SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Student Senate for California Community Colleges (SSCCC) appreciates Governor Newsom’s continued dedication to California’s community college students in the 2023 - 24 January budget proposal. SSCCC supports the significant 8.13% cost-of-living-adjustment, increased funding for the Higher Education Student Housing Grant Program, and full implementation of Cal Grant reform.
“It is clear, through both prior investments and the proposal Governor Newsom has put forward for this budget year, that Governor Newsom has not overlooked the lessons learned from the Great Recession: that cutting funding for higher education, especially community colleges, can be disastrous and counterproductive during economic hardship.” Stephanie Goldman, Associate Director
“We are grateful that Governor Newsom’s proposal is essentially in agreement with the SSCCC on many points of its 2022-2023 legislative priorities: that the enrollment crisis is one of the most pressing matters facing the California community college system right now, that the ongoing housing affordability crisis impacts the ability of students to continue their education, and that existing and expanded pathways to debt-free college ought to be protected.” Zachariah Wooden, Vice President of Legislative Affairs
“We are encouraged by Governor Newsom’s continued support of California’s Community Colleges and its students, even as California faces a revenue decline. While we appreciate the 8.13% cost-of-living-adjustment and expansion of the Higher Education Student Housing Grant Program, we must continue fighting for a debt-free college experience, including full implementation of Cal Grant reform. Budgets are ultimately value statements and we look forward to working with the Administration and the Legislature on ensuring this budget is equitable and student-centered.” Clemaus Tervalon, President
The California Community Colleges is the largest system of higher education in the nation, composed of 73 districts and 116 colleges serving 1.8 million students per year. The Student Senate for California Community Colleges mission is to enrich the collegiate experience for all California community college students by pursuing policies that will improve student access and success while engaging and empowering local student leaders and honoring equity and diversity.
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