Under existing law, by executive order, CaliforniaVolunteers is established in the office of the Governor and is charged with overseeing programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

This bill would authorize CaliforniaVolunteers, for so long as it is authorized to exist, to form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit corporation, or other tax-exempt entity, qualified under federal and state law to raise revenues and receive grants or other financial support from private or public sources, for the purposes of undertaking or funding any lawful activity authorized to be undertaken by CaliforniaVolunteers. This bill would require the nonprofit corporation or other tax-exempt entity to use the financial support it seeks to be used solely for the governmental purposes approved by CaliforniaVolunteers for activities within the scope of authority of CaliforniaVolunteers.

This bill would also establish California AmeriCorps STEM in state government, to be administered by CaliforniaVolunteers and operate under existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines. This bill would require that California AmeriCorps STEM members be selected through an application process for eligible college graduates or students, as specified. This bill would allow a nonprofit corporation, as specified, or a public entity to apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, to CaliforniaVolunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more California AmeriCorps STEM members. This bill would provide that the purpose of California AmeriCorps STEM is to increase STEM education programs to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields. This bill would authorize CaliforniaVolunteers to solicit and accept private funding to help supplement the costs of California AmeriCorps STEM.

Under existing law, by executive order, California Volunteers CaliforniaVolunteers is established in the office of the Governor and is charged with overseeing programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

This bill would authorize California Volunteers, CaliforniaVolunteers, for so long as it is authorized to exist, to form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit corporation, or other tax-exempt entity, qualified under federal and state law to raise revenues and receive grants or other financial support from private or public sources, for the purposes of undertaking or funding any lawful activity authorized to be undertaken by California Volunteers. CaliforniaVolunteers. This bill would require the nonprofit corporation or other tax-exempt entity to use the financial support it seeks to be used solely for the governmental purposes approved by California Volunteers CaliforniaVolunteers for activities within the scope of authority of California Volunteers. CaliforniaVolunteers.

This bill would also establish California AmeriCorps STEM in state government, to be administered by California Volunteers CaliforniaVolunteers and operate under existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines. This bill would require that California AmeriCorps STEM members be determined selected through an application process for eligible college graduates or students, as specified. This bill would allow a nonprofit corporation, as specified, or a public entity to apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, to California Volunteers, CaliforniaVolunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more California AmeriCorps STEM members. This bill would provide that the purpose of California AmeriCorps STEM is to increase STEM education programs to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields. This bill would authorize California Volunteers CaliforniaVolunteers to solicit and accept private funding to help supplement the costs of California AmeriCorps STEM.

Under existing law, by executive order, California Volunteers is established in the office of the Governor and is charged with overseeing programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

This bill would also establish California AmeriCorps STEM in state government, to be administered by California Volunteers and operate under existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines. This bill would require that California AmeriCorps STEM members be determined through an application process for eligible college graduates with student loan debt, or students, as specified. This bill would allow a nonprofit corporation, as specified, or a public entity to apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, to California Volunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more California AmeriCorps STEM members. This bill would provide that the purpose of California AmeriCorp AmeriCorps STEM is to increase STEM education programs to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields. This bill would authorize California Volunteers to solicit and accept private funding to help supplement the costs of California AmeriCorps STEM.

Under existing law, by executive order, California Volunteers is established in the office of the Governor and is charged with overseeing programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

This bill would establish California AmeriCorps STEM in the state government, to be administered by California Volunteers and operate under existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines. This bill would require that California AmeriCorps STEM members be determined through an application process for eligible college graduates with student loan debt, as specified. This bill would allow a nonprofit corporation, as specified, or public entity to apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, to California Volunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more California AmeriCorps STEM members. This bill would provide that the purpose of California AmeriCorp STEM is to increase STEM education programs to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields. This bill would authorize California Volunteers to solicit and accept private funding to help supplement the costs of California AmeriCorps STEM.

Under existing law, by executive order, CaliforniaVolunteers is established in the office of the Governor and is charged with overseeing programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

This bill would establish California AmeriCorps STEM in the state government, to be administered by CaliforniaVolunteers and operate under existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines. This bill would require that California AmeriCorps STEM members be determined through an application process for eligible college graduates with student loan debt, as specified. This bill would allow a nonprofit corporation, as specified, to apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, to CaliforniaVolunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more California AmeriCorps STEM members. This bill would provide that the purpose of California AmeriCorp STEM is to increase STEM education programs to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields. This bill would authorize CaliforniaVolunteers to solicit and accept private funding to help supplement the costs of California AmeriCorps STEM.

GOVERNOR'S VETO

GV Bill Id:AB 706

Author:(Bonilla)

As Enrolled Ver:September 9, 2015

2/3 vote

Original Committee Reference: A. & A.R.

SUMMARY: Establishes the California AmeriCorps Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (Cal AmeriCorps STEM) program in state government.

The Senate amendments:

1. Authorize the Cal AmeriCorps STEM program administrator, CaliforniaVolunteers (Cal Volunteers), to form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit foundation, or other qualified tax-exempt entity, to raise revenues and receive financial support from public or private sources, for the purpose of undertaking or funding authorized activities.

2. Require financial support for the nonprofit foundation to be used solely for governmental purposes approved by Cal Volunteers for activities within its authority.

3. Delete the requirement that an applicant provide proof of incurred student debt as a condition of eligibility for participating in Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

4. Provide that the mission of the Cal Volunteers nonprofit foundation authorized in this bill is to support the funding of Cal AmeriCorps STEM programming and administrative costs, and to support any other priorities set by the Governor or Cal Volunteers.

5. Limit participation in the Cal AmeriCorps STEM program to a maximum of 40 members for the first three years, and specify that program size would be determined by available funding in future years.

