local Government Committee Chair Christine Kehoe, that is almost identical to AB 1162-Mullin. The debate on SB 1026 was similar to the other measures and again went along party lines. Republicans want the bills to apply to all property, arguing that "a small business or commercial property may be as important to some people as their home." The Democrats argue that eminent domain is a complicated issue, and rather than rushing a bill through the Legislature in the final weeks of the session, it would be more appropriate to just deal with the issue of residential, since the Kelo decision involved home ownership. Senator Kehoe stated at the hearing that her measure "would not affect traditional public works projects." At the conclusion of the hearing, we asked Chairman Mullin what his intention was with respect to his and Senator Kehoe's nearly identical bills moving forward. He stated that he would likely drop his measure and become a principal co-author on Senator Kehoe's bill.

Later that day, we received a call from Senator Kehoe's office informing us that she would not move her bill this year, and subsequently received a press release, which we thought you might find interesting. Our guess is that the author and Democratic leaders had a discussion during the day and decided - why push their members to a vote on the Floor and then let the Republicans blast the Democratic measures for not going far enough, etc.

Lastly, the Senate Local Government Committee held a hearing on August 17th, and a report has been developed by the committee's staff, which focuses on four findings:

None of the witnesses said that Kelo affected counties, cities, special districts or school districts. They focused on redevelopment agencies.

The witnesses disagreed on how Kelo affected redevelopment agencies, eminent domain powers in California.

The witnesses disagreed on property owners protections under the existing statutory procedures.

Committee Chair, Senator Kehoe, announced that the "blight" definition would be a subject of her committee's fall interim hearings.

The committee's report ("Kelo and California: How the Supreme Court's Decision Affects California's Local Governments") contains a 9-page summary of the witnesses' remarks, a staff background paper, and copy of the witnesses' extensive written materials. You may order copies directly from Senate Publications (916-651-1538) at a cost of $10.78 per copy.

Posted by claadmin at 4:37 PM

August 26, 2005

Deadline for Bills with Fiscal Impact Reached on Thursday

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

SENATE AND ASSEMBLY "HOLD" TWO BIG LIBRARY BILLS DUE TO COST PRESSURES AND POLICY CONCERNS

Thursday afternoon, the Senate Appropriations Committee and Assembly Appropriations Committee met to address their significant list of "suspense file" items. As you will recall, the so-called "suspense file" is a method by which both fiscal committees in each house automatically hold bills with a dollar value in excess of $150,000 so that each bill may be prioritized on their fiscal and policy merit. Then, on one single day, all fiscal bills are dispensed with and are either passed out of committee and sent to the Floor for vote, or held due to cost or policy concerns (ultimately rendering the bill "dead" for the year.) The "suspense file" process is nerve-wracking for lobbyists and legislators, as it is highly secretive, and one does not know until the minute the bill is announced whether or not it is going to be passed to the Floor or if it is headed to the "suspense" graveyard.

Yesterday, two bills that are being closely monitored by the CLA Legislative Committee, chaired by Mark Smith, were held on the "suspense file." Specifically, here are some of the details about the two bills held in committee yesterday:

SB 682-SIMITIAN: "THE IDENTITY INFORMATION PROTECTION ACT OF 2005"
"The bill requires that certain security measures be implemented into state and local government-issued identification documents that incorporate Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, with certain specified exceptions, and for three years, prohibits the use of RFID in four classes of government documents including: 1) drivers licenses, 2) ID cards issued to K-12 students, 3) government-issued medical benefit cards, and 4) library cards issued by a public library." (Source: Assembly Appropriations analysis)

Earlier in the year, we previously reported that our office received a call from the Senate Office of Research who was conducting confidential research on the use of RFID tags in library cards. When we polled the CLA Legislative Committee, they indicated that while the books and other materials at the library may contain RFID tags, the actual library cards have bar codes or another identifier, not RFID chips. We later received confirmation that it was Senator Simitian who commissioned the inquiry at Senate Office of Research. As many of you know, Senator Simitian has long been one of CLA's biggest supporters, and we believe he was trying to best determine how much libraries would be impacted by the measure in advance of SB 682 being introduced. A few days later we attended a comprehensive briefing by the sponsors of his bill, the American Civil Liberties Union and the Electronic Frontier Foundation. They explained the bill was prompted by a situation at a school in Northern California where students were asked to wear a badge containing an RFID tag, while on campus, to track their attendance at the school. Scanners were placed above doorways, etc. Parents objected to the invasive badges and the campus quickly disbanded the program. In April, the bill had two substantive hearings in the Senate Judiciary Committee, but no organized opposition was present at either hearing, which surprised us. The bill then passed the Senate Floor and headed over to the Assembly.

In the meantime, the CLA Legislative Team had established an excellent Task Force, consisting of Chair, Mark Smith (Riverside County Library System), Jackie Griffin of the Berkeley Public Library, and Kathleen Smith at the Fresno Public Library. They had significant concerns that because the RFID technology is "young yet, it would be detrimental to pass a piece of prohibitive legislation so early in the game," and requested that CLA submit language to Senator Simitian calling for an amendment to allow for future "hybrid" or permissive options. The public library could offer 1) a barcode system, or, 2) if the library offered an RFID card system and a barcode system, the patron could choose their style of card, using an opt-in approach, and would sign a waiver of informed consent if they chose the RFID model. Unfortunately, the author and the sponsor rejected our language and the prohibition for public library card usage remained in the bill.

The bill faced a much more difficult time in the Assembly Judiciary Committee. We spent a great deal of time speaking with committee staff regarding our concerns, and ultimately the thorough 11 page committee analysis posed the question: "The Committee may wish to explore with the author the possibility of permitting all educational institutions and libraries to use RFID technology with security protections." Despite the consultant's argument, the author was resistant to exempting public libraries from the bill, but agreed to exempt higher education, partially because the UC system, according to the analysis, "had already invested several million dollars into RFID technology for use on its campuses and in its libraries." At this hearing, a large coalition of opponents turned out, representing various electronics groups, including the American Electronics Association, Oracle, Texas Instruments, etc. and even the state's own Department of Consumer Affairs who is concerned with Homeland Security issues. At the end of the hearing, Chairman Dave Jones said, "I personally have concerns with limiting the technology and with the limiting of certain classifications of documents, but I know the author will continue to work with everyone." The bill passed on a vote of 6 "ayes" (all Democrats) and 3 "noes" (all Republicans).

Subsequently, the Assembly Appropriations Committee identified costs to state and local agencies of several dollars per card and several hundred dollars per reader station for the new, enhanced systems and massive encryption requirements that would be required under this bill. Also, the Committee consultant identified an unusual potential cost brought about by the bill - civil actions. The consultant warns SB 682 could cause "potential unknown cost to the state or local agencies to defend against civil actions brought pursuant to alleged non-compliance" and "potential costs for adverse judgments against the state or local agencies in such actions." In a surprise twist during Thursday's Appropriation's "suspense file" hearing, Assembly Appropriations Committee Chair, Judy Chu, announced that she would be holding "20 bills over as two-year bills. If you don't hear a bill number called out, that means we are holding on to it until January." SB 682-Simitian was one of the 20 bills held by the Committee, with the opportunity for it to be resurrected any time next year. However, the San Jose Mercury News is reporting that the Senator has stated that he would vow to "try to revive it before the Legislature adjourns for the year on Sept. 9." The Senator would need to obtain a significant amount of rule waivers and obtain the blessing of Assembly and Senate Leadership to be able to move his bill before the end of session, which would be quite difficult.

AB 1388: RIDLEY-THOMAS: ADVANCED TELECOMMUNICATIONS EDUCATION AND HEALTH ACCOUNT WITHIN THE CALIFORNIA TELECONNECT FUND ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE FUND

You may recall that several years ago there was a large surplus contained in the Teleconnect Fund, within the Public Utilities Commission Budget. As it was a tight Budget year during that session, the Budget Subcommittees and Budget Conference Committees voted to "borrow" $150 million from the Teleconnect Fund, as it appeared it was not being utilized and could assist the state in helping to balance the Budget. Since that time, a group of lobbyists (representing schools, libraries, and community based organizations), including CLA, have supported annual legislation that seeks to return some of the "loaned" money to the Teleconnect Fund. This year, AB 1388 by Assemblyman Mark Ridley-Thomas would direct the Public Utilities Commission to administer a grant program pertaining to telemedicine resources in urban and rural areas, and a grant program to "demonstrate the benefits of using the state's telecommunications networks to deliver supplemental education services. Grants may be made to: (a) entities which deliver services to pupils in grades 6 through 12, and (b) public libraries."

