BILL ANALYSIS
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THIRD READING
Bill No: SCR 70
Author: Hancock (D)
Amended: As introduced
Vote: 21
WITHOUT REFERENCE TO COMMITTEE OR FILE
SUBJECT : 22nd Annual State Scientist Day
SOURCE : California Association of Professional
Scientists
DIGEST : This resolution declares May 19, 2010, as the
22nd Annual State Scientist Day, as a tribute to the
dedication and professionalism of the state scientists who
work on behalf of all Californians.
ANALYSIS :
Legislative Findings
1.The State of California employs nearly 3,000 professional
scientists in over 30 state departments working in more
than 230 scientific classifications.
2.State scientists hold graduate degrees in virtually every
scientific discipline, including nematology, virology,
seismology, epidemiology, toxicology, and many others.
State scientists perform important work in the areas of
infectious disease prevention, oil spill prevention and
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cleanup, public health drinking water monitoring, the
protection of agricultural crops, brownfield mitigation,
chemical and radiological disaster response, and much
more. The work of state scientists protects the public
from life-threatening diseases, safeguards our wildlife
and abundant natural resources, and protects our air and
water from toxic waste and pollution.
3.If California loses its scientific expertise, the state
will go unarmed in the battles against greenhouse gas
emissions, air pollution, and the overall protection of
children's health, according to a 2006 California
Environmental Protection Agency report.
4.The Governor wrote in October 2007 that "I value the
dedication and work of the State's scientists, and I am
concerned that salaries for this group may have fallen
behind those of comparable workers" and that he wants to
ensure "that the State is moving in the direction of
achieving fair and equitable compensation for the
scientists."
5.State scientists are represented by the California
Association of Professional Scientists, which is
dedicated to professionalism, independence, responsible
advocacy, and ensuring that state scientists receive fair
pay and benefits for their important work.
6.State scientists host an annual State Scientist Day at
the State Capitol to increase public awareness and
recognition of the significant contributions made by
scientists working in state government while entertaining
and educating over 2,000 elementary school students with
fun, hands-on science exhibits, including digging for
hidden artifacts, viewing live fish in a 1,500-gallon
tank, and playing Pollution Prevention "Wheel of Fortune"
and Coastal Creature "Jeopardy".
FISCAL EFFECT : Fiscal Com.: No
SUPPORT : (Verified 4/6/10)
California Association of Professional Scientists (source)
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CPM:cm 4/6/10 Senate Floor Analyses
SUPPORT/OPPOSITION: SEE ABOVE
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