On January 7 Governor Jerry Brown proposed a $122.6 billion state budget. Spending was increased for education, health care, state infrastructure, debt pay down and increase the state’s rainy day fund to $8 billion. “Relative to budgets of the past, this budget is in good shape,” Brown said of his 2016-17 spending plan. “We also ought to look at what’s the capacity of the state, and what’s the taxpayer willingness to spend more.”
Whether the Republicans and Democrats can agree with the Governor on the main spending issues is yet to be seen. Already, several praises and criticisms have been offered in the form of official responses. The following statements reflect a sample of how our lawmakers are considering the pros and cons of the proposed budget.
Mark Stone, a ScottsValley resident and CA State Assemblymember (D-MontereyBay) has issued a statement regarding Governor Brown’s proposed 2016-17 state budget. “With this proposed budget, Governor Brown has highlighted the necessity to improve outcomes for youth in foster care. As the author of 2015 legislation that comprehensively reforms the foster care placement system (AB 403), I applaud the inclusion of new funds for foster family recruitment and targeted training, expanded services to youth, and additional oversight of facilities and individuals serving youth. I am excited to work with my colleagues in the legislature to ensure that the new reforms best protect and help youth in foster care.”
From around the State, many other observations about Governor Brown’s proposed 2016-17 state budget are being expressed. Weighing in on the topic is the Board of Equalization Vice Chair George Runner who said, “I’m pleased that the Governor continues to take a cautious approach to the budget. While California’s economy improves, it makes sense to strengthen our rainy day fund. During this time of additional revenue, the Governor should also be commended for keeping his promise to voters to end temporary tax increases on schedule.”
Assemblymember Rocky Chávez (R-Oceanside) announced his response saying, “I appreciate the Governor for showing fiscal restraint with his anticipation of a future recession, as well as finally putting Prop 30 funds where they were originally intended: K-12, higher education and workforce training spending. While revenues look promising, we must stay cautious with spending and be vigilant with paying down debt so we can avoid the hardships of years past,” said Chavez.
“I agree with the Governor’s challenge to the UC Regents to address their pension concerns. College affordability is a major issue for many in this State and addressing this problem is an important step in alleviating the issue,” continued Chavez.
“My areas of concern are the stagnant funding sources for adult education, as well as the absence of clarity for the California Department of Veteran Affairs’ budget and lack of support for our veterans in the state.”
SBOE Member Fiona Ma, CPA, released the following statement in reaction to the Governor’s 2016-17 Budget Proposal: “The Governor’s budget proposal is a continuation of the balanced approach he and the Legislature have taken over the last several budget years: a bedrock commitment to fiscal responsibility as well as prudent investments that help our economy grow, like the California Earned Income Tax Credit for working families.”
As the budget process begins in earnest, she urges members of the Legislature and the Governor work together to put forward an alternative to the current approach to fuel taxes and transportation funding. The way SBOE currently sets the fuel tax rate requires forecasting what gas prices will be a full 18 months into the future. Ma said, “Our roads and highways need a better approach than best-guessing where a volatile market will be that far in the future, and local governments across the state with urgent transportation needs should have a more stable and reliable approach to transportation funding.”
Ma commends the governor for his forward thinking approach in calling for $1.5 billion in investments to renovate and modernize the California state office building. “This is an issue that affects SBOE directly, and the Governor is right to note that a small investment now will save from much costlier emergency repairs and upgrades later, as the ongoing costs of emergency repairs at SBOE Headquarters have repeatedly shown.”
Assembly Republican Leader Chad Mayes of Yucca Valley, made this statement: “While additional money is good news, we must not spend it as if it will reappear every year. We’ve made this mistake before. Democrats should pay attention to the Legislative Analyst and Governor Brown’s warnings about overspending, and balance the need to invest in critical infrastructure projects to improve our roads, schools and dams with one-time money. These investments will benefit us for generations.
“Additionally, we must pay attention to those left behind by an economic recovery that has largely benefitted the wealthy. Assembly Republicans will be focused on restoring California’s middle class and providing opportunities for those trapped in the cycle of poverty,” said Mayes. “This starts by making sure that such programs are effective and run efficiently. It’s time to invest in people and infrastructure to build a stronger California.”
