The Question

Should the state authorize $10 billion in bonds to build new, or renovate existing, public school and community college facilities?

The Situation 

The Legislature placed Proposition 2 on the ballot. 

California has approximately 10,000 public schools and 115 community colleges. Many schools and community colleges have older, outdated facilities. Many need health and safety repairs, renovations, and new classrooms. According to a 2020 publication from the Public Policy Institute of California, 38% of California students attend schools that don’t meet minimum facility standards. This includes 25% of students attending schools with damaged floors, walls, or ceilings, and 14% attending schools with malfunctioning electrical systems. 15% of students attend schools with extreme deficiencies, such as gas leaks, power failures, and structural damage. The state and the school districts usually share the cost for renovation and new construction almost equally.  The state uses voter-approved bonds for its share of these costs.

The Proposal

If passed, Proposition 2 would authorize $10 billion in state general obligation funds for repair, upgrade, and construction of facilities at K-12 public schools (including charter schools) and community colleges. Of that amount the bonds would be allocated in the following way: 

• $8.5 billion (or 85% of total bond amount)  for public schools, including charter schools. 
• $1.5 billion (or 15% of total bond amount)  for community colleges.
• A small portion of new construction and renovation funds must be set aside for small school districts. 
• Up to $115 million to be used to reduce lead levels in water at public school sites. 
• The state would pay a higher share of project costs for school districts with lower assessed property values and have a higher share of students who are low-income, English learners, or foster youth.

Fiscal Effects

The state’s estimated cost to repay this bond would be about $500 million each year for 35 years. The effect on local governments would depend on the choices that school districts and community colleges make about building repairs and new buildings.

Supporters Say

• Provides funding for outdated facilities needing repairs and upgrades to meet basic health safety standards.
• Provides strict taxpayer accountability protections.
• Protects local control. Funding can only be used for projects approved by local school and community college districts, with local community input.

Opponents Say

• California already has over $109 billion of outstanding and unissued bonds.
• Sacramento politicians overspend, issue bonds, and punish us with tax hikes.
• Tell politicians to prioritize education funding over free healthcare for illegal immigrants in our state budget.

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