Despite Great Efforts, No Increase to ASES

The Budget Conference Committee released their final recommendations for the 2018-19 budget, which unfortunately does not include our request for additional funding for After School Education & Safety (ASES) programs. The budget request would have brought the daily rate to an average of $9.25 per student. The Governor has already negotiated with legislative leaders so we expect this to be the final budget for the coming year.

While the outcome is disappointing, we can all take pride in the growing awareness and dedication to Save Afterschool. Thank you to everyone who got involved and raised their voice. Together, more than 300 organizations and 10,000 expanded learning program staff, families, and students took action to support more funding for ASES. Together we will continue the fight to keep high-quality afterschool programs open for the students, families, and communities that need them.

Some Good News

With the support of over 100 organizations and 900 individuals across California, AB 1744 was unanimously approved by the Senate Education Committee. AB 1744 is an amendment that would ensure that a portion of the revenue generated by cannabis sales would go towards afterschool programs, fulfilling a condition included in the Proposition 64 bill that passed in 2016. Next, AB 1744 will be heard in the Senate Health Committee on Wednesday, June 20, at 1:30 PM.