Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez released the following statement after the California State Assembly voted to approve the 2015-16 state budget:
“The budget we passed today invests in California’s future. It restores critical funding to programs cut during the recession and safeguards our future by depositing $4.2 billion to our rainy day fund.
I am pleased that this budget includes significant investments in education. We continue to increase access to higher education by providing the UC and CSU systems with increased funding for enrollment and student support services. Additional funding allows us to also expand financial aid programs including increasing the Competitive Cal Grant Awards and the Cal Grant B Access Awards.
There is also additional funding of $400 million for the Career Technical Incentive Grants and $29 million to support existing and new apprenticeship programs at the community colleges. Today’s economy requires a trained and skilled workforce. Providing students with on-the-job training skills in high schools and community colleges will better prepare them for high-wage high-demand jobs.
This year we successfully restored access to quality healthcare for thousands of Californians by increasing Medi-Cal provider rates that were cut during the recession.
Although this budget continues to reflect our commitment to increasing access to healthcare and the justice system, I am disappointed this budget cuts the Governor’s proposed $40 million for City Law Enforcement Grants. Improving public safety is one of my top priorities and I will continue to work to make sure our law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to protect our communities.”
Assemblymember Rodriguez represents the 52nd Assembly District which includes the cities of Chino, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona and portions of unincorporated Fontana