6. Cap nonprofit foundation administrative costs at $100,000 annually.

7. Prohibit General Fund (GF) moneys from being used for Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

8. Make other technical and clarifying changes.

EXISTING LAW establishes Cal Volunteers in the Governor's Office to manage programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

FISCAL EFFECT: According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:

1. Initial costs to Cal Volunteers would be in the range of $80,000 for one personnel year (PY) of staff to administer the California AmeriCorps STEM program, based upon an initial cap of 40 members for the first three years. Cal Volunteers estimates the need for 2.2 PY, at a cost of approximately $180,000, to implement and administer the program if the program grows to 150 members in future years. (General Fund and/or private funds)

2. Cal Volunteers estimates a need for $200,000 and one PY to staff the nonprofit foundation, but the bill limits administrative expenditures of the foundation to $100,000 per year. (GF and/or private funds)

3. Program costs would depend on the number of members participating in the program and the demand for STEM programs. For the first three years, the program is limited to 40 members, which would require approximately $1 million in non-General Fund program funds. If there is sufficient funding available, Cal Volunteers estimates a need for approximately $3.6 million in program funds if there are 150 members and 10 grantees. (Private funds, federal funds, local matching funds)

GOVERNOR'S VETO MESSAGE:

This bill establishes the California AmeriCorps STEM program and authorizes CaliforniaVolunteers to form a non-profit foundation for fundraising purposes.

I applaud the author for promoting math and science through volunteerism in California, but without a funding source the program established in this bill would not be viable.

Analysis Prepared by: Cassie Royce / A. & A.R. / (916) 319-3600 FN: 0002487

CONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS

CSA1 Bill Id:AB 706

Author:(Bonilla)

As Amended Ver:August 31, 2015

Majority vote

Original Committee Reference: A. & A.R.

SUMMARY: Establishes the California AmeriCorps Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (Cal AmeriCorps STEM) program in state government.

The Senate amendments:

1. Authorize the Cal AmeriCorps STEM program administrator, CaliforniaVolunteers (Cal Volunteers), to form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit foundation, or other qualified tax-exempt entity, to raise revenues and receive financial support from public or private sources, for the purpose of undertaking or funding authorized activities.

2. Require financial support for the nonprofit foundation to be used solely for governmental purposes approved by Cal Volunteers for activities within its authority.

3. Delete the requirement that an applicant provide proof of incurred student debt as a condition of eligibility for participating in Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

4. Provide that the mission of the Cal Volunteers nonprofit foundation authorized in this bill is to support the funding of Cal AmeriCorps STEM programming and administrative costs, and to support any other priorities set by the Governor or Cal Volunteers.

5. Limit participation in the Cal AmeriCorps STEM program to a maximum of 40 members for the first three years, and specify that program size would be determined by available funding in future years.

6. Cap nonprofit foundation administrative costs at $100,000 annually.

7. Prohibit General Fund (GF) moneys from being used for Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

8. Make other technical and clarifying changes.

EXISTING LAW establishes Cal Volunteers in the Governor's Office to manage programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

FISCAL EFFECT: According to the Senate Appropriations Committee:

1. Initial costs to Cal Volunteers would be in the range of $80,000 for one personnel year (PY) of staff to administer the California AmeriCorps STEM program, based upon an initial cap of 40 members for the first three years. Cal Volunteers estimates the need for 2.2 PY, at a cost of approximately $180,000, to implement and administer the program if the program grows to 150 members in future years. (General Fund (GF) and/or private funds)

2. Cal Volunteers estimates a need for $200,000 and one PY to staff the nonprofit foundation, but the bill limits administrative expenditures of the foundation to $100,000 per year. (GF and/or private funds)

3. Program costs would depend on the number of members participating in the program and the demand for STEM programs. For the first three years, the program is limited to 40 members, which would require approximately $1 million in non-GF program funds. If there is sufficient funding available, Cal Volunteers estimates a need for approximately $3.6 million in program funds if there are 150 members and 10 grantees. (Private funds, federal funds, local matching funds)

COMMENTS: Senate amendments specify the mission of the nonprofit foundation that Cal Volunteers is authorized to establish under this bill; impose an initial three-year cap of 40 participants in the Cal AmeriCorps STEM program; and, aim to reduce program costs.

Analysis Prepared by: Cassie Royce / A. & A.R. / (916) 319-3600 FN: 0001900

 THIRD READING  

Bill No: AB 706

Author: Bonilla (D), et al.

Amended: 8/31/15 in Senate

Vote: 21

SENATE GOVERNMENTAL ORG. COMMITTEE: 11-0, 7/14/15

AYES: Hall, Block, Gaines, Galgiani, Glazer, Hernandez, Hill, Hueso, Lara, McGuire, Runner

NO VOTE RECORDED: Berryhill, Vidak

SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: 6-0, 8/27/15

AYES: Lara, Beall, Hill, Leyva, Mendoza, Nielsen

NO VOTE RECORDED: Bates

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 80-0, 6/1/15 - See last page for vote

SUBJECT: CaliforniaVolunteers

SOURCE: Author

DIGEST: This bill creates the California AmeriCorps Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (Cal AmeriCorps STEM) program to be administered by the existing CaliforniaVolunteers, within the Governor’s Office, for the purpose of promoting STEM education and engaging students in STEM learning in schools as well as after school and neighborhood based programs.

ANALYSIS: Existing law establishes CaliforniaVolunteers (Executive Order S-24-06) in the Governor's Office with the specific mission to recruit and mobilize citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state and by recognizing citizen contributions as volunteers and participants in public service.

This bill:

1. Authorizes CaliforniaVolunteers, for so long as it is authorized to exist, to form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit corporation, or other tax-exempt entity, qualified under federal and state law to raise revenues and receive grants or other financial support from public or private sources, for the purpose of undertaking or funding any lawful activity authorized to be undertaken by California Volunteers.
   
