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First 5 Association of California Responds to the Failure of Proposition 1D

May 20, 2009
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El Cerrito, Calif - The First 5 Association of California today issued a statement in response to the voters' rejection of Proposition 1D, which would have redirected $268 million annually from First 5 commissions to the state General Fund for five years, beginning July 1, 2009.
 
"Yesterday's vote was an affirmation that voters place a high value on programs that serve California's youngest and most vulnerable population," said Sherry Novick, executive director of the First 5 Association, which represents the 58 county First 5 commissions.  "For 10 years, First 5 commissions have provided critical services for children 0 - 5. They have improved early child development, ensured that children's health care needs are met, and addressed the achievement gap in our schools by helping children enter school ready to succeed.  It's clear from the election results that the public wants First 5 to continue this important work.
 
"This is not a time, however, to rest on First 5's accomplishments.  In light of the state's budget crisis, First 5 commissions will continue to work with local and statewide partners to meet immediate needs caused by the economic downturn. Just last January, First 5 commissions shored up the state's Healthy Families insurance program, and commissions throughout the state are focused on the increasing needs of newly unemployed and homeless families."
 
First 5 commissions were established by Proposition 10 of 1998, which established a 50 cents/pack tobacco tax and targeted the proceeds to support the health and development of children during their fist 5 years. Last year, First 5 commissions:
  • Screened more than 125,000 children for developmental delays, and ensured those who needed treatment received it.
  • Funded high quality preschool classrooms for more than 22,000 low income children.
  • Provided access to health insurance for 78,000 children through the Healthy Kids program. Nearly one-quarter were under age 6.
  • Provided dental services to 105,000 young children, from check-ups and fluoride varnishes to extensive treatment. 
  • Contributed more than $20 million to create 2-1-1 information systems throughout the state to link families to services quickly and efficiently, reducing pressure on emergency personnel and facilitating better use of county resources.