Are you smarter than a five year old? While you may be, Proposition 1-D is
not.
The proposition, to be voted upon statewide May 19, is solely focused on the funding of First-Five California. The proposition would redirect around $268 million from First Five's fund into the state General Fund for five years. If approved, the proposition will take effect on July 1. First-Five is an organization that is dedicated to the improving the lives of young children across California.
Proposition 10 founded First-Five in 1998. Prop. 10 placed a 50-cent tax on every pack of tobacco product bought in California. Twenty percent of the proceeds were set aside to improve the lives of children five years and younger. Its programs focus on the improvement of child health, development, and safety.
Since the programs inception, First-Five has become a vital source of health care funding for children in low-income families. Thanks to First-Five, more teachers have been trained and hired. In turn, pre-school enrollment increased as well as teachers' job security. Proposition 1-D clearly endangers the future success of the First-Five program.
If passed the $268 million will be taken from First-Five every year; that equates to about 50 percent of First-Five's funding stemming from the 50-cent tobacco tax.
Each month, First-Five would be required to wait until the State meets its financial quota before they receive any of the funding. This will severely alter the financial stability of the organization due to an uncertain monthly budget that leaves First Five guessing when its funding will arrive.
An argument in favor of Prop. 1-D states that First-Five will be largely unaffected by the proposition because First-Five has a well of untouched money.
While First-Five may have a rainy day fund, it has already committed it to long term programs and causes. First-Five dedicates large amounts of money up front in order to ensure the reaching of its goal, rather than inflate hopes only to see them collapse in the long run.
Another argument that Prop. 1-D proponents like to brandish is that if Prop. 1-D see further budget cuts. However powerful the previous statement may be, it fails to consider the disastrous effects Prop. 1-D would have on local schools and non-profit organizations.
Prop 1-D leaves the allocation of First-Five funds in the hands of budget writers who have the power to change the division of funds year by year. By the end of the five year term of allocation, First-Five may no longer exist, leaving children in need throughout California reaching for what is no longer there.
This May 19, please vote NO on Proposition 1-D.
~Michael Merget, student
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