   

2. Specifies that the mission of the nonprofit entity formed by CaliforniaVolunteers is to support the funding of California Americorps – STEM programming and administrative costs, and to support any other priorities set by the Governor or CaliforniaVolunteers.

3. Provides that financial support sought by the nonprofit corporation or other tax-exempt entity shall be used solely for the governmental purposes approved by CaliforniaVolunteers for activities within the scope of authority of California Volunteers.
   
   

4. Establishes Cal AmeriCorps STEM to be administered by CaliforniaVolunteers, and requires that it operate under the existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines.
   
   

5. Stipulates that Cal AmeriCorps STEM members shall be selected through an application process and that eligibility shall be based on the qualifications required for the federal AmeriCorps members, as of January 1, 2015, and all of the following:
   
   

   1. The applicant must have an associate or baccalaureate degree or be enrolled in a two-year or four-year postsecondary institution.
      
      

   2. The applicant must be 18 years of age or older and provide proof that he/she lives in California.
      
      

6. Limits the program to a maximum of 40 members for the first three years, and specifies that program size would be determined by available funding in future years.
   
   

7. Provides that a nonprofit corporation or a public entity may apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of STEM education, to CaliforniaVolunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more Cal AmeriCorps STEM members.
   
   

8. Declares that the purpose of Cal AmeriCorps STEM is to bring more STEM education programs into California schools, expanded learning programs, after school programs, and neighborhood and regional centers for children in order to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields.
   
   

9. Authorizes CaliforniaVolunteers to solicit and accept private funding to help supplement the costs of Cal AmeriCorps STEM from various sources including, but not limited to, foundations, corporations, crowdfunding, donation drives, or any other sources of private investment. Also, limits nonprofit foundation administrative costs to $100,000 annually and makes it explicit that General Fund moneys shall not be used for these STEM programs.

Background

AmeriCorps Program. Existing federal law establishes the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993, which requires each state governor to create and appoint a commission to administer the AmeriCorps volunteer program. AmeriCorps engages Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. AmeriCorps service assignments may be part time or full time and generally range from ten to 12 months. Service members receive a $7,400 stipend and qualifying members are eligible for an education award that can be used to pay for college or pay back student loans. To be eligible for a position with AmeriCorps, qualification guidelines focus on several factors, including citizenship, age, work experience, and education. Additional eligibility requirements vary depending on the particular program.

California Volunteers. Individual states can receive financial support for their own AmeriCorps program, which California does through California Volunteers. Under existing law, by Executive Order S-24-06, California Volunteers is established in the Governor’s Office and its duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Recruiting and mobilizing citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state and by recognizing citizens for the contributions they make as volunteers and participants in public service programs;

• Serving as the state’s lead agency for community service and volunteerism, informing the public of the value of and need for greater community service and volunteerism in California, calling upon all Californians to become involved, and challenging public and private institutions to create and support community service and volunteer opportunities; and,

• Partnering with other public agencies at the state, county, and local levels, and the private and nonprofit sectors to leverage greater resources and create more opportunities for service and volunteerism.

Purpose of AB 706. This bill essentially tasks California Volunteers with administering Cal AmeriCorps STEM to help facilitate early engagement in STEM-related projects to better prepare students for careers in STEM fields that are vital to the state's economy.

The author’s office notes that STEM education is an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to learning that provides hands-on and relevant learning experiences for students. STEM teaching and learning goes beyond the mere transfer of knowledge – it engages students and equips them with critical thinking, problem solving, creative and collaborative skills, and ultimately establishes connections between the school, work place, community and the global economy. STEM also helps students understand and apply math and science content, the foundations for success in college and careers.

The author’s office points out California students were recently found to be below the national and international average on science and math scores with only 67% of 8th grade students attaining the science standards. The author’s office states that a majority of STEM programming occurs in the expanded learning and afterschool space, however, of the 10,165 schools in California only 4,452 schools (44%) have any type of expanded learning/afterschool programming, much less a STEM-focused program. Additionally, studies done on the benefits of afterschool programming have shown that students in an afterschool program perform better on standardized test scores than students not participating. For example, students in Oakland Unified School District who attended their expanded learning programs for 100 days were about 10% more likely to score “proficient” or “advanced” on the California Standards Test.

Additionally, the author’s office cites a study done by the Institute for Higher Education Leadership and Policy at CSU Sacramento which projected multiple gaps in the STEM workforce in California. Specifically, about 35% of the STEM occupations requiring an Associate or Bachelor’s degree will experience a workforce shortage. The report also found that California ranks 45th in the share of high school students taking advanced science and math.

According to the author's office, existing law currently allows for STEM AmeriCorps programs, however even with existing programs STEM proficiency is lagging, there are not enough programs to support every school in California, and there is still a projected STEM workforce shortage. Of the programming funded by California Volunteers, only one has a STEM focus. The author’s office emphasizes that this bill will increase and add to the existing AmeriCorps programs and create new STEM-focused projects to address the gap in programming cited above. The author’s office also notes that the program will be limited to a maximum of 40 members for the first three years and that program size in future years would be determined by available funding.

This bill specifies that non-profits and public entities may apply individually or in partnership to California Volunteer, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more Cal AmeriCorps STEM members. California Volunteers will select the projects to which volunteers will be sent.

For funding purposes, this bill provides that California Volunteers may form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit corporation to raise revenue and receive grants or other financial support from private or public sources, for the purposes of undertaking or funding any lawful activity authorized to be undertaken by California Volunteers. This bill specifies that General Fund moneys may not be used for these STEM programs.

This bill requires the nonprofit corporation or other tax-exempt entity to use the financial support it seeks solely for the governmental purposes approved by California Volunteers for activities within the scope of authority of California Volunteers. This bill also makes it explicit that the authority granted to California Volunteers by this bill shall expire if the governor rescinds Executive Order S-24-06 or otherwise rescinds the establishment of California Volunteers.

