California lawmakers unveiled 14 reparations bills. None of them call for cash payments
The California Legislative Black Caucus has outlined the first set of reparations proposals for the descendants of African Americans who were enslaved in the United States.
The proposals include a formal apology, the prohibition of involuntary servitude in prisons, and the return of property seized by governments under race-based eminent domain. [ more ]
Walters: Bigger California deficit could spell changes for schools
California's state budgeting process starts with projecting revenue, but these projections are often far from accurate due to the volatile taxation system.
The allocation of funds to public schools under Proposition 98 is based on these revenue projections, but the calculations are subject to interpretation and often do not align with reality. [ more ]
NYC commits $500 million for at-risk education programs
NYC Mayor Eric Adams and City Council pledge $514 million to save essential public school programs, covering half of the impending budget shortfall from expiring federal stimulus dollars. [ more ]
L.A. officials had been hoping to fill vacant city jobs. The new plan? Eliminate them
Los Angeles' political leaders are concerned about the large number of vacant positions in city government, hindering their ability to provide services.
A looming budget shortfall, fueled by new raises for public employees, may lead to a slowdown in hiring and elimination of vacant positions. [ more ]
After border bill failure, ICE considers mass releases to close budget gap
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is planning to release thousands of immigrants and reduce the number of detention beds after a failed Senate border bill.
The budget shortfall and proposal create challenges for the Biden administration as illegal border crossings are expected to increase in the spring. [ more ]
Golden Gate Bridge toll would hit $10 under proposed increases
Golden Gate Bridge officials are considering four options for another round of toll increases that would break the $10 mark for all drivers.
The agency is facing a $220 million budget shortfall over the next five years if tolls are not increased.
The public will have the opportunity to learn about the financial needs and provide feedback on the toll increase options through online open houses and a public hearing. [ more ]