The government shutdown and healthcare
The government shutdown currently underway comes on the heels of Trump’s big, ugly bill that cut Medicaid coverage for millions. If Congress does not act now and extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, an estimated 4.2 million Americans will lose their health insurance coverage and another 20 million will face significant premium increases, including potentially thousands of CFT members who rely on the ACA because they only work part-time. But this won’t just harm individuals – it will drive up healthcare costs for everyone.
For a powerful explanation of what’s at stake during the government shutdown, watch this video featuring Bernie Sanders and AOC. And then sign this AFT petition, urging our Congressional representatives to put working people first and fix the healthcare crisis.
Reminder: Join us Saturday from 11–3 for our State Superintendent of Public Instruction candidate forum
All are welcome to attend our online forum for candidates for State Superintendent of Public Instruction (SPI), set for this Saturday from 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. Hear from six SPI candidates about their campaigns and priorities for public education in California. The SPI is a critical position, elected by voters to lead the California Department of Education (CDE), helping to implement state TK-12 education policy and provide direction to local school districts.
Register here to attend the event online. Note: There is no need to register for those attending the CFT State Council meeting.
Take action to oppose SB 848 – Ensure due process for TK-12 classified staff
Please sign this CFT letter to respectfully request that Governor Newsom veto SB 848, which creates a tracking system for classified employees based on accusations rather than proven misconduct. In the next legislative session classified staff can then help craft better legislation to address this critical student safety issue.
Prop. 50 ballots mailed next week
Ballots for the election to pass Proposition 50, the Elections Rigging Response Act, will hit mailboxes across the state next week. Look for your ballot and make sure to connect with your family and friends about casting a yes vote on this critical initiative.
The campaign to pass Prop. 50 is in full swing and the next month will determine whether our people-powered campaign can overcome the tens of millions being spent by billionaires. Thanks to all who continue to volunteer on the campaign, including everyone who turned out this past Tuesday at our statewide phonebank (pictured above). RSVP now for our upcoming phonebanks on both October 7, and October 15, or join your local labor council for a neighborhood walk.
News in Brief
Back to school tour stops in Morgan Hill – Yesterday CFT President Jeff Freitas got a chance to check in with members of the Morgan Hill Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 2022 (pictured above) at their beginning of the year social. In addition to discussing state and local issues impacting public education, members discussed critical local issues, including getting paid for all trainings.
October 8 webinar: Workers rights and responsibilities in the Trump era – We are witnessing an escalation of anti-democratic and unlawful actions by the Trump administration. In this workshop, set for October 8 from 4:00–5:30 p.m., we will discuss our rights and responsibilities as educators and school employees during this difficult time and how we can exert our rights to protect our students, ourselves, our coworkers, and our communities. Register here.
Save the date: October 18 National No Kings Day of Action – On October 18 millions across the country will come together with one clear message: America belongs to us. No Kings. No Crowns. No Thrones. No Dictators! For more information, click here.