Prior Legislation

AB 2328 (John A. Pérez, of 2014), would have created a California AmeriCorps program in state government to be administered by California Volunteers without the STEM focus and enabled local governments to compete to host service members. AB 2328 was vetoed by the Governor with the following message: "While the bill is well intentioned, California already has programs, such as the California Conservation Corps and the California Volunteers Service Enterprise Initiative, that couple volunteer service with educational scholarships. I encourage the Legislature to work through these programs to strengthen partnerships between volunteers and local governments."

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: No

According to the Senate Appropriations Committee, fiscal implications for this bill are as follows:

• Initial costs to California Volunteers would be in the range of $80,000 for 1 PY of staff to administer the California AmeriCorps STEM program, based upon an initial cap of 40 members for the first three years. California Volunteers estimates the need for 2.2 personnel years, at a cost of approximately $180,000, to implement and administer the program if the program grows to 150 members in future years. (General Fund and/or private funds)

• California Volunteers estimates a need for $200,000 and 1 PY to staff the nonprofit foundation, but this bill limits administrative expenditures of the foundation to $100,000 per year.  (General Fund and/or private funds)

• Program costs would depend on the number of members participating in the program and the demand for STEM programs.  For the first three years, the program is limited to 40 members, which would require approximately $1 million in non-General Fund program funds.  If there is sufficient funding available, California Volunteers estimates a need for approximately $3.6 million in program funds if there are 150 volunteer members and 10 grantees. (Private funds, federal funds, local matching funds)

SUPPORT:

(Verified 8/28/15)

American Association of State Service Commissions

Bay Area Community Resources

Bay Area Council

Bayer Health Care

California Catholic Conference

California Emerging Technology Fund

California Primary Care Association

California School Boards Association

California Science Teachers Association

California State PTA

California STEM Learning Network

California Workforce Association

Community Clinic Consortium of Contra Costa and Solano County

Dow Chemical Company

East Bay Leadership Council

Exploratorium

Gateway East Bay Stem Network

Hewlett-Packard Company

Industry Initiatives for Science and Math Education

Maker Education Initiative

Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America

Science is Elementary

Silicon Valley Education Foundation

Solano County Superintendent of Schools Jay Speck

The Children’s Initiative

OPPOSITION: (Verified 8/28/15)

None received

ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 80-0, 6/1/15

AYES: Achadjian, Alejo, Travis Allen, Baker, Bigelow, Bloom, Bonilla, Bonta, Brough, Brown, Burke, Calderon, Campos, Chang, Chau, Chávez, Chiu, Chu, Cooley, Cooper, Dababneh, Dahle, Daly, Dodd, Eggman, Frazier, Beth Gaines, Gallagher, Cristina Garcia, Eduardo Garcia, Gatto, Gipson, Gomez, Gonzalez, Gordon, Gray, Grove, Hadley, Harper, Roger Hernández, Holden, Irwin, Jones, Jones-Sawyer, Kim, Lackey, Levine, Linder, Lopez, Low, Maienschein, Mathis, Mayes, McCarty, Medina, Melendez, Mullin, Nazarian, Obernolte, O'Donnell, Olsen, Patterson, Perea, Quirk, Rendon, Ridley-Thomas, Rodriguez, Salas, Santiago, Steinorth, Mark Stone, Thurmond, Ting, Wagner, Waldron, Weber, Wilk, Williams, Wood, Atkins

Prepared by: Arthur Terzakis / G.O. / (916) 651-1530

8/31/15 15:13:05

**** END ****

SENATE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

Senator Ricardo Lara, Chair

2015 - 2016 Regular Session

AB 706 (Bonilla) - California Volunteers.

*********** ANALYSIS ADDENDUM – SUSPENSE FILE ***********

The following information is revised to reflect amendments

adopted by the committee on August 27, 2015

Bill Summary:

AB 706 would establish the California AmeriCorps – STEM, administered by CaliforniaVolunteers, to bring more science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education programs into existing learning environments and prepare youth for jobs in STEM fields.

Fiscal Impact:

• Initial costs to CaliforniaVolunteers would be in the range of $80,000 for 1 PY of staff to administer the California AmeriCorps STEM program, based upon an initial cap of 40 members for the first three years. CaliforniaVolunteers estimates the need for 2.2 personnel years, at a cost of approximately $180,000, to implement and administer the program if the program grows to 150 members in future years. (General Fund and/or private funds)

• CaliforniaVolunteers estimates a need for $200,000 and 1 PY to staff the nonprofit foundation, but the bill limits administrative expenditures of the foundation to $100,000 per year. (General Fund and/or private funds)

• Program costs would depend on the number of members participating in the program and the demand for STEM programs. For the first three years, the program is limited to 40 members, which would require approximately $1 million in non-General Fund program funds. If there is sufficient funding available, CaliforniaVolunteers estimates a need for approximately $3.6 million in program funds if there are 150 volunteer members and 10 grantees. (Private funds, federal funds, local matching funds)

Author Amendments:

• Specify that the mission of the nonprofit entity formed by CaliforniaVolunteers is to support the funding of California Americorps – STEM programming and administrative costs, and to support any other priorities set by the Governor or CaliforniaVolunteers.

• Limit the program to a maximum of 40 members for the first three years, and specify that program size would be determined by available funding in future years.

• Limit nonprofit foundation administrative costs to $100,000 annually.

• Specify that General Fund moneys may not be used for these STEM programs.

• Make technical changes.

-- END --

SENATE COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

Senator Ricardo Lara, Chair

2015 - 2016 Regular Session

AB 706 (Bonilla) - California Volunteers.

This bill meets the criteria for referral to the Suspense File.