The Senate Appropriations Committee analysis noted that it "is difficult to estimate the potential cost pressures, because they would depend on the parameters of the grant programs created by the commission. Nevertheless, the costs could be millions of dollars annually through 2013, when the provisions of the bill sunset." Perhaps, not surprisingly, the committee chose to hold the bill on its "suspense file" rendering the measure dead for the year.

Posted by claadmin at 4:54 PM

July 11, 2005

Governor Signs Budget - Protects PLF From Further Cuts

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

Before noon today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed the 2005-06 State Budget in the majestic rotunda of the State Capitol building, only 11 days past the constitutional deadline for passage of a budget. Under heavy security, and flanked by legislative leaders and Budget Chairs from the Assembly and Senate, the Governor signed the $90 billion (General Fund) Budget and subsequently released a list of reductions. We are pleased to report that Governor Schwarzenegger chose to protect the baseline for the Public Library Foundation (PLF) at $14.1 million and did not make any further reductions to the fund. You may recall that in his January version of the Budget, the Governor had proposed a $2.2 million reduction to the PLF, and we worked with the Budget Subcommittees to restore that funding in the May Revision Budget process. Today CLA can declare a small victory, and offer sincere thanks to the Governor for his willingness to protect library funding in the 2005-06 Budget. Ultimately, the Governor and his staff had a choice to accept the Budget subcommittee action and agree to the $2.2 million restoration for the PLF, reject the $2.2 million augmentation entirely and revert back to the Governor's January Budget level, or make even further reductions to the PLF. Thus, with this Budget, the Governor and his staff made a conscientious decision to save the PLF from further reductions.

We would also like to report that the Budget signed today does not reflect any further cuts to any other library programs or State Library operations.

Posted by claadmin at 1:45 PM

July 7, 2005

Budget, PLF Funding Maintained

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist, Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

BUDGET BILL IS ON ITS WAY TO THE GOVERNOR

Budget Contains $14.1 Million Baseline Funding For Public Library Foundation

Today the Senate and Assembly took up SB 77 the Budget bill, and SB 80, the companion bill to the Budget bill, which reflects agreements reached by the Governor and four legislative leaders over the last few days. In addition, the two houses passed twelve so-called "trailer bills" to the Budget, in policy areas such as education, health and welfare, transportation, and corrections. Due to the nature of the agreements reached in the preceding days, and the appearance of the "united front" by the Governor and legislative leaders, lengthy floor speeches on the Budget today were held to a minimum. The Senate was quite succinct and a little more jovial during their presentation of the Budget on their Floor, while the Assembly was slightly more expansive in their discussion, and debate on some of the trailer bills became contentious.

In the Assembly, Budget Conference Committee Chair, John Laird presented the Budget bill and called it a "good news, bad news Budget. Nobody gets everything they want." However, he noted that he was pleased that it was the "earliest we have had a Budget in five years." Assemblyman Rick Keene, a Republican member of the Budget Conference Committee spoke next and called the Budget, "a substantial improvement from what we saw several weeks ago. This is the last year local governments will have to go without vehicle license fee funding (as the Budget repays the VLF gap loan) and it will make a big difference to local governments and police and fire." Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez encouraged a "unified vote on the Floor" and called SB 77 and SB 80 a "Budget that protects the values of Californians."

The Budget and corresponding "trailer bills" will now be sent to Governor Schwarzenegger for his action. Contained in the Budget bill is $14.1 million in baseline funding for the Public Library Foundation. You will recall that Governor Schwarzenegger, in his January version of the Budget, proposed to cut the PLF by $2.2 million. However, through our extensive lobbying of legislators, your grass roots efforts at Day In the District and CLA Legislative Day, and the good work of the Senate Budget Subcommittee and Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance, we were able to restore the $2.2 million. We would also like to thank the Legislative Analyst's Office who was very supportive of the PLF this year, and has been working with our office since January. You will also recall, at one point Senate Budget Subcommittee Chair Jack Scott said that he was hopeful there might be some one-time money available for the PLF. However, as time went on, staff told us it became very difficult to try to use one-time dollars for a program like the PLF - which clearly uses "ongoing dollars" which are built into our baseline and are a continuous appropriation. We are hopeful, that as the Governor reviews the Budget bill he does not use his "blue pencil" to reduce the $14.1 million baseline for the PLF any further.

Also of interest to libraries indirectly, is the action to fully repay the Vehicle License Fee Gap Loan, using one-time funds, in the amount of $1.2 billion. The Governor is choosing to pay off the loan two years earlier than required, using part of the windfall derived from the successful tax amnesty program.

We have spoken with several sources who have told us the Governor may sign the Budget bill as early as tomorrow, or the first part of next week. The minute we have details regarding the disposition of the PLF, we will send out an alert to the field.

Posted by claadmin at 1:25 PM

June 30, 2005

State Budget Update

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

ASSEMBLY DEMOCRATS BRING BUDGET UP ON FLOOR AGAIN - VOTE TABLED WHEN "BIG FIVE LEADERS" QUICKLY CONVENE TALKS

Facing the symbolic deadline of the end of the fiscal year, June 30th, the Assembly Democrats took the opportunity this afternoon to force a second vote on the state Budget bill, despite the understanding that they lacked the requisite Republican votes to attain a two-thirds vote for passage. In recent days, the Assembly Democrats have accused the minority party and Governor of holding up the Budget for political posturing. Republicans, however, claim that the Democrats Budget is not in balance, is not the so called "Governor's Budget," and spends one-time dollars for ongoing expenditures.

As Assembly Budget Chair, John Laird presented AB 77, the Budget bill, shortly before noon today. He noted, "Our actions today are not academic. Real people in the real world are dependent upon our actions. Last time the vote fell seven votes short and we heard your concerns." Assemblyman Laird then detailed a list of new budgetary solutions and compromises that utilized one-time funds, rather than so-called "on-going" dollars, including the full repayment of the vehicle license fee gap loan. He added, "There is really no excuse. If the Budget is not adopted, it is really for political purposes." Republican Assemblyman Keith Richman, who has been pressing for budget and pension reform, argued that he would be voting against the Democrats' new Budget package. He added, "This is really about making fundamental reforms in state government that are going to bring about fiscal responsibility and accountability. It is time to face up to the problems and not continue to put a band-aid on these issues." Democrat Assemblywoman Fran Pavley countered, "I intend to hopefully go home for the weekend and many of us will be in parades or giving speeches in honor of our country's declaration to be a free and independent nation, and I'm going to have to explain to my constituents why we're not passing this Budget...and frankly, they don't get it. They don't understand, why we can't pass a Budget that is 99 percent the Governor's May Revise."

After more than an hour and a half of debate on the Budget bill, Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez announced a surprise recess of the Floor to convene a brief meeting of the so-called "Big 5," consisting of the Governor and the four legislative leaders. The Assembly was then promptly placed into "lock down." Thanks to modern technology, one legislator's office received this text message/cry for help from a legislator on the Floor: "I'm bored." A short time later, the Assembly Speaker returned to the rostrum and reported that he would be tabling the vote on the Budget and would send his members home for the weekend, to return on Tuesday. As a side note, we were aware that many of the Democrat members were anxious to leave this afternoon to participate in the festivities beginning tonight surrounding the swearing in of former Assembly Speaker Antonio Villaraigosa as the newly elected Mayor of Los Angeles.

Meanwhile, in the Senate, Senate President pro Tem Don Perata has instructed all policy committees to stop holding hearings on bills as of next week until a Budget bill is passed. Thus, the Senate Energy, Utilities, and Commerce Committee scheduled a rarely-held Thursday hearing this morning, with an ambitious agenda, including AB 1388-Ridley-Thomas (a teleconnect bill, supported by CLA, which passed today with bi-partisan support). The committee was interrupted not less than three different times for two "emergency caucuses" called by the Senate President pro Tem, relative to the Budget, and one caucus called by the Senate Republicans. (If we had worn a pedometer today, we would have surely been impressed with our mileage logged running back and forth to the Capitol!) The Senate did not take up the Budget bill today, despite Senate President pro Tem Perata telling members yesterday to "bring their pajamas," as they would be locked in, until a Budget was passed. Late this afternoon, however, Senator Perata announced a vote would not be taken today, and instead negotiations between the "Big 5" would continue.

