Advocates oppose California tax cuts citing adverse youth and community impacts

A wave of opposition surged at the California Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee meeting on July 9, 2025, as community leaders and advocates voiced their concerns over proposed tax cuts that could jeopardize vital youth programs and environmental initiatives.

Kamai Quip, representing the Passion and Purpose Youth Program, articulated a strong stance against the tax reductions, emphasizing their detrimental effects on youth and the environment. "Lowering taxes for small businesses doesn’t make sense when larger businesses contribute more to our community programs," Quip stated, highlighting the need for equitable funding sources.

The meeting saw a diverse coalition of voices, including representatives from various nonprofit organizations, environmental groups, and tribal communities, all united in their opposition. Angel Serrano, an outreach specialist focused on substance misuse prevention, warned that cuts to youth programs would have devastating impacts on communities of color. "Cutting funds for youth programs like this would be devastating," he asserted.

The opposition was not limited to youth services; environmental advocates also raised alarms. Megan Cleveland from the Nature Conservancy and Alex Loomer, representing multiple environmental organizations, expressed their concerns about the potential negative impacts on California's natural resources.

Tribal leaders were particularly vocal, with many emphasizing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities and the need for continued support for programs that address these issues. Mike Duncan, executive director of the Native Dance Network, highlighted the potential loss of over $2 billion in funding for prevention and cultural restoration programs, stating, "These bills will strip more than $2 billion from prevention, healing, and cultural restoration programs."

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were left to consider the weight of the testimonies presented. The overwhelming opposition signals a critical moment for policymakers as they navigate the complexities of tax reform and its far-reaching implications for California's youth and environment. The future of these programs hangs in the balance, with advocates urging lawmakers to prioritize community needs over tax breaks for businesses.