Bill Summary:

AB 706 would establish the California AmeriCorps – STEM, administered by California Volunteers, to bring more science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education programs into schools, expanded learning and after school programs, and neighborhood and regional centers to prepare youth for jobs in STEM fields.

Fiscal Impact:

• California Volunteers estimates it would incur costs of approximately $180,000 for 2.2 PY of staff to administer the California AmeriCorps STEM program. (General Fund) California Volunteers estimates the need for 2.2 personnel years to implement and administer the program for an estimated 150 members.
  
  

• California Volunteers estimates a need for $200,000 and 1 PY to staff the nonprofit foundation. (General Fund)
  
  

• Program costs would depend on the number of members participating in the program and the demand for STEM programs. California Volunteers estimates a need for approximately $3.6 million in program funds if there are 150 volunteer members and 10 grantees. (Private funds, federal funds, local matching funds, and General Fund cost pressures to the extent private funds are insufficient to fully fund the program)

Background:

Existing law, pursuant to Executive Order S-24-06, establishes California Volunteers in the Governor's Office (housed within the Office of Planning and Research) with the following duties and responsibilities: (1) to recruit and mobilize citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state and by recognizing citizen contributions as volunteers and participants in public service; (2) to serve as the state’s lead agency for community service and volunteerism, as specified; and (3) to partner with other public agencies at the state, county, and local levels, and the private and not-for-profit sectors, to leverage greater resources and create more opportunities for service and volunteerism.

Existing federal law establishes the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993, which requires each state governor to create and appoint a commission to administer the AmeriCorps volunteer program. AmeriCorps operates under the Corporation for National and Community Service and is comprised of three programs that engage Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. AmeriCorps State and National, the largest of the three programs, supports a wide range of local service programs that provide grants to a network of local and national organizations and agencies committed to using service members to address critical community needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment.

AmeriCorps service assignments may be part time or full time and generally range from ten to 12 months. Service members receive a stipend, living allowance, and other benefits, and may also receive an education award upon completion of a term of service that can be used to pay for college expenses or pay back student loans. To be eligible for a position with AmeriCorps, qualification guidelines focus on several factors, including citizenship, age, work experience, and education. Additional eligibility requirements vary depending on the particular program.

California Volunteers administers the state AmeriCorps program, issuing annual requests for applications and awarding federal grants in a competitive process to eligible applicants, including local governments and nonprofit organizations. The grants support community partnerships that engage AmeriCorps members to meet state and local challenges through service and volunteer action.

Proposed Law:

AB 706 would establish California AmeriCorps – STEM in state government, administered by California Volunteers. Specifically, this bill would:

• Authorize California Volunteers to form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit corporation or other tax-exempt entity that is qualified to raise revenues and receive financial support from public or private sources, for the purpose of undertaking or funding authorized activities.

• Require financial support for a nonprofit entity to be used solely for governmental purposes approved by California Volunteers for activities within its authority.

• Establish California AmeriCorps – STEM and require it to operate under existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines.

• Require members to be selected through an application process and eligibility to be based upon federal qualifications. Applicants must also have an associate or baccalaureate degree or be enrolled in a postsecondary institution, be at least 18 years of age, and provide proof that he or she lives in California.

• Authorize a nonprofit corporation or a public entity to apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of STEM education, to California Volunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more California AmeriCorps – STEM members.

• Specify that the purpose of the program is to bring more STEM education programs into California schools, expanded learning programs, after school programs, and neighborhood and regional centers for children in order to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields.

• Authorize California Volunteers to solicit and accept private funding to supplement the costs of California AmeriCorps – STEM from various sources, including foundations, corporations, crowdfunding, donation drives, or any other private sources.

Related Legislation:

AB 2328 (J.Perez), which was vetoed by Governor Brown last year, would have established the California AmeriCorps, administered by California Volunteers pursuant to federal guidelines, to allow local agencies to apply to host members to implement specified AmeriCorps programs through a competitive selection process. The veto message stated the following:

While the bill is well intentioned, California already has programs, such as the California Conservation Corps and the California Volunteers Service Enterprise Initiative, that couple volunteer service with educational scholarships. I encourage the Legislature to work through these programs to strengthen partnerships between volunteers and local governments.

Staff Comments:

During the 2013 White House Science Fair, President Obama announced STEM AmeriCorps, a multi-year initiative to place hundreds of AmeriCorps members in nonprofits across the country to inspire young people to excel in STEM education. The goals of STEM AmeriCorps include improving academic performance in STEM coursework, expanding the number of students on track to graduate ready for college and for careers in STEM fields, increasing interactions between youth and STEM professionals, and sparking the imagination and interest of students to pursue STEM subjects.  AB 706 would establish a state AmeriCorps STEM program that is consistent with the goals of these federal efforts.

The total amount of program costs for local assistance grants would depend upon on the number of members approved by California Volunteers for participation in the program and the number of grantees that receive awards. It is anticipated that funding will be derived from a combination of private sources, federal funds, and a local grantee match. California Volunteers estimates the need for 2.2 PYs to implement and administer the program for an estimated 150 members at a cost of approximately $180,000 annually. At this level, local assistance costs are estimated to be approximately $3.6 million annually. It is anticipated that some level of state and federal funding will be needed to demonstrate sufficient commitment to attract private funding.

-- END --

SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION

Senator Isadore Hall, III

Chair

2015 - 2016 Regular

Bill No: AB 706 Hearing Date: 7/14/2015

SUBJECT: California Volunteers

DIGEST: This bill creates the California AmeriCorps Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (Cal AmeriCorps STEM) program to be administered by the existing California Volunteers, within the Governor’s Office, for the purpose of promoting STEM education and engaging students in STEM learning in schools as well as after school and neighborhood based programs.

ANALYSIS:

Existing law:

Establishes California Volunteers (Executive Order S-24-06) in the Governor's Office with the specific mission to recruit and mobilize citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state and by recognizing citizen contributions as volunteers and participants in public service.