We will keep you posted.

Posted by claadmin at 5:55 PM

June 13, 2005

Support Yes! for Libraries

Submittted by Ann Cousineau, Chair, Yes! for Libraries

The campaign for the next library construction bond bill is swinging into high gear. No surprise, we need money to help us fund the campaign effort. To make it as easy and painless as possible to give, our web site is up and ready to accept online contributions. Go to yesforlibraries.com. You can give (no dollar amount is too small) as well as volunteer and/or sign up to be on on email list.

Passage of this bond bill is crucial to fund new public library buildings or remodel existing ones. Remember up to half of the $600 million in the bill can be used for projects that were left unfunded in the 3rd cycle of the Prop 14 bond bill.

Please help by making a contribution today and tomorrow and as many times as you can over the next year. It's a great cause and it will result in better libraries and better service for our communities.

Posted by claadmin at 1:30 PM

May 17, 2005

PLF, RFID Tags, LAO Budget Review

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEES REJECT $2.2 MILLION CUT TO PLF

Yesterday the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance began their review of the Governor's May Revision of the State Budget. After an overview of the May Revision by the Legislative Analyst's Office, and a spirited debate about the lack of sufficient K-12 funding in the Governor's newly revised document, the subcommittee addressed specific issues. The first item discussed on the agenda was the Public Library Foundation. As you will recall, the Governor is proposing a $2.2 million cut to the baseline of the program in the January version of his Budget, but was silent on any further reductions to the PLF in the May Revision. Senate Budget Subcommittee Chair, Jack Scott said, "I would like to propose that we deny the January proposal and restore $2.2 million to the Public Library Foundation. Public libraries in the state are very important at the present time, and we are wanting to add back in $2.2 million." The Governor's Department of Finance noted that they would not support the restoration of the $2.2. million, while the non-partisan Legislative Analyst's Office spoke in favor of the restoration, citing substantial cuts to the program over the last few years. CLA then testified, thanking the subcommittee for the action to restore the $2.2 million, quantified the significant cuts to the PLF, and requested that the subcommittee keep the PLF in mind for any additional one-time funds that might be identified. The restoration of $2.2 million to the baseline of the PLF was supported by all three subcommittee members: Senator Jack Scott, Senator Bob Margett, and Senator Joe Simitian.

This morning, the Assembly Budget Subcomittee on Education Finance similarly received a briefing by the Legislative Analyst's Office regarding the May Revision, and then immediately began moving through an extensive agenda, which included the PLF. CLA again testified, urging the subcommittee to restore the $2.2 million to the PLF and bring the fund to, at least, last year's level of baseline funding. We noted that while the statute calls for a 10 percent state match, the Governor's proposed level of funding equates to only 1.7 percent, which represents about 45 cents per capita. Subcommittee member Assemblywoman Lynn Daucher said, "I have a question of Finance. It is my understanding that if libraries took a cut, this is where they said it could come from." Finance responded, "Yes, we worked close with the State Library and this is where they chose to take the cut from." CLA responded that the State Library may have chosen the PLF as it does not have a matching federal fund component that would be jeopardized by additional cuts, but stressed that CLA would nonetheless like the PLF to be brought back to last year's level of funding, regardless. ($14.4 million ) The subcommittee ultimately decided to reject the Governor's January Budget and restore the $2.2 million to the PLF. The vote was 4 "ayes" to 2 "noes," with Democrat subcommittee members Chairman Mervyn Dymally, Wilma Chan, Joe Coto, and Jackie Goldberg voting "aye," and Republican subcommittee members Lynn Daucher and Bob Huff voting "no."

At the end of this week, the subcommittees will forward all of their recommendations to their full respective Budget Committees in each house. All recommendations will be put into Budget bill format and will be taken up on the Floor of each house, likely before the Memorial Day holiday. We expect both houses to reject the Budget bills, prompting the formation of the annual Budget Conference Committee process. At this time, we are hearing that the likely conferees to the Budget Conference Committee may be Assemblyman John Laird, Assemblyman Rick Keene, Assemblywoman Judy Chu, Senator Wes Chesbro, Senator Dennis Hollingsworth, and Senator Carole Migden. We will alert the field when these conferees are officially announced.

II. BILL BANNING RFID TAGS IN PUBLIC DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING LIBRARY CARDS, PASSES SENATE

The CLA Legislative Committee has been closely monitoring SB 682 by Senator Joe Simitian, which would enact the Identify Information Protection Act of 2005 and prohibit identification documents created, mandated, purchased, or issued by various public entities from containing a contactless integrated circuit or other device that uses radio waves (RFID) to broadcast personal information or to enable personal information to be scanned remotely. Included in the list of public documents that would be prohibited from using the RFID technology are: library cards issued by any public library, driver's licenses or identification cards, health insurance or benefit cards, benefit cards issued in conjunction with any government supported aid program, identification cards used by educational institutions, etc. Earlier in the year, Senator Simitian requested that the Senate Office of Research contact various entities and ask how they are using RFID tags. CLA was contacted by the Senate Office of Research and, after discussions with the CLA Legislative Committee, it was determined that while RFID tags were being utilized for book, video, materials check out purposes, CLA was unaware of any public library using the RFID technology in its actual library cards.

The bill is sponsored by the ACLU and the Electronic Frontier Foundation and is the result of a recent incident at Sutter School District in Northern California where the students were asked to wear a badge containing an RFID tag, while on campus, to track their attendance at the school. Parents objected to the invasive badges, and the campus quickly disbanded the program. Senator Simitian's staff has noted that as the readers for the RFID tags become more powerful, there is greater risk of identity theft and the potential of jeopardizing personal information. As Senator Simitian testified before a recent hearing on the bill in Senate Judiciary Committee, "They are now advertising home kits for $480 for RFID readers on the Internet. The potential is there for trouble." During a policy briefing session for Judiciary staff and interested parties, such as CLA, the Electronic Frontier Foundation stated, "The question is, with regard to these cards, do you really need to be broadcasting personal information, or could you use a bar code or magnetic strip and be forced to swipe it?" One Judiciary staff member asked, "How is this possibly enforceable? How will you ever know that your information has been scanned?" The ACLU responded that the bill, "will be very hard to enforce. You would have to determine that someone is counterfeiting documents, stolen your identity, etc," in order to prove guilt.

The bill had two lengthy policy hearings in the Senate Judiciary Committee, due to the complicated nature of the measure, yet there was no opposition to the bill. Yesterday afternoon, the bill was taken up on the Senate Floor. Senator Simitian, in his opening remarks, said that he was proposing a "go slow, think it through approach" when it comes to this type of technology and said he would invite input while the bill moves through the Assembly, regarding public document uses not yet considered. Senator Bill Morrow said that he was concerned that the technology could prohibit universal cards on university campuses that allow students to buy books, load funds on the card, etc. and would not want to limit these types of legitimate uses, but would agree to work with Senator Simitian. The bill passed the Senate Floor on a vote of 29 "ayes" to 7 "noes." The CLA Legislative Committee is establishing a task force of individuals who are familiar with RFID technology usage and issues regarding public libraries to assist us as the bill continues to move through the process.

III. LEGISLATIVE ANALYST'S OFFICE RELEASES REVIEW OF GOVERNOR'S MAY REVISION

Yesterday the Legislative Analyst's Office submitted their "Overview of the 2005-06 May Revision" and noted that the "general approach of the administration - in particular, using most of the new revenues for repayment of debt or for one-time purposes - makes sense, given the formidable structural budget shortfall facing the state." The LAO disagrees with the Governor's projections for revenues received in the 2004-05, claiming that the "administration has seriously overstated the 2004-05 year-end accrual adjustments that will be made to the personal income tax... we estimate that the over-estimate is approximately $625 million." The LAO also cautions that the May Revision continues to rely on assumptions that could portend "significant risks" and include reliance on $408 million in savings related to employee compensation from collective bargaining negotiations, savings of $469 million from the shift of funding in STRS retirement costs from the state to school districts, and $525 million in proceeds from the issuance of a pension obligation bond.

