California’s hard working students should be the number one priority of our public universities, but sadly that is not always the case. At several UC campuses students from out-of-state have been granted admission at dramatically higher rates than California students, something that stands in stark contrast to the University of California’s mission.

That’s why Senator Bob Huff and I have introduced Senate Constitutional Amendment 12, which addresses the recent influx of out-of-state and international students in the University of California system. Specifically, SCA 12 would confirm that the primary purpose and obligation of the University of California is to serve the students of California and require the University of California to give priority admission to applicants who are California residents.

Between 2010 and 2015, the system-wide number of California undergraduates declined while the number of non-resident undergraduates surged by more than 20,000 students. The non-resident fees paid by these students provide the University of California nearly half a billion dollars in additional revenue each year. The University of California’s open pursuit of the $24,000.00 in additional fees paid annually by each non-resident student has raised public concerns. SCA 12 will ensure that California residents are not displaced by less qualified non-resident students simply because the University of California is after higher fees.

SCA 12 is an important reminder that the University of California’s obligation is to the taxpayer and our state’s students. Our best and brightest deserve better than to come in second place to less qualified out-of-state students who are willing to pay higher fees.

SCA 12 passed the Senate Education Committee with overwhelming support and is now waiting to be heard in the Senate Committee on Elections and Constitutional Amendments.

For more information on this important measure, or to register your support for SCA 12 please visit my California Students First website at http://runner.cssrc.us/californiastudentsfirst.

Sharon Runner, R-Lancaster, represents California’s 21st Senate District, which includes communities in the Santa Clarita, Antelope and Victor valleys.