This bill:

1. Authorizes California Volunteers, for so long as it is authorized to exist, to form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit corporation, or other tax-exempt entity, qualified under federal and state law to raise revenues and receive grants or other financial support from public or private sources, for the purpose of undertaking or funding any lawful activity authorized to be undertaken by California Volunteers.
   
   

2. Provides that financial support sought by the nonprofit corporation or other tax-exempt entity shall be used solely for the governmental purposes approved by California Volunteers for activities within the scope of authority of California Volunteers.
   
   

3. Establishes Cal AmeriCorps STEM to be administered by California Volunteers, and requires that it operate under the existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines.
   
   

4. Stipulates that Cal AmeriCorps STEM members shall be selected through an application process and that eligibility shall be based on the qualifications required for the federal AmeriCorps members, as of January 1, 2015, and all of the following:
   
   

   1. The applicant must have an associate or baccalaureate degree or be enrolled in a two-year or four-year postsecondary institution.
      
      

   2. The applicant must be 18 years of age or older and provide proof that he/she lives in California.
      
      

5. Provides that a nonprofit corporation or a public entity may apply, individually or in partnership with a corporation or individual interested in the promotion of STEM education, to California Volunteers, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more Cal AmeriCorps STEM members.
   
   

6. Declares that the purpose of Cal AmeriCorps STEM is to bring more STEM education programs into California schools, expanded learning programs, after school programs, and neighborhood and regional centers for children in order to prepare the next generation for jobs in the STEM fields.
   
   

7. Authorizes California Volunteers to solicit and accept private funding to help supplement the costs of Cal AmeriCorps STEM from various sources including, but not limited to, foundations, corporations, crowdfunding, donation drives, or any other sources of private investment.

Background

AmeriCorps Program. Existing federal law establishes the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993, which requires each state governor to create and appoint a commission to administer the AmeriCorps volunteer program. AmeriCorps engages Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. AmeriCorps service assignments may be part time or full time and generally range from ten to 12 months. Service members receive a $7,400 stipend and qualifying members are eligible for an education award that can be used to pay for college or pay back student loans. To be eligible for a position with AmeriCorps, qualification guidelines focus on several factors, including citizenship, age, work experience, and education. Additional eligibility requirements vary depending on the particular program.

California Volunteers: Individual states can receive financial support for their own AmeriCorps program, which California does through California Volunteers. Under existing law, by Executive Order S-24-06, California Volunteers is established in the Governor’s Office and its duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Recruiting and mobilizing citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state and by recognizing citizens for the contributions they make as volunteers and participants in public service programs;

• Serving as the state’s lead agency for community service and volunteerism, informing the public of the value of and need for greater community service and volunteerism in California, calling upon all Californians to become involved, and challenging public and private institutions to create and support community service and volunteer opportunities; and,

• Partnering with other public agencies at the state, county, and local levels, and the private and nonprofit sectors to leverage greater resources and create more opportunities for service and volunteerism.

Purpose of AB 706. This bill essentially tasks California Volunteers with administering Cal AmeriCorps STEM to help facilitate early engagement in STEM-related projects to better prepare students for careers in STEM fields that are vital to the state's economy.

The author’s office notes that STEM education is an integrated, interdisciplinary approach to learning that provides hands-on and relevant learning experiences for students. STEM teaching and learning goes beyond the mere transfer of knowledge – it engages students and equips them with critical thinking, problem solving, creative and collaborative skills, and ultimately establishes connections between the school, work place, community and the global economy. STEM also helps students understand and apply math and science content, the foundations for success in college and careers.

The author’s office points out California students were recently found to be below the national and international average on science and math scores with only 67% of 8th grade students attaining the science standards. The author’s office states that a majority of STEM programming occurs in the expanded learning and afterschool space, however, of the 10,165 schools in California only 4,452 schools (44%) have any type of expanded learning/afterschool programming, much less a STEM-focused program. Additionally, studies done on the benefits of afterschool programming have shown that students in an afterschool program perform better on standardized test scores than students not participating. For example, students in Oakland Unified School District who attended their expanded learning programs for 100 days were about 10% more likely to score “proficient” or “advanced” on the California Standards Test.

Additionally, the author’s office cites a study done by the Institute for Higher Education Leadership and Policy at CSU Sacramento which projected multiple gaps in the STEM workforce in California. Specifically, about 35% of the STEM occupations requiring an Associate or Bachelor’s degree will experience a workforce shortage. The report also found that California ranks 45th in the share of high school students taking advanced science and math.

According to the author's office, existing law currently allows for STEM AmeriCorps programs, however even with existing programs STEM proficiency is lagging, there are not enough programs to support every school in California, and there is still a projected STEM workforce shortage. Of the programming funded by California Volunteers, only one has a STEM focus. The author’s office emphasizes that this bill will increase and add to the existing AmeriCorps programs and create new STEM-focused projects to address the gap in programming cited above.

This bill specifies that non-profits and public entities may apply individually or in partnership to California Volunteer, through a competitive request for proposal process, to host one or more Cal AmeriCorps STEM members. California Volunteers will select the projects to which volunteers will be sent.

For funding purposes, the bill provides that California Volunteers may form a tax-exempt public benefit nonprofit corporation to raise revenue and receive grants or other financial support from private or public sources, for the purposes of undertaking or funding any lawful activity authorized to be undertaken by California Volunteers. This bill requires the nonprofit corporation or other tax-exempt entity to use the financial support it seeks solely for the governmental purposes approved by California Volunteers for activities within the scope of authority of California Volunteers. This bill also makes it explicit that the authority granted to California Volunteers by this bill shall expire if the governor rescinds Executive Order S-24-06 or otherwise rescinds the establishment of California Volunteers.