In the section entitled, "Considerations for the Legislature," the LAO says, "â€¦We believe the general approach the Administration has taken with respect to the additional revenues in its May Revision - namely, using them for debt reduction and one-time purposes - makes sense. This is because a significant amount of additional resources will be needed in 2006-07 to deal with the large budget shortfall we project for that year."

Posted by claadmin at 3:23 PM

May 15, 2005

CLA Library Advocates Attend National Library Legislative Day

Submitted by Mark Smith, Legislative Committee Chair

A delegation of 24 California library advocates attended the 31st annual National Library Legislative Day in Washington, D.C. May 3 and 4 to lobby for federal support for libraries. This year's delegation--organized and led by Barbara Custen, director of the Metropolitan Cooperative Library System--represents the largest number of attendees ever from California.

From left: CLA President Danis Kreimeier, Olyvia Rodriguez (Legislative Aide to Senator Dianne Feinstein), California State Librarian Susan Hildreth, and CLA members Barbara Jeffus, Ann Cousineau, Stephanie Beverage, and Debra Brighton.

While in Washington, the Californians visited the offices of all 53 congressional representative and both senators. In each office, attendees emphasized the following points:

To adopt the President's budgeted amount of $221.3 million for LSTA funding
To support $100 million in funding for Improving Literacy Through School Libraries
To ensure the continuation of E-Rate funding and support current legislation to permanently address accounting rules questions about the fund
To support bills that protect the freedom to read, including legislation that would amend the USA PATRIOT Act to return to previous standards for obtaining court orders to allow law enforcement access to library records

From left: Albert Tovar, Paymaneh Maghsoudi, Danis Kreimeier, Congressman Gary Miller, Margaret Donnellan Todd and Monica Penniger

Library supporters met with the staff of several key congressional representatives from California, including House Appropriations Committee Chair Jerry Lewis (R-Redlands) and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco). A number of National Leg Day attendees also met with the offices of the state's two U.S. Senators Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein.

The following librarians and library supporters participated in this year's National Library Legislative Day:

Buckley Barrett, California State University, San Bernardino
Stephanie Beverage, South Pasadena Public Library
Debra Brighton, El Segundo Public Library
Ann Cousineau, Solano County Library
Barbara Custen, MCLS
Carmen Hernandez, Alhambra Public Library
Susan Hildreth, California State Library (State Librarian)
Barbara Jeffus, California Department of Education
Patrick Keilty, American University Student
Danis Kreimeier, Yorba Linda Public Library (CLA President)
Monique LeConge, Richmond Public Library
Barbara Lockwood, Calabasas Public Library
Jane Lowenthal, Library of California
Paymaneh Maghsoudi, Whittier Public Library
Valerie Maginnis, Mission Viejo Public Library
Nancy Mahr, County of Los Angeles Public Library
John McGinnis, Cerritos College
Barbara Murray, Oxnard Public Library
Monica Penninger, Santa Fe Springs Public Library
Thad Phillips, Downey Public Library
Jean Scully, Redondo Beach Public Library
Mark Smith, Riverside County Library System
Margaret Donnellan Todd, County of Los Angeles Public Library
Albert Tovar, Azusa City Library

Posted by claadmin at 12:41 PM

May 13, 2005

Governor Releases "May Revise" Of Budget - No Changes To PLF or Other Library Programs

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

Shortly after 1 p.m. today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger presented his May Revision of the 2005-06 Budget, noting that while revenues are up, "the work is not over. We still have an estimated structural deficit of $4 billion. We have billions of dollars of inherited debt. The auto-pilot spending will create more pressures. The answer is not to feed an out-of-control spending machine." The May Revision document states that the "new estimates contained in this May Revision reflect a restored faith in the California economy. Revenues are increasing in the 2004-05 estimated personal income tax, and in the 2005-06 corporate tax." The Governor's May Revise goes on to caution, however, that with a national economic trend pointing "toward a slowing of the recovery nationally, and in California, after 2006...The result is that the new revenue we see cannot be counted on for the years thereafter. Accordingly, the prudent thing is to treat the largest portion of the new revenue predicted since January as one-time rather than permanent." The Governor proposes using some of these one-time dollars to pay for transportation projects, fund some education programs, and repay cities and counties almost $600 million in vehicle license fee reimbursements. Specifically, the Revise addresses the "Partial Vehicle License Fee Gap Loan Repayment" and provides $593.4 million to cities and counties for the VLF reimbursement they did not receive in 2003-04 due to the suspension of the VLF offset. The Revise argues, "Payment of the VLF gap loan is not required until 2006-07, but prepaying half of it in 2005-06 will relieve state budget pressure in that year by reducing debt and spreading the additional revenues to local governments over two fiscal years."

The Public Library Foundation and other library programs remain as proposed in the Governor's January Budget. You will recall that the Governor proposed a $2.2 million reduction to the PLF in his January version of the Budget, but the reduction has been met with opposition from the members of the Assembly and Senate Budget Subcommittees on Education who have jurisdiction over the State Library budget. Next week, the subcommittees will resume discussions and will begin reviewing the May Revision in more detail. Some time near the Memorial Day weekend, the subcommittees will finalize their recommendations, including action relative to rejecting or accepting the Governor's proposal regarding the PLF. The work of the subcommittees will be incorporated into the Assembly and Senate versions of the Budget. And, as is custom and practice, both houses will reject the Budget bills, forcing the appointment of the powerful six-member Budget Conference Committee. The Conference Committee will meet until a Budget is crafted that will be acceptable to Democrats, Republicans, and the Governor.

Posted by claadmin at 3:09 PM

May 11, 2005

Governor's Revised Budget, ACA 7

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. GOVERNOR WILL RELEASE "MAY REVISION" OF STATE BUDGET ON FRIDAY - TIME "TBA"

This Friday, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is scheduled to release his so-called "May Revision" or "May Revise" of his January Budget. The "May Revise," which is typically presented during the middle of May, allows the Governor and his Department of Finance to assess the state's fiscal condition since January, and make adjustments, offer new proposals, or suggest additional Budget augmentations or reductions. The Governor's Office and Department of Finance have not yet confirmed the time of the Governor's press conference and subsequent release of the May Revise document. As always, we will submit a report to the field as soon as the details of the May Revision are released on Friday (likely some time after noon).

II. ACA 7-NATION PASSES FIRST COMMITTEE: 55% VOTE FOR SPECIAL TAXES

Last week, Assemblyman Joe Nation presented his ACA 7, which would reduce the constitutional vote requirement for approval of a special tax, from a 2/3rds vote to a 55% majority vote. CLA is in support of ACA 7 as it would make it easier to pass much-needed local library funding measures, if the voters so desire. During his presentation on the bill before the Assembly Local Government Committee, Assemblyman Nation noted that the "current structure gives a small minority veto power over the majority," and later added, "It is incredulous for anyone to argue that the 2/3rds vote is fair." Testifying in support of the measure was the League of Cities, representatives of the parks and recreation association, CLA, and various local government lobbyists. Assembly Local Government Committee Chair, Simon Salinas stated that because of the problems associated with passing local taxes at the 2/3rds vote threshold, "My community planned to close the libraries - the home of John Steinbeck. Local communities need to be able to decide. What is more democratic than that?" Committee Vice Chair, Bill Emmerson countered, "A super-majority (vote) is not hard (to obtain) if you can effectively make your point." Assemblyman Nation then explained that in his district, Rohnert Park attempted to pass a local school tax, which failed by slightly more than 100 votes, and caused the district to cut $10 million from its budget, and close services like school libraries. The bill passed from committee on a straight party-line vote with all five Democrats voting "aye" and the two Republicans on the committee voting "no." ACA 7 now heads to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration. The challenge, as the bill moves through the process, will be for Assemblyman Nation to try to gain some Republican support, as ACA 7 will require a two-thirds vote for passage. Typically, bills that lower the threshold to raise taxes are strongly opposed by the majority of the Republicans in both houses.

Posted by claadmin at 4:41 PM

May 9, 2005

Let the Bond Fund Campaign Begin!

Ann Cousineau, Solano County Library Director, has announced the official start of the campaign to pass a $600 million bond for public library construction.

The bond measure will be decided by voters in a statewide referendum. It's slated for the June 2006 ballot. Passing the bond will require a minimum of $500,000 in campaign funds. Raising these funds will require the involvement of every member of CLA both as personal donors and as fundraisers in their communities.

