California governor's budget proposes $2.4M funding for College of the Law

The Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 3 on Education Finance convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss key budget proposals affecting California's educational institutions. A significant focus of the meeting was the governor's budget plan, which includes a proposed ongoing general fund base augmentation of $2.4 million for the College of the Law.

Ian Klein from the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO) presented the budget details, noting that alongside the proposed increase, the college would face a 7.95% operating reduction in the 2025-2026 fiscal year, amounting to approximately $1.8 million. This combination would result in a net increase of just over $500,000, or about 2%. However, Klein recommended that the legislature reject the base augmentation proposal due to the state's current fiscal challenges.

Klein explained that unlike the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU), which had their base augmentations deferred, the College of the Law was granted an increase because it is a smaller agency facing an operating deficit. He cautioned that committing to an increase in base funding during budget deficits poses risks, suggesting that the college could still manage its spending plan through other revenue sources, primarily tuition and fees.

The discussion highlighted the delicate balance the state must maintain in funding education while addressing its financial constraints. The subcommittee's recommendations will play a crucial role in shaping the future funding landscape for California's educational institutions.