The amendments made through AB 85 increase funding for essential sectors within the state, particularly focusing on education and election-related activities. Among key appropriations is funding for the Office of Elections Cybersecurity, which aims at bolstering the security of election procedures. The bill outlines significant financial allocations, including approximately $53.35 million to the Secretary of State's office, which primarily supports election administration. Furthermore, provisions in the bill extend family fee waivers for state preschool programs, reflecting an effort to alleviate financial burdens for families amid ongoing budgetary constraints.
Assembly Bill 85, known as the Budget Act of 2020, makes adjustments to the appropriations enacted for the fiscal year 2020-2021. The bill amends previous items of appropriation within the Budget Act to enhance financial provisions supporting various state services. Importantly, the bill stipulates immediate effectiveness as a budgetary action to facilitate timely funding for fundamentally important public services, including education and state election security.
Reactions to AB 85 were generally supportive, as many viewed it as a necessary step to ensure continued funding for vital public services in California. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of maintaining strong funding levels for education and governance, particularly in ensuring that elections remain secure and efficient. However, certain critics raised concerns about the rapid nature of budget adjustments without extensive public discussion, fearing potential long-term repercussions and the sustainability of such increments in future budgets.
While the bill received broad support due to its enhancements in funding for critical services, some apprehension lingered around the potential implications of the cybersecurity measures, especially regarding individual privacy and data handling. Discourse also centered on the prioritization of programs within the budget, with some advocacy groups urging focused funding on services for disadvantaged populations, suggesting that budgetary resources could be more equitably distributed.