League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Alameda, Santa Clara County, CA March 2, 2004 Election
	Dennis Hayashi Answers Questions Candidate for Member of the State Assembly; District 20; Democratic Party

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. What does California need to do to address the current budget crisis?

The state's budget crisis was not created overnight. It will not be solved overnight or with quick fixes. I don't believe we can "cut" our way out of the problem. Nor do I think we can increase taxes arbitrarily. We must look at spending, look at closing tax loopholes and search for a solution to the partisan bickering that bogs down the Legislature every year the budget comes to pass.

Jobs: We must commit ourselves to creating jobs that come with fair wages and health care benefits. We must also look at the growing problem of outsourcing...too many jobs are leaving our state and going to foreign countries. California is still a great place to do business. If I am elected I will work with other elected officials to promote the benefits of doing business in California.

2. What should the state's priorities be for K-12 education? For the Community College System?

My parent's generation sustained one of the best public education systems in the world. It served as a model of excellence and as means for opportunity. When I was a young man, it was still possible to put oneself through college. Now, I am afraid cost of living increases coupled with higher tuition has made a higher education out of reach for many Californians. I will look for ways to balance our budget without impacting students.

3. What measures would you support to address California's water needs?

We must practice better water conservation and protect the water systems we have in place.

4. What should the Legislature be doing to address the needs of Californians without health insurance?

I envision a health care system that is affordable and allows Californians to receive quality medical treatment when it is needed...without the fear that a trip to the doctor will cause bankruptcy.