As a matter of perspective, this year's budget was nearly three months late because lawmakers could not agree on how to close an overall gap of roughly $15 billion. Lots of cutting later, combined with a dash of hope and a prayer, and now we're looking at the potential for even more cuts. We'll be following this latest special session closely to ensure that public transportation funding, which was already hacked in the 08-09 budget, is not further reduced. We'll also work to protect funding for natural resources protection programs that are traditionally raided by budget negotiators looking for a quick fix.
There is still some room for hope. Given that this special session will convene after the election with a lame duck body, it's possible that partisan politics will be checked at the door and the Legislature and the Governor will act responsibly by identifying new revenue sources to help close the gap without cutting essential program and services. We're keeping our fingers crossed.
PCL SUPPORTS PROPOSITION 2: THE STANDARDS FOR CONFINED ANIMALS INITIATIVE
Proposition 2, a statewide initiative on the November ballot, is an example of sound and responsible environmental policy for California. Factory farms are cutting corners and Californians are paying the price with the pollution of our air and water resources, the loss of our family farms, and the devastation of rural communities. Confining thousands of animals in crates and cages concentrates massive amounts of toxic waste. Voting yes on Prop 2 is a step toward addressing this serious problem and cleaning up California's environment. It is for these reasons that the Planning and Conservation League strongly endorses Prop 2.
Prop 2 is a modest measure that would allow breeding pigs, veal calves, and egg-laying hens enough room to stand up, turn around, and stretch their limbs. Because Prop 2 will reduce the density of animals packed into small places it will lower the amount of air and water pollution released into local communities. Prop 2 will also enable small family farmers to compete in a market that has so far rewarded cruelty. The Planning and Conservation League supports family farming as a way to ensure California's agricultural heritage is preserved and our land is protected.
Prop 2 is also supported by The Humane Society of the United States, the California Veterinary Medical Association, the Center for Food Safety, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Consumer Federation of America, the Center for Science in the Public Interest, the United Farm Workers, Farm Sanctuary, the Sierra Club, Cesar Chavez Foundation, Republican and Democratic elected officials, hundreds of California veterinarians, family farmers, religious leaders, and many others.
HELP BUILD THE MOMENTUM FOR THE 2009 PCL-PCLF SYMPOSIUM
You've heard about the Symposium and some of you have already registered getting the early bird discount, but did you know you can support our work by becoming an event sponsor too? With your commitment to sponsor the Symposium, your organization or business can help us build the momentum for a sustainable California!
We have a wide range of sponsors supporting our event and our work, including law firms, non-profits, utility districts, individuals, and more! We hope you will choose to join the ranks of Chatten-Brown and Carstens, Kenyon Yeates or Shute, Mihaly and Weinberger; Save Mt. Diablo, National Parks and Conservation Association or GreenInfo Network; East Bay MUD or the Inland Empire Utility Agency. Become a sponsor today!
We've even expanded our sponsor benefits this year and we have a non-profit rate for our grassroots supporters! Sponsorship benefits vary depending on your support level, but most include:
Complimentary tickets and an information table
Acknowledgement at the event, in our program and newsletter
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