League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
San Bernardino County, CA June 3, 2014 Election
	Rick Roelle Answers Questions Candidate for Member of the State Assembly; District 33

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. How would you prioritize the fiscal choices the Legislature must make to align the state’s income and spending?

California has the highest taxes in the country yet we suffer from a chronic budget instability problem that is not going away. Unfunded liabilities like CalPERS pensions and retiree health care costs amount to tens-of-billions of dollars that the State does not have. We need to foster growth in the private sector and invest in innovative business sectors that can bring good paying jobs back to the state. The Legislature must find ways to cut back on spending and government programs without hurting those desperate for local services. Sacramento's taxing and spending problems are at the epicenter of fiscal issues throughout the State, and I will fight for responsible budgeting and fiscal policies that get us back on track.

2. Given our current drought condition, concern for water rights and usage is an important issue. What solutions would you support to address our water problems?

The lack of proper preparation and planning for the distribution, conservation and preservation of our water resources has led to one debilitating water crisis after another. The fact is that proper planning and mandatory conservation measures can significantly stretch our resources. We need a state-wide investment program in water storage and distribution infrastructures that enable us to save water in the good years for when the dry years come. We need to adopt a new mindset for how we use and conserve water, and stop putting fish ahead of our dry agriculture businesses and farmlands.

3. California high school students rank lower than many states in student performance. What do you see as the ongoing role of the Legislature in addressing this problem?

Education state-wide needs to prepare students for work in the private sectors that drive our economy. We need to ensure that every taxpayer dollar allotted to our public schools is making a difference in the lives of our students. I am not convinced this is happening. Student performance is not benefitting from the investment we are making, and that needs to change. I will support legislation that does not skirt the real issues, that does not simply throw more hard-earned taxpayer dollars at the public education system, and that does not take a good, hard look at the problems with existing programs. We need legislation in Sacramento that puts our kids first and sets them up for success in their careers.

4. What other major issues do you think the Legislature must address? What are your own priorities?

There is no doubt that gun violence is a growing concern throughout our state and the country. I fully support the 2nd Amendment and will work toward solutions that preserve our law-abiding citizens' freedoms while making it more difficult and punishing for those who violent commit crimes. I have served my community for over 30 years, wearing the uniform and putting my life on the line every day. I fully support public safety and the full funding of law enforcement agencies throughout the state to help them be better able and prepared to protect and serve our communities. Public safety is the central role of government, and I think we can do a better job of supporting those that are willing to pay the ultimate price to keep us safe.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. References to opponents are not permitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: May 11, 2014 11:47
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