State - On May 19th, Amador County voters will have the opportunity to vote on six budget-related propositions in a statewide special election. In a special series here on TSPN, we’ll bring you information on each ballot measure, what it means for California, and more specifically, how it affects Amador County. Today we discuss Proposition 1B, which “requires the state to make supplemental payments to local school districts and community colleges to address recent budget cuts.” Although the initial fiscal impact analysis says the state could potentially save up to several billion dollars in the 2009-2011 fiscal years, the state could see potential costs of billions of dollars annually thereafter. According to David Sanchez, President of California’s Teacher’s Association, Prop 1B would provide $9.3 billion for California’s schools, but voters must also agree to extend recent tax increases for up to two additional years. The budget crisis has cut over $12 million from California schools. According to supporter Andrea Landis of Kaufman Campaign Consultants, “Prop 1B starts the process of paying our schools and community colleges back as economic conditions improve. Our future depends on the investment we make in educating our children.” Opposition to the measure comes from special interest groups like the California Nurses Association and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees who benefit from state spending in other non-education areas. They oppose the measure because it would potentially divert their preferred government spending to education. On May 19th, you’ll have the opportunity to vote on this and other contentious issues. Stay tuned for more information on the propositions in upcoming newscasts. Story by Alex Lane This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.