The scorecard is to inform the public on lawmakers’ support of the CSU and public higher education. Just as California has charged the university with educating and graduating well-prepared students, the university holds state elected officials accountable for supporting that mission.
The lack of any “A” grades reflects the lawmakers’ actions that affect the CSU and its ability to provide students with access to the best quality education. The scorecard is based on the voting record of each member of the legislature on 24 specific bills, not including budget.
Despite an ongoing decline in state funding for the CSU, many lawmakers still find ways to support the university and its efforts for students, faculty and staff. The steps promise to expand financial aid eligibility, provide priority access for foster youth, increase transparency, wisely utilize digital resources, protect the public governing board’s role and ensure that academic decisions are based on what is best for students and the state.
The Legislative Scorecard and voting record by member is available here (PDF).