Cousineau, who is serving as the chair of Californians for Literacy and Community Libraries, an organization formed to campaign for approval of the bond measure, launched the effort at CLA Legislative Day held April 20 in Sacramento. Library supporters present at the meeting contributed over $5,400 to start the campaign.

She reminded the group that any community with a project left unfunded at the end of the third round of the last bond had a particularly vested interest in the passage of the new bond. The new bond would dictate that up to half of the $600 million would go toward funding any project left unfunded at the end of the last bond.

How can you help?

Give - giving is easy online at http://yesforlibraries.com with either a Visa or Mastercard. Remit envelopes are also available and we'll be glad to send one to you. Just call campaign headquarters at 916-737-9325.

Volunteer - agree to be a fundraiser in your area. Take the challenge to cultivate at least $2,000 in contributions in your communities from Friends groups, businesses, and individuals.

Spread the word - tell your service groups, community groups, and library supporters about the campaign and draft volunteers in your communities that want to help.

Most of all, don't assume someone else is going to do this. Take the lead and be a pro-active fundraiser in your area. Your involvement is critical to the success of this project.

For more information and to volunteer to help, go to http://yesforlibraries.com or contact Ann Cousineau at acousineau@sbcglobal.net.

Posted by claadmin at 11:42 AM

April 25, 2005

Library Supporters Attend CLA/CSLA Legislative Day 2005

Over 220 library advocates converged on Sacramento from all parts of the state last Wednesday, April 20, for the 2005 California Library Legislative Day sponsored jointly by the California Library Association and the California School Library Association. Attendees spent the day meeting with their senators and state assembly representatives to discuss the need for greater resources to help library staffs better serve their users.

CLA President Danis Kreimeyer welcomed the group at the traditional kick-off welcome and orientation at the Sacramento Convention Center by reminding attendees of the important role that libraries play and the need for vocal advocacy for libraries. CLA Advocate Mike Dillon and CSLA Advocate Jeff Frost provided information on pending issues as well as tips for successful presentations to lawmakers. Also at the morning orientation, Solano County Librarian Ann Cousineau presented news from a task force formed to raise funds to pass the $600 million library construction bond before voters in June 2006. Cousineau kicked off the official fundraising with an appeal to attendees to both contribute personally and participate in the push to raise funds. Many attendees contributed on the spot!

CLA leaders meet with Senator Wesley Chesbro (center), chair of the Senate Budget Committee

All day Wednesday, Library Legislative Day advocates could be seen throughout the Capitol attending dozens of meetings with their elected representatives. A delegation of CLA leadership joined local constituents in their meeting with Senator Wesley Chesbro (D-Arcata), chair of the Senate Budget Committee. Attendees at this meeting thanked Senator Chesbro for his demonstrated support for libraries in past sessions and urged his attention to public and school library funding in drafting the 2005-06 budget.

A number of library advocates also had the opportunity to attend the confirmation hearing of State Librarian Susan Hildreth by the Senate Rules Committee. The committee unanimously confirmed Hildreth as Governor Schwarzenegger's appointee for the position following public testimony in support of the nomination by several prominent librarians and library supporters.

Posted by claadmin at 1:49 PM

April 8, 2005

Susan Hildreth's Confirmation, National Library Week

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist; Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. SENATE RULES COMMITTEE TO HOLD CONFIRMATION HEARING ON STATE
LIBRARIAN, SUSAN HILDRETH

On Wednesday, April 20, the Senate Rules Committee will meet to consider Governor Schwarzenegger's appointment of former CLA President, Susan Hildreth, as State Librarian. You may recall that Governor Schwarzenegger appointed Ms. Hildreth upon the retirement of Dr. Kevin Starr, but she has been serving as the "Acting State Librarian" until she has full confirmation by the State Senate. The five-member Senate Rules Committee has asked Ms. Hildreth to appear on the 20th, and she will be invited to give a brief opening statement. Members of the Rules Committee may then choose to ask her questions on a variety of subjects, pertaining to the office of State Librarian. Supporters are also welcome to come forward to make a brief statement about the appointment of Ms. Hildreth, and similarly the Committee will also hear from any opponents to the appointment. The Senate Rules Committee will then vote on the confirmation, and if she has sufficient votes, Ms. Hildreth's confirmation will be forwarded to the Senate Floor, where the entire house will vote on her confirmation.

The confirmation hearing of Susan Hildreth will be held the same day as CLA Legislative Day in Sacramento. If you are interested in being present at the hearing, and would like to add your name in support for the record, you may join us in room 113 at 1:30 p.m. at the Capitol. (Seating is extremely
limited.)

If you are interested in supporting the confirmation of Ms. Susan Hildreth as California's State Librarian by letter, please take a moment today to write the five members of the Senate Rules Committee. They are:

Senator Don Perata, Chair
Senator Jim Battin, Vice Chair
Senator Roy Ashburn
Senator Debra Bowen
Senator Gil Cedillo

Sample address:

The Honorable Don Perata
Chair, Senate Rules Committee
State Capitol
Sacramento, CA. 95814

RE: APRIL 20, 2005 CONFIRMATION HEARING OF SUSAN HILDRETH, STATE LIBRARIAN
- SUPPORT

II. ASSEMBLY FLOOR HONORS PUBLIC LIBRARIES DURING "NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK"

CLA is sponsoring House Resolution 8, by Assemblywoman Lois Wolk, relative to "National Library Week." Specifically, as National Library Week is being celebrated in public libraries throughout California from April 10 through April 16, 2005, CLA would like to recognize the importance of these great community resources. Assemblywoman Wolk was gracious enough to carry the resolution in the Assembly for CLA. HR 8 states that "the Assembly, during National Library Week, applaud the positive and vital impact of California's public libraries, librarians, and all library workers, and thank them for enriching the lives of residents and helping to make our state an exceptional place to live, learn, and work." The resolution became a "consent" item on the Floor this week, meaning that there was strong bi-partisan support for the measure and it was approved by a unanimous vote of those present.

Posted by claadmin at 11:55 AM

April 1, 2005

Volunteers Urgently Needed!

CLA and the CLA Legislative Committee need your help. Library Legislative Day is coming up April 20th, and we have several legislators who have no designated CLA contacts at this point. If you, or someone you know, are planning to attend Library Legislative Day, I urge you to consider being a legislative contact. Duties are simple: contact the legislator's office and request an appointment time, post the appointment on the Legislative Day Website (simple, easy process), attend the meeting along with others who sign up once it's posted on the website or recruit a colleague to attend if you are unable to do so. Please check the list below and see if any of the legislators listed serve your area. If they do and you're willing to take on the contact duties, let me know immediately.

Assembly:
Dave Cogdill (A25)
Mimi Walters (A73)
Lori Saldana (A76)
Jay La Suer (A77)
Juan Vargas (A79)

Senate:
Jeffrey John Denham (S12)
Abel Maldonado (S15)
Dick Ackerman (S33)
Joe Dunn (S34)

Thanks for your help.

Terri Maguire
County of Los Angeles Public Library
tmaguire@gw.colapl.org
(562) 940-8418

Posted by claadmin at 10:28 AM

March 31, 2005

PLF, Budget Update

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist
Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

ASSEMBLY BUDGET SUBCOMMITTEE INDICATES EARLY SUPPORT FOR HELPING PUBLIC LIBRARY FOUNDATION "This cut is penny wise and pound foolish."

Late yesterday afternoon, the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Education Finance met to consider Governor Schwarzenegger's January Budget for the California State Library, and the Public Library Foundation, specifically. You may recall that Governor Schwarzenegger is proposing a small $2.2 million cut to the Public Library Foundation, which would bring the baseline figure for the fund down to $12.1 million. While the proposed cut is considered relatively modest compared to some of the massive cuts proposed in other areas of the Budget, the total reduction to the PLF baseline since Budget Year 2001-02 is a whopping 79 percent. Despite the difficult Budget challenges facing the Governor and the Legislature this year, CLA was pleased when the Assembly Budget Subcommittee expressed their support yesterday to possibly reject the Governor's $2.2 million cut when they finalize their recommendations at the end of May.

