1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The proposed cuts to NASA's budget would have devastating impacts on California's economy and workforce, particularly at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and related aerospace industries. As a state leader, you have a responsibility to advocate for the preservation of these vital scientific and technological assets. Here are some key points to consider: - JPL alone employs over 5,000 scientists, engineers, and support staff, many of whom could face layoffs if these cuts are implemented. This would result in a significant brain drain and loss of invaluable expertise. - Beyond direct employment, JPL and NASA projects drive innovation and support countless jobs across California's aerospace, technology, and academic sectors through contracts, collaborations, and research funding. - The cuts would undermine critical climate research and monitoring efforts led by JPL, compromising our ability to understand and respond to the impacts of climate change, which pose severe risks to California's environment, economy, and public health. - Losing NASA's leadership in space exploration and Earth science would diminish America's global standing, technological edge, and economic competitiveness, allowing other nations to surpass us. While this is ultimately a federal decision, the state has a vested interest in protecting its vital industries, intellectual capital, and economic prosperity. As a state leader, you must use all available means to firmly oppose these reckless cuts, engage with California's congressional delegation, and make a strong case for continued investment in NASA, JPL, and the countless benefits they provide to the state and nation. The long-term consequences of inaction could be disastrous.