May 15, 2009

Dear Colleagues,

Senate leadership will soon decide which bills currently on the Appropriations Committee's Suspense File should be released. SB 798 (DeSaulnier) was placed on suspense on May 11 due to perceived cost pressures. According to the Appropriations Committee analysis, a decision to use increased 21st Century Community Learning Centers funds to raise rates rather than expand slots could have "the unintended effect of putting pressure on the...After School Education and Safety Program."

We strongly disagree with this opinion and need the support of League members to urge the Senate President pro Tem, Darrell Steinberg, to release this bill from the Suspense File so that it can be voted on by the Appropriations Committee prior to the deadline of May 29.

Please sign and date this support letter template on your agency letterhead and fax to Susanna Cooper at (916) 323-2263 by close of business Wednesday, May 20.

Yours in Partnership,

Steven Amick
Executive Director