The Assembly Budget Subcommittee is Chaired by Assemblyman Mervyn Dymally, and consists of Assemblymembers Wilma Chan, Joe Coto, Lynn Daucher, Jackie Goldberg, and Bob Huff. Yesterday marked the first time that the appointed State Librarian, and former CLA President, Susan Hildreth, appeared before the subcommittee on behalf of the State Library. Her presentation to the subcommittee was one of the best we've seen, and was well received by the members. CLA took the opportunity, during our testimony, to note that we were "exceptionally pleased to have Ms. Hildreth as the State Librarian. As you can tell, she is extremely sharp and a great advocate for libraries." State Librarian Hildreth noted that the "state's fiscal situation is a difficult one. While we have some decreases in our programs, it is not as bad as the past four Budget years. We are stabilizing somewhat." In speaking specifically to the PLF, she noted, "It is a critical fund for public libraries, and is the only clear and consistent way that the state supports libraries." Lastly, she thanked the members for their support of Senator Alpert's 2004 library bond bill, sponsored by CLA, which will appear on the June 2006 ballot, and added that there was considerable demand for library projects throughout the state. When asked by Chairman Dymally what her "vision" was for the State Library as "the new kid on the block," Ms. Hildreth referred to libraries as "the great equalizer" and commented that the Internet had not decreased usage in libraries, but rather had significantly increased usage. She also spoke to the current situation in Salinas, where the entire public library system is facing closure, and offered that libraries are community centers, a "neutral place where people can exchange ideas."

During our testimony regarding the Governor's proposed reduction to the Public Library Foundation, we gave the subcommittee (which contains a few new members) a brief historical overview of the fund and how and why it was created, and spoke to the significance of the state funding for the program. We presented our new "79 % cut chart" which had been updated to reflect the Governor's proposed $2.2 million cut, and explained how the decrease in funding has led to fewer materials purchases, loss of staff, reduced hours at branches, etc. Lastly, we discussed an article that appeared in the Sacramento Bee this weekend, and featured Sacramento Public Library Director Anne Marie Gold and some remarkable statistics regarding the sizeable increase in demand for Internet service at the Sacramento branches. We noted that while the state's deficit is considerable, CLA would nonetheless appreciate help in restoring some of the cuts to the program as soon as possible.

Following our testimony, the representative from the Legislative Analyst's Office concurred that the reductions to the PLF were significant and said that since the Governor's Budget makes "pretty substantial restorations to higher education" in a particular area, "I think you could find $2 million for the PLF." He concluded, "It seems like they've given more than their share." The Department of Finance was then asked to comment, and stated, "We support the Governor's Budget, given the state's fiscal condition."

Subcommittee member, Assemblywoman Jackie Goldberg said, "The fund was at $56 million when I first arrived. What this means to low income areas: it means that collections are not up to date, or doors are closed on the weekends, or closed at night. This cut disproportionately hurts people who are striving to get ahead. This cut is penny wise and pound foolish. I hope that we could find $2 million or even $4 million." Echoed Chairman Dymally, "I'm looking at this 79% chart. Is reading not important to us? What a sad commentary." Assemblyman Joe Coto told the subcommittee, "This PLF reduction is much too dramatic. I won't support the Governor's Budget on this." Assemblywoman Goldberg, emphasizing the serious nature of the 79% cut, said, "The last time I went to the library, I was told that they didn't have the book I wanted because they couldn't afford it." Ultimately, the subcommittee decided to approve the State Library's Budget, but first, removed two items: the Public Library Foundation and the California Civil Liberties Public Education Act. With regard to the latter item, the committee would like to consider an evaluation of the Civil Liberties program, at the request of subcommittee member Assemblywoman Daucher. She believes that where there are good examples of programs that were awarded funds, the programs could be replicated statewide. With regard to the Public Library Foundation, the subcommittee decided that they would like to revisit the funding level for the program after the so-called "May Revision" of the Budget, when the subcommittee will have a better idea of the state's fiscal health.

In the meantime, you may wish to write the members of the Assembly and Senate Budget Subcommittees on Education Finance. In your letters to the Assembly subcommittee you may thank the members for their initial support of the PLF and hope that when they consider the issue again after the May Revision, that they restore the $2.2 million. The Senate Subcommittee will hear the issue on Monday, April 25. In your letters to the Senate subcommittee, you should ask them to reject the Governor's proposed $2.2 million reduction to the PLF. Lastly, in your letters, please mention the types of impacts on services the overall 79 percent reduction has meant or will mean to your library - reduced hours, can't purchase bookmobiles or materials, loss of staff positions, etc.

Assembly Budget Subcommittee Number Two on Education Finance

Chair, Assemblyman Mervyn Dymally
Member, Assemblywoman Wilma Chan
Member, Assemblyman Joe Coto
Member, Assemblywoman Lynn Daucher
Member, Assemblywoman Jackie Goldberg
Member, Assemblyman Bob Huff

Sample address:

The Honorable Mervyn Dymally
Chair, Assembly Budget Subcommittee Number Two on Education Finance State Capitol Sacramento, CA. 95814

Senate Budget Subcommittee Number One on Education Finance

Chair, Senator Jack Scott
Member, Senator Bob Margett
Member, Senator Joe Simitian

Posted by claadmin at 4:28 PM

CLA Honors Senator Alpert

Submitted by Mark Smith, Legislative Chair

Former Senator Dede Alpert is the recipient of an Honorary Membership
in the California Library Association and a Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of her advocacy on behalf of California Libraries. Alpert received this recognition, along with an award from the Serra Library Cooperative, at a luncheon with several California librarians in Coronado on March 24.

Senator Alpert (left) receives CLA's
Lifetime Achievement Award from
Danis Kreimeier, CLA President

Senator Alpert received the award for her extensive support for library initiatives while in the California State Senate, in particular, her sponsorship and support for legislation that would set aside nearly $1 billion in funding for library construction projects. Legislation creating the first bond fund in the amount of $350 million was co-sponsored by Alpert and approved by voters in 2000. This was the largest one-time appropriation ever for library construction in any state. Last year, Senator Alpert sponsored legislation that would have voters approve a bond of $600 million for public library construction. Not only did the senator sponsor the bill, but she worked hard to ensure that Governor Schwartzenegger sign the bill. That bond will be on the ballot for voters in June 2006.

In receiving her award, Senator Alpert commented that she very much appreciated the Lifetime Achievement Award, but she really valued the honorary membership in the California Library Association because of the important work that librarians do for their communities. Senator Alpert commented that she had taken on some work lately with a lobbying firm, but that she was also enjoying having more time to spend with her grandchildren.

Posted by claadmin at 10:29 AM

March 25, 2005

Register Now for Library Legislative Day

This is your opportunity to remind legislators that all types of libraries are important to their constituents and to make our presence felt in Sacramento. Library staff and library supporters are needed to tell our story--how our libraries have improved the lives of Californians and why continued support is imperative during these tough economic times.

This year's registration is scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM at the Sacramento Convention Center, 1400 J Street, Sacramento. Our program will begin at 8:30 AM and will provide a briefing on the issues prior to your legislative visits. Position papers and fact sheets for Library Legislative Day 2005 will be available on the CLA website no later than April 10.

You may register online, at www.cla-net.org and receive immediate confirmation, or you may go to the CLA website, http://www.cla-net.org/legislation/legday.php and print out a form and mail or fax it to the office. Cost for Legislative Day is $25 in advance, $30 at the door.

Once you register, you are ready to sign up for appointments with your legislators. The appointments with legislators are being made and posted on the CLA website by the Legislative Contacts. Once an appointment time has been posted, interested participants should add their names to the list on the website. It's important that you sign up for your appointments in advance through the website, http://www.cla-net.org/legislation/legday.php , so that the Legislative Contacts can give legislative offices an estimate of how many people will be attending each meeting. If no appointment is listed, please check back periodically as it sometimes takes several days for Legislative Contacts to confirm an appointment time.

If you have questions, please feel free to contact the CLA office at 916-447-8541, or info@cla-net.org.

See you in Sacramento on April 20.

Posted by claadmin at 2:29 PM

March 8, 2005

Library Advocates Visit Legislators

Submitted by Mark Smith, Legislative Chair

Dozens of librarians and library advocates met with state, local and national representatives on January 28 and February 4 to urge lawmakers to support libraries. The visits were planned as part of the fourth annual "CLA Day in the District," an event that encourages CLA members and other library supporters to visit their legislators in their home offices. Because of the difficulties of scheduling all visits on a single day, two successive Fridays were designated as Day in the District days.

