Arnold Schwarzenegger Watch: Governor Expected to Propose College Fee Freeze

The ASSociated Press and Los Angeles Times has Gov. Expected to Propose College Fee Freeze

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is expected to propose a freeze on fee hikes at California universities next year, the first financial break for students in several years.

The 2006-2007 budget plan will propose an additional $75 million for the University of California and $54.4 million for the California State University, a senior administration official said Wednesday.

In addition, the Cal Grant program is being augmented.

Schwarzenegger’s budget plan also will add $11.9 million to raise the maximum amount of Cal Grants for students at private colleges and universities, the official said. The extra money would raise the maximum annual grant to $9,708 from $8,322.

Nunez said that move would return the Cal Grant program to its level of two years ago and “sends a strong message that California is serious about investing in our future.”

And how is the Governor paying for this largess?

The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office said in November that an unexpected jump in tax income and ongoing spending cuts will raise $5.2 billion more than previously projected. That will more than cover what had been anticipated as a $4 billion shortfall for next year and leave a reserve of $1.2 billion.

A politically-sensitive endeavor that ingratiates Schwarzenegger with middle class parents and students alike.

This will improve his relations with moderate voters who Arnold desperately needs.

One step on the long road to re-election.