California state politics play a powerful role in shaping the working conditions, funding, and future of the California State University system—and by extension, every Unit 4 employee represented by APC. From annual budget negotiations to decisions about remote work and higher ed funding, legislative actions in Sacramento have a direct impact on the CSU’s priorities and stability.
This article explores how state politics influence APC members, from CSU funding allocations to local campus decisions, and how collective union advocacy is helping protect jobs and programs. With the budget process still underway, APC continues to push for full funding and accountability.
How the State Budget Shapes CSU Funding
The CSU system relies heavily on the state’s General Fund for its operations. Each year, the state legislature and governor determine the allocation of funds to CSU, balancing it against other critical needs such as healthcare, infrastructure, and public safety.
In January 2025, Governor Gavin Newsom proposed a nearly 8% cut to the CSU’s General Fund support, totaling approximately $375 million for the 2025–26 fiscal year. However, in the May Revise released on May 16, the proposed cut was reduced to 3% ($143.8 million), and $252 million in compact funding was deferred to 2027–28. While the revised proposal eases some immediate concerns, it still raises questions about long-term impacts on enrollment, staffing, and academic programs across CSU campuses
While the proposed reduction is partly offset by $75 million in restorations and $178 million in targeted augmentations, primarily for pension and retiree health cost increases, the net result is a decrease of $122 million (2.2%) in ongoing General Fund support for CSU.
These budgetary decisions have direct implications for CSU campuses, potentially leading to program reductions, hiring freezes, and other cost-saving measures that affect both staff and students.
The Ripple Effect: How CSU Allocates Funds
When the CSU system receives its annual allocation from the state budget, these funds are distributed across its 22 campuses. Each campus then determines how to allocate its share to various departments and programs. However, when the overall budget is reduced, campuses are forced to make difficult decisions to balance their individual budgets.
A stark example of this is Sonoma State University (SSU), which is grappling with a significant budget shortfall. In January 2025, SSU announced plans to cut more than a dozen majors and eliminate all NCAA sports teams to address a $24 million budget deficit. This decision was met with immediate backlash from students and faculty, leading to a temporary restraining order issued by a Sonoma County judge to halt the cuts pending further review.
The proposed cuts at SSU included the elimination of 46 faculty positions, closure of six academic departments, and discontinuation of 22 degree programs. These measures were seen as necessary by the administration to address the financial crisis but were criticized for their potential long-term impact on the university’s academic integrity and student services.
SSU’s situation underscores the broader challenges faced by CSU campuses in times of fiscal constraint. Budget reductions at the state level can lead to significant programmatic and personnel changes at individual campuses, affecting the quality of education and support services provided to students.
Collective Action: APC’s Role in Advocacy
APC actively engages in advocacy to protect the interests of its members and the broader CSU community. A notable example of this commitment was evident during the Lobby Days held on April 28–29, 2025. During this event, more than 150 union members from across California, including APC, the California Faculty Association (CFA), and Teamsters Local 2010, gathered in Sacramento to defend public higher education and advocate for a more transparent and accountable CSU system.
APC stewards from 11 CSU campuses met with State Assemblymembers and Senators to deliver a united message: Do not cut the CSU budget. Their efforts were aimed at urging lawmakers to:
- Fund the CSU system responsibly
- Stop the cuts
- Demand accountability from CSU leadership
The State’s 2025–26 budget, set to be finalized in May is effective from July 1, holds significant implications for staffing levels and job security across the CSU system. APC emphasizes that decisions made during this period can directly impact its members. In an unprecedented development, the budget could be modified later in the summer by trailer bills.
Beyond participating in Lobby Days, APC encourages its members to engage in various advocacy efforts, such as contacting state representatives and participating in campus actions. By uniting and voicing their concerns, APC members play a crucial role in shaping policies that affect their work environment and the quality of education within the CSU system.
Staying Informed and Involved
The intersection of California state politics and the operations of the California State University (CSU) system has profound implications for APC members. Decisions made in the state legislature directly influence funding allocations, which in turn affect job security, program availability, and the overall quality of education across CSU campuses.
Moving Forward:
Stay Informed: Regularly monitor updates on state budget developments and understand how they impact the CSU system.
Engage in Advocacy: Participate in union-led initiatives to voice concerns and advocate for fair funding and job security.
Communicate: Talk with new co-workers and encourage them to get more information on joining APC.
Continue writing your CA State legislators and Governor urging them to fully fund the CSU.
Resources for Further Information:
California Legislative Analyst’s Office – CSU Budget Report