Over the two Day in the District days, library advocates held 98 meetings with California Assembly members and Senators and with U.S. congressional representatives.

Why does CLA have a Day in the District when there is already an annual CLA Legislative Day? The answer is twofold: first, Day in the District offers CLA members who may not be able to travel to Sacramento a structured opportunity to visit with their legislators. Second, and more important, visiting legislators in their district is a more relaxed encounter that allows library supporters to establish and foster long-term connections to their elected representatives. Day in the District is held in late January or early February while the demands of the legislative session are such that members are able to be in their home offices, and on Fridays, a day when most legislators are home.

Whether you are a seasoned library advocate, or you have never before participated in legislative activities, Day in the District provides a fun and enjoyable way to meet your elected officials while informing them of matters of importance to your library.

Posted by claadmin at 10:52 AM

March 3, 2005

ALA/CLA Salinas Visit Report

By Michael Gorman, ALA President Elect

A delegation of library leaders, including Linda Crowe, representing the Monterey Bay Area Cooperative Library System, of which Salinas Public Library is a member; Michael Gorman, ALA President-Elect; Susan Hildreth, California State Librarian; John Kallenberg, former CLA President and former Fresno County librarian; Danis Kreimeier, CLA President; and Vickie Johnson, California Chapter ALA Councilor, met with Salinas community leaders on February 23, 2005 regarding the plan to close all three libraries in the city.

What we learned about Salinas
The overall feel of a long day of meetings was very positive, and the conversations with elected leaders were very frank. While I believe we all were aware the city was financially strapped and the decision to cut library service was not made heedlessly, the presentations we were provided showed the accumulated impacts of a $419 per capita revenue base, decreased sales tax revenue, state raids on city revenue, county charges, increased health and pension costs, and high investments in police and fire (70+ cents on the tax dollar for police alone). It was very clear that the city was left holding the bag for struggling state and county budgets.

It also was stressed that the elimination of library services came only in the third round of cuts implemented by the City Council. Library hours were reduced from 57 to 32 hours per week for the past two fiscal years, and circulation of library materials has fallen proportionately. As context, however, the city's crossing guard program, neighborhood services program and graffiti abatement program were eliminated in the same time period.

It was announced at a press conference given by Mayor Anna Caballero, that the libraries have bought themselves at least a short reprieve. The City Council will meet Tuesday to discuss the likelihood of the libraries maintaining current service levels through the end of the fiscal year, rather than beginning to phase out service in March, as was planned.

The Mayor also announced in that press conference that the pledges and amounts raised to day bring fundraising to $158,000 over three weeks for Rally Salinas! - well on the way to the $500,000 goal by June 30. The $500,000 will allow library service one day a week at all three branches, hopefully through the end of the year, by which time another ballot measure is anticipated. Staffing will be provided by a "team" of library workers, which will rotate through the three libraries during the week. Each library served a very specific purpose and audience and closing one library over another was not a viable solution.

A significant portion of the day was spent discussing the pros and cons to various tax measure options. The City Attorney provided the City Council a report on February 15 outlining the options, which focus on either a general tax or a special tax geared for libraries (or other services). To get a general tax on the ballot before November 2006, the city would need to declare an "emergency." The declaration of an emergency could be challenged in court. A special tax could be put to voters as early as June 7, 2005, but would require the Council to call for the election by March 11. In California, a general tax measure requires a simple majority vote, while a special tax measure requires a two-thirds majority. Polling is the most immediate next step, and state representatives committed to providing technical assistance.

Overall, the delegation's visit was highly visible, with coverage in print and broadcast outlets. Attendance at the evening's public meeting was quite good - with about 150 people in attendance. While it was clear the city was in dire financial straits, the national attention they have received appears to have galvanized the Mayor's Rally Salinas! and the grassroots Save Salinas Libraries efforts.

What's next
The ALA and CLA committed to:

Provide testimony is support of the city's declaration of "emergency," if this is the determination by the City Council

Share data, studies and information that will buttress the argument for the necessity of libraries in the 21st Century

Provide guidance and possibly some in-kind assistance for polling efforts (state level)

Make available national and state library leaders to speak at major events and support marketing efforts

Provide technical support for crafting ballot measure and conducting polling

Delegation members will continue to work with Salinas-designated representatives: Deputy City Manager Jorge Rifa and Friends of the Salinas Libraries President Lynne Steele.

Posted by Neekdesign at 9:47 AM

February 25, 2005

Salinas Visit Recap

By Danis Kreimeier, CLA President

On Wednesday, February 23, a delegation of ALA and CLA leaders met with the Salinas mayor, council members and city staff to learn about the situation facing Salinas' libraries. The delegation learned of the tremendous budget shortfalls that the City is facing and listened to the possible solutions the City, the Council, and the citizens are working toward. It was a very long but informative day for all involved.

The day began at Mayor Anna Caballero's press conference where she announced that Rally Salinas has already raised $158,275 towards the $500,000 goal to keep the libraries open on a limited basis until the end of the year. Lucy Pizarro, owner of the Chapala Restaurant, announced that the restaurant would donate 10% of all proceeds every Wednesday to Rally Salinas. She also encouraged other businesses to join her in her efforts. Ms. Pizarro's commitment to and passion for Salinas' libraries was evident when she stated that "a community without a library is not a healthy community."

Then the delegation met with Assistant City Manager Jorge Rifa who gave an in-depth analysis of Salinas' current budget crisis. Next was a lively conversation with residents who represented the local businesses, Friends of Salinas Libraries, "Save Salinas Libraries" (a grassroots PAC), and members of the mayors Blue Ribbon Committee. The discussion mainly centered on the pros and cons of a general tax initiative vs. a tax initiative targeted specifically for the library. Either option has many different issues to overcome. Only Salinas, its leaders and residents, can decide what is best for their community. ALA and CLA offered support in the way of research and reports that could be helpful.

In the evening, the delegates attended a "Save Salinas Libraries" meeting where Michael Gorman gave a brief talk and answered questions from the audience. After the question and answer period, the attendees broke out into discussion groups with each group focusing on various needs of the campaign such as public relations, fundraising and other topics. With such a well planned meeting and focused group of concerned library supporters I expect that they will run a successful campaign. If you are interested in donating to "Save Salinas Libraries" visit www.savesalinaslibraries.org or click on the logo above.

I would like to thank Mayor Anna Caballero, City Manager Dave Mora, Assistant City Manager Jorge Rifa, library staff and the community for their time and their gracious hospitality during such a distressful time. Visiting Salinas and spending a day with the people who care most about its libraries, the residents and officials, I know that they will work hard to find a solution to their current crisis and CLA will be there with any information need they might have, ready to assist when asked.

Posted by claadmin at 8:59 AM

February 7, 2005

State Budget Update

To: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

From: Mike Dillon, CLA Lobbyist
Christina Dillon, CLA Lobbyist

Subject: LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

I. LITTLE HAPPENING IN SACRAMENTO
Subsequent to the Governor's speech, where he discussed his initiatives and the submission of his Budget, little has been happening in Sacramento. In response to the Governor's major initiatives - Legislative Redistricting, a cap on State Expenditures, changing STRS & PERS to defined contribution plans, eliminating teacher tenure - both the Assembly and the Senate Democrats have planned hearings throughout the state for "public input" on the Governor's plan. Budget Subcommittee hearings are also scheduled in Sacramento on major provisions of the Governor's Budget.

Meanwhile, the Governor had intended for the Senate and Assembly to begin holding hearings on his reforms, immediately at the Capitol, in a January and February "Special Session." Now, both the Governor and Legislature have been recently engaged in verbal jousting matches, as the legislature claims they are awaiting "greater detail" on the Governor's reforms before hearings at the Capitol can commence, while the Governor is chiding the legislature for their perceived "inactivity."

II. PRELIMINARY REVIEWS OF THE GOVERNOR'S PROPOSED BUDGET
Last week, both the Assembly and Senate Budget Subcommittees held brief overview hearings on the Governor's proposed 2005-06 State Budget. Assemblyman John Laird, new Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, opened the Assembly hearing by stating that this "is one of the most difficult budget years in California's history." He went on to add that this year's budget process would involve hearings throughout the state so that "the people of California could be heard." Meanwhile, on the Senate side, new State Finance Director (and former State Senator and Congressman) Tom Campbell, attempted to defend the Governor's radical proposal to trigger across-the-board cuts in all areas of the Budget, in future years when expenditures exceed revenues. Legislators cautioned that K-12 education and health and human services would likely bear the brunt of those cuts. The budget bills, Assembly Bill 90 (Laird) and Senate Bill 52 (Chesbro), will serve as the budget bills for the Assembly and Senate, respectively. Multiple "trailer bills" will also be introduced in both houses as vehicles for statutory changes necessary to implement the final budget agreement.

