By Steven Barker
News Editor

Under Governor Jerry Brown’s May revisions to the California state budget, the California State University system will receive an additional $73 million in funding.

According to the May budget summary, $38 million will be dedicated to help reduce the time it takes for students to complete their degrees, and $35 million will be spent to fund energy projects across the 23 CSU’s.

Reactions to the increased spending varied. While CSU Chancellor Timothy White praised Brown’s increased allocation to the CSU system, the president of the California Faculty Association said the reinvestment is a fraction of what is necessary to benefit the CSU system.

“Today’s announcement by Governor Brown acknowledges the California State University’s vital mission in serving the students of California,” White said in a press release. “The May Revision supports existing CSU priorities by expanding student enrollments and programs that increase degree completion. The governor’s proposal is an important step towards reinvestment in a well-educated California citizenry and knowledge-based economy.”

“The CSU educates nearly 450,000 students. Why aren’t they prioritized in the Governor’s budget?” said Lillian Taiz, president of CFA in a press release. “Our students are the future leaders who could help create new water conservation systems, protect our families and teach our children. Yet the Governor is unwilling to ensure they get the support they deserve.”

The increase in the CSU’s funding is one of numerous funding increases in the budget revision. Other funding increases include a $75 million allotment to increase full-time faculty in community colleges and a $60 million increase to improve basic skill instruction.

More information on the spending increases can be found here: http://www.ebudget.ca.gov/FullBudgetSummary.pdf