by Robert in Monterey [courtesy of Calitics - Front Page]

[courtesy of California Progress Report]

Lt. Governor and CSU Trustee John Garamendi accepting letters. Garamendi has opposed fee hikes as an unfair tax on students and a dangerously shortsighted move that places the quality of California’s workforce in jeopardy. The Legislature and Governor were then visited by students to include funds in the state budget that would make the fee increase unnecessary.

By Brian Ferguson

Students, faculty and state political leaders gathered on the West Steps of the Capitol Wednesday morning to speak out against a proposed 10 percent fee hike for California State University students currently being considered by the legislature.

Student representatives from all 23 CSU campuses were on hand to deliver more than 7,000 handwritten letters from students to legislators asking for the fees not to be raised. Lt. Gov John Garamendi, who is also a CSU Board of Trustees member, was on hand to accept the letters.

“It is critical that we invest in our students and ensure that they can afford a college education,” said Garamendi. “California’s continued leadership and success depend upon our ability to adequately prepare our students to address the future needs of our state.”