League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Monterey, San Benito, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz Counties, CA November 2, 2004 Election
	Simon Salinas Answers Questions Candidate for Member of the State Assembly; District 28

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. What does California need to do to address the current budget crisis?

We need to continue to consider cuts and appropriate revenue to bring our budget back into balance. But we also need to develop long-term strategies to make sure our state does not repeat this cycle. I have worked to reduce costs while protecting those programs that are most vital to our community and have the greatest long-term benefit. I will continue working with the Governor and Legislature to build a California that is fiscally strong and has the right budget priorities.

2. What should the state's priorities be for K-12 education? For the Community College System?

As a former elementary school teacher and Community College instructor, I have direct experience in our schools. We need to focus on providing a solid educational foundation for each and every student, so we are better able to meet our goals and prepare our students to meet the needs of the new century. I fought cuts to our Community Colleges because I know first-hand how crucial they are to providing direct vocation training that is vital for a productive workforce. I also believe we need to involve the private sector in our schools. To that end, I have established a scholarship fund at CSUMB that I will use as an example for others who want to directly contribute to the education of our young people.

3. What measures would you support to address California's water needs?

We have two major water issues that must be addressed--water supply and water contamination. In the Salinas Valley, we are constantly challenged to provide adequate water for our residents. We must do more through conservation and creative water solutions like desalination plants. Water contamination is also a vital issue. Water supplies in Gilroy and surrounding communities face perchlorate contamination and other threats. I have worked with state agencies to ensure we are cleaning up contaminated water and that we continue to provide safe drinking water to our residents.

4. What should the Legislature be doing to address the needs of Californians without health insurance?

Lack of adequate health care has reached a crisis point for many Californians. We must first move to ensure all children have access to adequate health care services. We must do more to reduce the cost of prescription drugs. And we must not abandon prevention programs that offer the best opportunity for health care savings. As Assemblymember, I successfully fought attempts to reduce health care coverage. I will continue fighting to ensure every Californian has access to basic health care services.