Staff comments. AB 2328 (John A. Pérez, of 2014), would have created a California AmeriCorps program in state government to be administered by California Volunteers without the STEM focus and enabled local governments to compete to host service members. AB 2328 was vetoed by the Governor with the following message: "While the bill is well intentioned, California already has programs, such as the California Conservation Corps and the California Volunteers Service Enterprise Initiative, that couple volunteer service with educational scholarships. I encourage the Legislature to work through these programs to strengthen partnerships between volunteers and local governments."

Prior/Related Legislation

AB 2328 (John A. Perez, 2014) would have established “California AmeriCorps” to be administered by California Volunteers, within the Governor’s Office, and operated under the existing federal AmeriCorps program guidelines. (Vetoed)

FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: No

SUPPORT:

American Association of State Service Commissions

Bay Area Community Resources

Bay Area Council

Bayer Health Care

California Catholic Conference

California Emerging Technology Fund

California Primary Care Association

California School Boards Association

California Science Teachers Association

California State PTA

California STEM Learning Network

California Workforce Association

Community Clinic Consortium of Contra Costa and Solano County

Dow Chemical Company

East Bay Leadership Council

Exploratorium

Gateway East Bay Stem Network

Hewlett-Packard Company

Industry Initiatives for Science and Math Education

Maker Education Initiative

Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America

Science is Elementary

Silicon Valley Education Foundation

Solano County Superintendent of Schools Jay Speck

The Children’s Initiative

OPPOSITION:

None received

ASSEMBLY THIRD READING

ATR Bill Id:AB 706

Author:(Bonilla)

As Amended Ver:April 6, 2015

Majority vote

SUMMARY: Establishes the California AmeriCorps Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (Cal AmeriCorps STEM) program in state government. Specifically, this bill:

1. Creates Cal AmeriCorps STEM to be administered by California Volunteers (Cal Volunteers), an entity in the Governor's Office established by Executive Order S-24-06.

2. Requires Cal AmeriCorps STEM to operate under the existing federal AmeriCorps guidelines.

3. Specifies that members of Cal AmeriCorps STEM must be selected through an application process and establishes eligibility criteria based on the existing qualifications for federal AmeriCorps and all of the following:

   1. The applicant must have an associate or a bachelor's degree;

   2. The applicant must provide proof of incurred student loan debt;

   3. The applicant must be 21 years of age or older; and,

   4. The applicant must provide proof that he or she lives in California.

4. Allows nonprofits or public entities to apply, individually or in conjunction with corporations or individuals interested in promoting STEM education, to Cal Volunteers to host Cal AmeriCorps STEM members through a competitive request for proposal process.

5. Declares the purpose of Cal AmeriCorps STEM is to bring more STEM education programs into California schools, after school programs, and local communities to prepare the next generation for jobs in STEM fields.

6. Authorizes Cal Volunteers to solicit and accept private funding from a variety of sources to help supplement the costs of Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

FISCAL EFFECT: According to the Assembly Appropriations Committee:

1. On-going administrative costs to Cal Volunteers estimated at $180,000 General Fund for 2.2 Personal Years to implement and administer the program for an estimated 150 members and 10 additional grantees.

2. Significant on-going program costs in the range of $2 million to $4 million, depending on the number of participants, to provide stipends and education awards to program members (Various funds). It is anticipated that the money will come from a combination of private sources, federal funds, and a local grantee match.

COMMENTS: AmeriCorps is a national network of hundreds of programs throughout the United States that engage Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. Service members receive a $7,400 stipend and are eligible for an education award that can be used to pay for college or pay back student loans. Several factors, including citizenship, age, work experience, and education, are considered when qualifying for a position with AmeriCorps. Additional eligibility requirements vary depending on the particular program.

California receives federal financial support for its AmeriCorps program through Cal Volunteers. Cal Volunteers was established with the specific mission to recruit and mobilize citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state. This bill tasks Cal Volunteers with administering Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

According to the author, only one of the many environmental, educational, mentoring, and social support programs currently administered and funded by Cal Volunteers has a STEM focus. The author points out that there is a tremendous need for expanding STEM-specific programming in California in response to data showing that the state's eighth graders are below the national average in science and math test scores. The author states this bill is intended to facilitate early engagement in STEM-related projects to better prepare college students for careers in STEM fields that are vital to the state's economy.

Analysis Prepared by: Cassie Royce / A. & A.R. / (916) 319-3600 FN: 0000625

Date of Hearing: April 29, 2015

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON APPROPRIATIONS

Jimmy Gomez, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AB 706

Author:(Bonilla) – As Amended Ver:April 6, 2015

Urgency: No State Mandated Local Program: No Reimbursable: No

SUMMARY:

This bill establishes the California AmeriCorps Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (Cal AmeriCorps STEM) program in state government. Specifically, this bill:

1. Creates Cal AmeriCorps STEM to be administered by California Volunteers (Cal Volunteers), an entity in the Governor's Office established by Executive Order S-24-06.
   
   

2. Requires Cal AmeriCorps STEM to operate under the existing federal AmeriCorps guidelines.
   
   

3. Specifies that members of Cal AmeriCorps STEM be selected through an application process and establishes eligibility criteria based on the existing qualifications for AmeriCorps and all of the following requiring the applicant to:
   
   

   1. Have an associate or a bachelor's degree.

   2. Provide proof of incurred student loan debt.

   3. Be 21 years of age or older.

   4. Provide proof that he or she lives in California.
      
      

4. Allows nonprofits or public entities to apply, individually or in conjunction with corporations or individuals interested in promoting STEM education, to Cal Volunteers to host Cal AmeriCorps STEM members through a competitive request for proposal process.
   
