California Teachers Association Backs Brown Over Sister Union
The California Teachers Association did the expected and announced its support for Gov. Jerry Brown’s tax initiative, which would hike the sales tax and income taxes for individuals earning more than $250,000. The California Federation of Teachers has its own tax initiative for the November ballot, which would raise income taxes on those making more than $1 million, and contains no sales tax hike.
“Educators know that California cannot continue to cut its way out of ongoing budget problems. We also know that not everyone in California is paying their fair share, and that’s why we are supporting the governor’s tax proposal, which taxes the wealthiest Californians in order to bring additional revenue to our schools, colleges and other essential public services,” said CTA president Dean Vogel.
Every time a CTA president mentions those who aren’t paying their fair share, I am compelled to remind everyone that CTA is an annual $187 million tax-exempt private corporate enterprise.
“It is way past time for a tax increase, and we must help lead the way in getting a revenue package approved,” Vogel said.
It is being reported that SEIU will also support the governor’s plan, leaving the California Federation of Teachers in a bind. Will CFT continue with its own initiative or will it bow to the wishes of the other unions and the Democratic establishment?
