At the same time that California's community colleges are experiencing a historic increase in demand, they are facing funding cuts along with nearly every other public service in the state.

These funding reductions are causing campuses to reduce course sections and student support services just when more Californians want to attend.

This issue brief focuses on the 2009-10 budget for California's community colleges, including the sources of funding, where they were cut, and pressures campuses face as student demand grows.

Highlights:

• State leaders repeatedly revised the 2008–09 and 2009–10 budgets in response to worsening economic news
• The bulk of community colleges’ revenues comes from state funds and local property taxes
• Cuts and adjustments to general purpose funding will affect the courses and services colleges offer
• Categorical funds were reduced by about 40%
• Policy changes could help lessen the financial impact on community colleges

EdSource thanks the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, whose core support enabled the development and dissemination of this issue brief.