On June 15th, the Democratic majority in the state legislature passed a budget filled with gimmicks and not one Republican vote. Some would say they did it all to protect their own paychecks, even as 11% of Californians are unemployed.
I am deeply disappointed that instead of curbing California’s massive spending problem, the Democrat-proposed budget relied on the ‘realignment’ of spending. ‘Realignment’ is government-speak for shifting, transferring, and borrowing money from one government program to another. ‘Realignment’ does nothing to address the serious nature of our state’s budget crisis. It only prolongs it.
This budget highlights the need for California to adopt real solutions, rather than merely pushing its fiscal insolvency onto future generations. The budget requires substantial pension reform, pro-business policies for job creation, and a limit on spending. We need courageous leadership from Sacramento to help California live within its means. A sound budget with real reform is the first big step toward assuming this leadership.
Furthermore, the legislature’s budget highlights the need for my Assembly Bill 998. This would require budget language to be available online for public view seventy-two hours before any votes can be taken. Accountability in every area of government will ensure Californians receive the representation the United States Constitution ensures them.
As we know, Governor Brown vetoed the legislature’s budget within a matter of hours. Unfortunately, the governor’s battle with his Democratic legislator colleagues is so far removed from fiscal responsibility that our situation remains dire.
Nevertheless, I am hopeful because of the leadership displayed by my colleagues and me in the Assembly Republican Caucus (ARC). The ARC proposed its own budget with real solutions that could return fiscal solvency to California, while protecting education and public safety.
As the governor and legislature continue to work toward a solution, I will continue to promote the principles of liberty and fiscal responsibility in Sacramento. And I’ll keep you posted …