On November 6th, California voters will decide whether or not to raise taxes to help schools and public safety.
Proposition 30 promises more money for education, but not all of the money will go toward schools.
If passed, California voters would pay an additional $50 billion in taxes over the next 7 years.
The proposition was debated at Fresno State on Thursday.
Student Democrats and Republicans debated an issue that will have a direct impact on their education.
Prop 30 would raise the state sales tax by one-quarter of a cent for four years and raise income tax rates for the wealthy for seven years.
If it fails, it could mean a 5% tuition hike for students.
Prop 30 supporter Shahani Waas said, "We are a country that values education and the fact that they are taking out the money that's supposed to be allocated, our tax money, I just feel like they need to do something better."
Those who oppose the proposition say now is not the time. Lori Nakaguchi said, "In a recession, you don't raise taxes. And even in the university system, I think there are places for cuts. I think one of the big places they could cut is to take remedial education out of the university system."
One thing those on both sides of the issue agree on: "Everybody needs to get involved and be informed," said Lori. "It's incredibly important for students to get informed on this, I mean at the end of the day it does affect them," said Shahani.
If Prop 30 passes, not all of the money will go toward schools. If voters say no to the $50 billion tax hike, K-12 schools will take the biggest cuts, not state colleges.
CBS47 will be airing a 5-part special on the state of education here in California beginning on Monday on the CBS47 News at 11:00 p.m.
