League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Sacramento, San Joaquin County, CA June 3, 2014 Election
	Darrell R. Fong, Ret. Answers Questions Candidate for Member of the State Assembly; District 9

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. How would you prioritize the fiscal choices the Legislature must make to align the state’s income and spending?

Spending and raising taxes must be considered with great restraint. That being said, making sure we pay for essential services for the public is part of our responsibility. I would prioritize spending on public safety, education and safetynet health services for seniors, the disabled, and the most needy residents of the state.

2. Given our current drought condition, concern for water rights and usage is an important issue. What solutions would you support to address our water problems?

The state needs to pass a clean water bond without earmarks in order to invest in regional water projects that include storage, recycling, and conservation. I oppose the construction of twin tunnels to divert water to the Central Valley and Southern California.

3. California high school students rank lower than many states in student performance. What do you see as the ongoing role of the Legislature in addressing this problem?

The Legislature can lead with increasing emphasis on early education that has been proven to reduce dropout rates. In addition, California is 49th in per pupil spending. Unless we do a better job investing in public education, student performance will not improve.

4. What other major issues do you think the Legislature must address? What are your own priorities?

I believe that the Legislature must focus on comprehensive ethics and open government reform.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. References to opponents are not permitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: May 7, 2014 11:39
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