Governor Newsom Proposes Increased Investments in Higher Education and Workforce Development
Governor Newsom’s proposed 2020-21 budget of $222.2 billion, unveiled Friday, outlined continued investments in California’s higher education system and workforce development. Increased funding for the three public higher education segments shows the Governor’s attention to closing the degree gap and helping improve students’ upward economic mobility. The budget highlights adult college students as a group to support as they are key to driving our state’s economy.
Specifically, the budget includes significant investments to help adults advance in the workforce through work-based learning models at the community colleges and through the Fresno Developing the Region’s Inclusive & Vibrant Economy (DRIVE). UC Extension and CSU Continuing Education programs will also receive support to help adults complete their bachelor’s degrees and professional certificates. Additionally, funding was included to expand postsecondary education opportunities for incarcerated adults with associate’s degrees through the partnership between CSU and several prisons to establish bachelor’s degree programs. The budget also addresses student cost pressures through lowering textbook costs, establishing food pantries, and providing extra support services for immigrant students and student parents.
These initial investments are promising and show Governor Newsom taking a great first step in the new year in recognizing the importance of higher education as it relates to workforce development.
Read California Competes’ full analysis of Governor Newsom’s proposed budget.