   

5. Authorizes Cal Volunteers to solicit and accept private funding from a variety of sources to help supplement the costs of Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

FISCAL EFFECT:

1. On-going administrative costs to Cal Volunteers estimated at $180,000 (GF) for 2.2 PYs to implement and administer the program for an estimated 150 members and 10 additional grantees.

2. Significant on-going program costs in the range of $2 million - $4 million, depending on the number of participants, to provide stipends and education awards to program members (Various funds). It is anticipated that the money will come from a combination of private sources, federal funds, and a local grantee match.

COMMENTS:

1. Purpose. The author notes a tremendous need for expanding STEM-specific programming in California in response to data showing that the state's eighth graders are below the national average in science and math test scores. According to the author, only one of the many environmental, educational, mentoring, and social support programs currently administered and funded by Cal Volunteers has a STEM focus. This bill is intended to facilitate early engagement in STEM-related projects to better prepare college students for careers in STEM fields that are vital to the state's economy.

2. Existing Programs.

1. AmeriCorps. AmeriCorps is a national network of hundreds of programs throughout the U.S. that engages Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. AmeriCorps service assignments many be part time or full time and generally range from ten to 12 months. Service members receive a $7,400 stipend and qualifying members are eligible for an education award that can be used to pay for college or pay back student loans. To be eligible for a position with AmeriCorps, qualification guidelines focus on several factors, including citizenship, age, work experience, and education. Additional eligibility requirements vary depending on the particular program.

2. Cal Volunteers. Individual states can receive financial support for their own AmeriCorps program, which California does through Cal Volunteers. Cal Volunteers is established in the Governor’s Office with the specific mission to recruit and mobilize citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state. This bill tasks Cal Volunteers with administering Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

3. Prior Legislation. AB 2328 (John A. Pérez) of 2014, would have created the Cal AmeriCorps program administered by Cal Volunteers without the STEM focus and enabled local governments to compete to host service members. AB 2328 was vetoed by the Governor with the following message: "While the bill is well intentioned, California already has programs, such as the California Conservation Corps and the California Volunteers Service Enterprise Initiative, that couple volunteer service with educational scholarships. I encourage the Legislature to work through these programs to strengthen partnerships between volunteers and local governments."

Analysis Prepared by: Jennifer Swenson / APPR. / (916) 319-2081

Date of Hearing: April 15, 2015

ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON ACCOUNTABILITY AND ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW

Rudy Salas, Chair

ABPCA Bill Id:AB 706

Author:Bonilla – As Amended Ver:April 6, 2015

SUBJECT: California AmeriCorps – STEM

SUMMARY: Establishes the California AmeriCorps Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (Cal AmeriCorps STEM) program in state government. Specifically, this bill:

1. Creates Cal AmeriCorps STEM to be administered by CaliforniaVolunteers (Cal Volunteers), an entity in the Governor's Office established by Executive Order S-24-06.
   
   

2. Requires Cal AmeriCorps STEM to operate under the existing federal AmeriCorps guidelines.
   
   

3. Specifies that members of Cal AmeriCorps STEM must be selected through an application process and establishes eligibility criteria based on the existing qualifications for AmeriCorps and all of the following:
   
   

   1. The applicant must have an associate or a bachelor's degree;

   2. The applicant must provide proof of incurred student loan debt;

   3. The applicant must be 21 years of age or older; and,

   4. The applicant must provide proof that he or she lives in California.
      
      

4. Allows nonprofits or public entities to apply, individually or in conjunction with corporations or individuals interested in promoting STEM education, to Cal Volunteers to host Cal AmeriCorps STEM members through a competitive request for proposal process.
   
   

5. Declares the purpose of Cal AmeriCorps STEM is to bring more STEM education programs into California schools, after school programs, and local communities to prepare the next generation for jobs in STEM fields.
   
   

6. Authorizes Cal Volunteers to solicit and accept private funding from a variety of sources to help supplement the costs of Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

EXISTING LAW establishes Cal Volunteers in the Governor's Office to manage programs and initiatives for service and volunteerism.

FISCAL EFFECT: Unknown

COMMENTS: AmeriCorps is a national network of hundreds of programs throughout the U.S. that engage Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies, and community and faith-based groups across the country. Service members receive a $7,400 stipend and are eligible for an education award that can be used to pay for college or pay back student loans. Several factors, including citizenship, age, work experience, and education, are considered when qualifying for a position with AmeriCorps. Additional eligibility requirements vary depending on the particular program.

California receives federal financial support for its AmeriCorps program through Cal Volunteers. Cal Volunteers was established with the specific mission to recruit and mobilize citizens for volunteer service by identifying service opportunities throughout the state. This bill tasks Cal Volunteers with administering Cal AmeriCorps STEM.

According to the author, only one of the many environmental, educational, mentoring, and social support programs currently administered and funded by Cal Volunteers has a STEM focus. The author points out that there is a tremendous need for expanding STEM-specific programming in California in response to data showing that the state's eighth graders are below the national average in science and math test scores. The author states this bill is intended to facilitate early engagement in STEM-related projects to better prepare college students for careers in STEM fields that are vital to the state's economy.

PRIOR LEGISLATION: AB 2328 (John A. Pérez) of 2014 would have created the Cal AmeriCorps program administered by Cal Volunteers without the STEM focus and enabled local governments to compete to host service members. AB 2328 was vetoed by the Governor with the following message: "While the bill is well intentioned, California already has programs, such as the California Conservation Corps and the California Volunteers Service Enterprise Initiative, that couple volunteer service with educational scholarships. I encourage the Legislature to work through these programs to strengthen partnerships between volunteers and local governments."

REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:

Support

Bay Area Community Resources

Bayer

California Primary Care Association

California Science Teachers Association

California Workforce Association

Exploratorium

Industry Initiatives for Science and Math Education

Maker Education Initiative

Opposition

None on file

Analysis Prepared by: Cassie Royce / A. & A.R. / (916) 319-3600