An undergraduate representative from the Associated Students UCLA Board of Directors encouraged students to vote for a referendum that would increase ASUCLA funding at a Thursday debate. 

The USA Elections Board and the Daily Bruin co-hosted a series of debates between candidates in the upcoming Undergraduate Students Association Council election. Referendums require a majority of voting students’ for approval, and referendums that adjust student fees – including the Bruin Life and Undergraduate Education Referendum – require at least a 20% turnout.

Sarai Rojas, an undergraduate representative for the ASUCLA Board of Directors, represented the BLUE referendum at the debate. 

The BLUE Referendum would implement a $27 quarterly fee beginning in fall 2026, according to the referendum. 

The largest portion of the fee – $16 – would fund operations in buildings including Ackerman Union and Kerckhoff Hall, as well as a $1 per hour wage increase for ASUCLA student employees. Six dollars would support identity-based Student Media publications, and $5 would create a catering fund for student-run events.

Rojas, a second-year political science student, said the additional quarterly fee is an investment in student traditions and campus life. Rojas added that it is important to increase wages to support student workers’ well being. 

“At its core, this is a student-driven investment in making sure campus life remains active, accessible and supported as the demand continues to grow,” Rojas said. “This is about ensuring every student in our association can fully participate.” 

Students can vote in the election on MyUCLA starting May 8 at 8 a.m. until May 15 at noon.