Senator Scott Wilk’s proposal to investigate the possibility of establishing a California State University Campus in the High Desert has advanced, having successfully passed the Senate Education Committee. Wilk emphasized the potential benefits of such a campus, stating, “The High Desert is an oasis of affordability and growth in California, but there is still so much more potential worth tapping into. Creating easier access to higher education would significantly cut down students’ commute times, alleviate overcrowding at current CSUs, and benefit people in rural regions who have historically had a harder time pursuing a four-year degree. It would be a win all around.”
Senate Bill 1023, introduced by Wilk, seeks to authorize the CSU Chancellor to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing an independent CSU campus in the High Desert. The bill does not impose any mandates on the CSU system until private funding for the study is secured. Wilk highlighted the challenges faced by students in rural areas, noting that distance from existing state universities often hinders access to higher education. Currently, the closest CSU campus to the Victor Valley is CSU San Bernardino, requiring a lengthy commute on I-15.
Wilk expressed optimism about the potential of a new CSU campus in the High Desert, stating, “With more people fleeing the state, we have a real opportunity to ensure future generations can pursue higher education and their career goals right here at home. It’s high time to explore what can be done.” Senate Bill 1023 will now proceed to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.
