Students give thumbs up for Prop. 30

Students’ ears perked at the mention of a refund with the passing of Proposition 30 after the election, and the two-part reimbursement plan, which President F. King Alexander deemed a “logistical nightmare,” has satisfied most students’ expectations.

The proposition raises California’s sales tax and income taxes for those who make more than $250,000 a year, with the extra revenue going towards funding for education. Prop. 30 passed with 53.9 percent of the vote.

After voting “yes” on Prop. 30, senior economics major Matthew Sanchez said he was expecting a decrease in tuition, but the potential refund to students was “icing on the cake.”

“I didn’t want to see a fee hike,” Sanchez said. “I don’t know how it’s going to work ... but as long as we see the money at some point, it doesn’t bother me.”

The refund will be given in two payments of $249. The first payment will reduce spring tuition and the second will either further reduce spring 2013 tuition by $249 or may be sent back as a refund check to students who fill out a request form.

Students received an email from early last week detailing the refund process and how Prop. 30 would relate to financial aid and future tuition. Some students have been overwhelmed by the information and technicalities behind Prop. 30, while others are just ready for the refund.

“It’s good news,” Keitryce Williams, a sophomore pre-biology student, said. “I’m still looking at the positive side and hoping it won’t take too long for them to give back the funds.”

Associated Students Inc. Vice President Jonathon Bolin said the refund process will be “totally logical.”

“We’re still figuring it out, and this is all unprecedented,” Bolin said. “But no matter what, if you put money into the pot, you’re getting money back.”

However, students who received a full scholarship or financial aid will not be able to receive a refund.

Bolin also said that this is the first time in 12 years that tuition has not increased.

Marisa Castillo, a freshman child development major, said she’s not disappointed with Prop. 30’s outcome.

“I voted for Prop. 30,” Castillo said. “The money we get back will help us with books next semester, and it’s good to know this proposition will help.”

Refunds are being prepared for disbursement to students, according to Bolin.