III. LAO OVERVIEW OF THE GOVERNOR'S BUDGET
Elizabeth Hill, the State Legislative Analyst, recently released her office's Overview of the Governor's Budget. The overview states, "The Governor's proposal contains significant programs' savings, particularly in K-12 education, social services, transportation - - and borrowing to address the State's 2005-06 budget shortfall. While the 2005-06 proposal has several positive attributes, it falls well short of addressing the State's ongoing projected fiscal imbalances. Moreover, its budget reform proposals would put more future state spending on 'cruise control' and hamper the ability of future policy makers to establish budget priorities." In her remarks before the Budget Subcommittees, she noted that the Governor's proposed Budget would take care of only one-half of the $10 billion deficit problem the State is facing in 2006-07. The Analyst's actual analysis of the Governor's Budget is not due out until the last week in February. The traditional two-inch thick document will be the starting point for various subcommittees in both the Assembly and Senate to begin discussions on the Governor's Budget, starting in early March. In the meantime, with the final bill introduction deadline of February 18th, relatively few bills have been introduced to-date. Consequently, there is little activity around the Capitol these days with brief Senate and Assembly Floor Sessions on Mondays and Thursdays only.

Posted by claadmin at 8:02 AM

January 10, 2005

Governor's Budget - Proposed cuts to PLF, Library Development and English Aquisition programs

TO: CLA MEMBERS/ SYSTEMS/ NETWORK CONTACTS

FROM: Mike Dillon, Lobbyist
Christina Dillon, Lobbyist

RE: NEWS FROM THE CAPITOL

I. GOVERNOR PRESENTS 2005-06 BUDGET - RELATIVE SIGH OF RELIEF FOR LIBRARIES

Shortly after 1 p.m. this afternoon, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger presented his much-anticipated 2005-06 Budget, as required by law, in a large conference room able to accommodate the massive press corps presence. The Governor referred to the document as "an honest Budget to meet the state's needs." He referred to a series of graphs and charts "which show the lunacy of our current system. We have $5 billion in revenues, and $10 billion in required expenditures. If we don't resolve this, we will have deficits as far as the eye can see." He later added, "Increasing taxes is out of the question - we don't have a revenue problem, we have an expenditure problem and a formula problem." As previously reported, the state is facing a massive $8 billion Budget deficit for the 2005-06 Budget year, and a potential $10 billion deficit the following year, absent corrective actions.

In recent weeks, as information leaked out in the press about the Governor's plan to cut deeply into departments and programs to balance the Budget, we feared that the Public Library Foundation would be particularly vulnerable to a sizeable reduction or total elimination. Thus, we were surprised, and somewhat pleased, to see that Governor Schwarzenegger has proposed only a modest reduction to the Public Library Foundation of $2.2 million, leaving $12.1 million in the fund. While we would obviously prefer no reduction in the PLF baseline, we thank the Governor for recognizing the importance of preserving the fund in these difficult Budget times. Specifically, the Governor's Budget
states:

6120 California State Library

Local Assistance: Due to the State's fiscal crisis, we have reduced the Public Library Foundation by $2.2 million, Library Development [CLSA] by $828,000, and English Acquisition programs by $276,000 for a total of $3.3 million.

The Governor did provide a $329,000 General Fund augmentation for the acquisition and implementation of a replacement automated library system to support the CSL's Braille and Talking Book Library operations.

II. GOVERNOR CALLS "SPECIAL SESSION" TO ADDRESS BUDGET
AND OTHER KEY ISSUES

On January 6, 2005, Governor Schwarzenegger presented a proclamation to the legislature, calling for a "Special Session" of the Assembly and Senate to consider four major areas of reform. Specifically, the Governor wants the following four areas addressed, in an expedited manner during the 2005 session: 1) budget reform so that "government will be better able to keep spending within the amount of available revenues and thereby avoid budget deficits," 2) legislation to reform the pension system "for future government employees from one that provides retirees a defined retirement benefit, to one that requires the state to pay a defined or fixed contribution each year into employee pension accounts," 3) merit pay for teachers, 4) legislative boundary "redistricting."

When asked today how he intends to proceed with the special session, in the event that the legislature does not pass his reforms, the Governor told a member of the press, "I want to work with the legislators. The legislators were sent to Sacramento to do the work. When it breaks down, then we go to the people." The Governor stated in his State of the State address last week that he is looking toward the summer months to call a special election for the public to consider these reforms.

Posted by claadmin at 9:08 AM

January 4, 2005

Welcome to the CLA Weblog

Welcome to the CLA Blog! We will be adding articles to each of the main categories to your left. Our most recent articles will appear here on our weblog home page. You can also scan through the archives by Month or Recent Entries or use the Search this site tool to your left.

You can stay updated with CLA's blog by visiting regularly, following CLA's Facebook and Twitter pages, and by adding the blog to your RSS feed. For more information on RSS, click here.

We hope you enjoy reading our articles!

Posted by claadmin at 6:00 PM

Archives by Month

Recent Entries

Search Weblog

CLA Weblog Submissions

Advocacy & Legislation

August 26, 2010

RESPONSE TO RECENT QUESTIONS REGARDING THE PLF "MAINTENANCE OF EFFORT"

July 7, 2010

Snapshot: One Day in the Life of California Libraries

July 2, 2010

News From The Capitol

June 25, 2010

A Tribute to David Sabsay

May 26, 2010

News from the Capitol

May 14, 2010

News from the Capitol

March 26, 2010

Join Us on April 16th for Day in the District

March 25, 2010

News from the Capitol

March 9, 2010

Critical Action Alert: Public & School Libraries Need Our Help

February 16, 2010

CLA & CSLA Announce Joint Library Advocacy Event

February 1, 2010

Urgent Message to Library Advocates

January 21, 2010

News from the Capitol

January 8, 2010

GOVERNOR RELEASES 2010 BUDGET: NO CUTS TO LIBRARY PROGRAMS

December 17, 2009

Interim Hearings at the Capitol

December 11, 2009

California Library Association Names New Chief Executive Officer

November 18, 2009

Legislative Analyst's Office Projects $20.7 Billion Budget Problem

October 15, 2009

News from the Capitol

October 13, 2009

Become a Library Advocate @ CLA's Annual Conference

California Library Association Passes Resolution to Restore Civil Liberties: USA PATRIOT Act

September 23, 2009

State Capitol Update

August 18, 2009

State Capitol Update

Legislative Committee Update

July 28, 2009

GOVERNOR SIGNS BUDGET AND PROTECTS PUBLIC LIBRARIES FROM "BLUE PENCIL" VETOES

July 24, 2009

ALL-NIGHTER AT THE CAPITOL PRODUCES A BUDGET

LEGISLATURE TAKES A BREAK - MORE WORK TO BE DONE

July 21, 2009

News from the Capitol

LEGISLATIVE LEADERS REACH A BUDGET DEAL - IMPACT ON LOCAL GOVERNMENT WILL BE SIGNIFICANT

July 16, 2009

News from the Capitol

July 15, 2009

News from the Capitol

Legislative Business Continues While Budget Deal Remains Elusive

July 1, 2009

LEGISLATURE MISSES IMPORTANT BUDGET DEADLINE - CAUSES BUDGET PROBLEM TO SWELL TO $26.3 BILLION

May 14, 2009

News from the Capitol

May 12, 2009

Video from LegDay Press Conference

May 7, 2009

News from the Capitol - Update

News from the Capitol

April 16, 2009

LegDay a Success!

March 25, 2009

Letter to Senate Rules Committee Regarding CLA's Sponsored Resolution

March 23, 2009

Testimony Before the PUC Concerning Federal Stimulus Funds for Broadband in CA

National Library Legislative Days Approaching

February 20, 2009

GOVERNOR SIGNS 2009-10 BUDGET - NO CUTS TO LIBRARY PROGRAMS

February 18, 2009

Late-Night Leadership Change in Senate while Senators are in Budget "Lockdown"