Watch CBS News

Education Advocates Press Lawmakers For Tax Vote

SACRAMENTO (AP) — A coalition of teachers, parents and public school employees is lobbying state lawmakers to approve Gov. Jerry Brown's budget plan and let voters decide whether recent tax increases should be extended.

More than 300 advocates gathered Monday in front of the Capitol urging support for the tax extensions. State Superintendent for Public Instruction Tom Torlakson says schools already have lost billions and that one-time stimulus aid is expiring.

Teachers say more cuts will result in larger class sizes and a shorter school year.

Brown wants to close California's $26.6 billion deficit by cutting $12.5 billion in spending and extending temporary increases in the sales, personal income and vehicle taxes. He wants those tax hikes extended for five years.

Republicans so far have refused to put the tax question before voters.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.