Members Lobby for Education in Sacramento

Join the next trip and tell legislators to Stop the Cuts

Local 99 members traveled to Sacramento to let legislators know how Governor Schwarzenegger's proposed budget cuts will impact our schools, jobs and communities. Governor Schwarzenegger has proposed cutting $4.8 billion from the state's education budget. These cuts will have a devastating impact on our students. And they'll mean possible layoffs for school workers.



Members shared their concerns with assembly members and senators and urged them to find ways to protect the vital public services we all depend on. Demond Cohen, a Local 99 member who joined the first wave of member lobbyists in Sacramento said, "I came here for the kids ... If we cut staff, kids will be on top of kids in overcrowded classrooms. We won't be able to serve them with the extra attention that they need to be educated. It will be watered-down instruction ... We're here on the front lines and we need help, not cuts."


Many legislators said that the state is in a dire deficit but that cuts to our children and communities are not the answer. We need to find new ways for the state to make money, including ending the tax breaks to the rich. According to Assemblymember Merv Dymally's office "There is enough money out there. We need to increase taxes on people making over $1 million." We also need to be a lot more active. "Don't feel sad, get mad!" - was the advice from Assemblymember Dymally's office. "This is a crisis and we should respond in an organized but forceful manner ... Speak, organize!

Our voices are important and they make a difference. Join our next lobby day in Sacramento and make sure legislators know what these cuts will mean to our children. Take the day off from work. The trip is free for Local 99 members. Meals and transportation are provided.

The next Lobby Day is scheduled for:
Tuesday, July 29, 2008 

For more information please contact your Union Representative or Rafael Navar at 213-387-8393 ext. 177

Click the images below to view the photo gallery!