LOS ANGELES – MALDEF (Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund) today endorsed Proposition 13, a California measure on the March 3, 2020 ballot that would increase funding for facilities at public schools, state colleges and public universities.

The measure would allow the state to sell $15 billion in general obligation bonds to help repair and modernize schools, community colleges and universities, prioritizing funding to schools with safety or health issues such as mold, asbestos, or lead pipes.

Proposition 13 – not related to the 1970’s anti-tax measure — would also provide greater assistance to smaller districts that traditionally struggle to fund school projects and capital improvements because they have too small a tax base, or low-income districts that are property-poor.

MALDEF President and General Counsel Thomas A. Saenz, issued the following statement on Proposition 13:

“Proposition 13 on the 2020 ballot is a much-needed investment in California’s future.  Our public schools must eliminate racial gaps in educational progress in order to ensure that our state has the future leadership and workforce to continue to thrive.  The resources made available through this ballot measure should help to address inequities and to perpetuate a successful California economy in the future.  Vote Yes on Prop. 13 in 2020.”

To learn more about Proposition 13 visit: https://safeschoolsandhealthylearning.com/