Hillarysworld

Is there a population slump in California? I am wondering if the massive reduction in college admission reflect/follows population trend.. or if it will lead to glut of excess low education/skill/confidence labor and unemployment at low income levels.

I have given this issue some thought.

First, I think it is wrong move for a state system to make a disproportionate adjustment to percent of population that receives the privilege of college education. That should remain relative constant to positively increasing in general. Type of education/focus areas can shift to match trends and forecast of opportunities in the long-run, but not reduce education "seats" to match short-term prospects. This is not socialism.  The state-run college are in the business of providing education and if they were not, there would be some private colleges in their place.

Effect of creating education voids/RATIONING in the state-run system will result in creation of a new class of "education have-nots" that will become a longer-term challenge for the state.  It will lead to more immediate additional unemployment and under-employment and a greater reduction in the flow of money in the economy.. unless the assumption is that they will all be absorbed at higher cost private colleges.. which may not be a realistic assumption.

At individual levels, the worst likely effect of such rationing will be some resentment against the government for manipulating one's life.  It is the reverse effect of when you get a scholarship; you feel redeemed. Without the education, you feel cheated.. and that will be reinforced every day possibly for the rest of your life.

Now, why would a government want to do that to their people, their economy and their future?  They are simply being very myopic in their thinking.