The latest studies, editorials, and investigative reports on issues affecting California’s democracy, economy, and opportunities.

October 4, 2019
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** CALIFORNIA'S SPENDTHRIFT WAYS
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Good morning!

It’s Friday and you know what that means! Time to receive your favorite newsletter of the week from California Policy Center! We have a lot of cool treats for you heading into this hot weekend.

Californians are now paying over $4.00/gallon at the pump. According to GasBuddy ([link removed]) , refining issues led gas prices to jump about 25 cents per gallon. However, rest assured, you’re still paying only an average of 79 cents per gallon ([link removed]) in taxes when you fill up your vehicle. If this number makes you want to scream, I have more bad news for you - Americans spent more on taxes last year than on food, clothing and health care combined. Click here to read a full analysis of the Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Expenditure Survey. ([link removed])

A new report ([link removed]) on the financial condition of the United States ranks California 43rd in the nation for its fiscal health. With the economy cooling off, and talks of a recession in the news, you may be wondering what that means for your wallet. Well, consider not only your own income and spending, but that of your local government. As we have noted in the past, California’s total state and local government debt is over $1.5 trillion ([link removed]) . This week CPC fellow Edward Ring makes the case for pension reform by pointing out the unsustainability of current government spending in times of economic downturn. Click here to read his analysis ([link removed]) .

One of the reasons many municipalities are on the brink of fiscal insolvency is because government unions are able to spend money and elected local officials, who in turn increase their pay and benefits. One such union is the teachers union in California, which frequently asserts that teachers need higher pay because of a “pay gap.” Yet, as CPC contributor Larry Sand points this is a myth. Click here to read more ([link removed]) .

Many Californians are rightfully concerned about stewarding the environment. Yet, a topic that frequently is not discussed by people is water. Although the Left and Right may argue about social issues and economic issues, the water issue should be one where both sides find common ground. This week CPC contributor Darin DuPont makes the case for why Californians must not remain complacent about this important issue. Click here to read the full article ([link removed]) .

Upcoming Events:

Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Permission?
The Pepperdine University School of Public Policy hosts a half-day conference on Wednesday, October 16 in Costa Mesa. Timothy Sandefur, VP for Litigation at the Goldwater Institute, will explore the growing reach of the administrative state—from local government regulations to federal—that are inhibiting (if not preventing) basic American freedoms. Seating is limited. To register, click here ([link removed]) .

Rand Paul at the Reagan Library
U.S. Senator Rand Paul will speak at the Reagan Presidential Library on October 18, about his new book, The Case Against Socialism. There is no cost to attend the event. For more information, and to reserve your spot, click here ([link removed]) .

A Reagan Forum and Book Signing with Dr. Wilfred McClay
Dr. Wilfred McClay, the Ronald Reagan Professor of Public Policy at Pepperdine, will visit the Reagan Presidential Library to discuss “Recovering the American Story: Consciousness and the American Past” on November 15. The event is free and begins at 11 am. For more information, and to reserve your spot, click here ([link removed]) .

As always, if you’d like to join our movement to save California, we invite you to support us. Click here to donate to CPC ([link removed]) .


** ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA POLICY CENTER
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The California Policy Center promotes prosperity for all Californians through limited government and individual liberty.

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