Legislative Update on AB 1526 from the Network Policy Committee

In connection with the budget, the State Legislature passed by a large margin AB 1526, which, if signed into law by the Governor, would put an initiative on the ballot to repeal Proposition 49’s guarantee of after-school funding. Such a measure would give the legislature authority in future budgets to cut, or even eliminate, after-school funding.

This is a stand-alone measure that, while one of several budget “trailer” bills, is not technically linked to any other budget proposals.

While the Governor has signed the budget and most of the trailer bills, the Governor is expected to veto this measure. As of now, he has not yet acted on the measure (although there have been some reports mistakenly suggesting he actually signed the bill). He has until the end of September to sign or veto bills. Generally, while the Legislature has authority to override vetoes with a 2/3 vote, the Legislature does not attempt to override vetoed legislation.

Calls or letters to the Governor to thank him for his continued support for after-school programs are certainly appropriate, but no immediate action is necessary. We will keep you posted about further developments and about any actions being taken by after-school advocates as this issue develops.