'YES' ON PROPOSITION 1D
This proposition would redirect tobacco tax funds from early education programs to the state's general fund. It is another unpleasant but necessary step for balancing the state's budgets in coming years.
At issue is the money the state collects under Proposition 10, a 1998 initiative that taxed tobacco to curb youth smoking and pay for early education. Over the years, it has funded a range of worthy "First 5" programs – including dental services for kids, smoking cessation for pregnant women, preschool and health insurance.
It has also generated a fair amount of unspent tobacco tax money – roughly $2.5 billion as of June. Proposition 1D would redirect up to $608 million of that money this year and $268 million annually through 2013 to the general fund. Those diverted funds could go a long way toward avoiding tough cuts to health and welfare programs that are outside of the First 5 realm – including programs that help kids and families.
Proposition 1D wouldn't come without pain. If passed, it could make it harder for local First 5 programs to plan for the future. But it's a prudent way for lawmakers to avoid cuts that could have immediate impacts on families. Vote "Yes" on Proposition 1D.
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