BILL NUMBER:  AB 144
  VETOED	DATE: 10/10/2001




10/10/01

To Members of the California State Assembly:

I am returning, Assembly Bill 144 without my signature.

This bill would permit all applicants or recipients for Cal WORKS
cash aid and food stamps to retain a motor vehicle with a fair market
value of $15,000 or less if employed or engaged in work related
activities.  In addition, applicants or recipients who are victims of
abuse would be permitted to retain a vehicle regardless of the value
until they are no longer subject to or at risk of abuse.

This bill will increase CalWORKs caseloads and grant costs because
more families would become or remain eligible for assistance.  It
will also increase the California Food Assistance Program caseload
resulting in additional General Fund expenditures.  Given the rapid
decline of our economy and a budget shortfall of $1.1 billion through
the first three months of this fiscal year alone, I have no choice
but to oppose additional General Fund spending.



Sincerely,





GRAY DAVIS