The budget proposal unveiled today by Gov. Jerry Brown is sure to ignite an epic debate about the future of California.
Brown’s proposal contains a number of cuts that are difficult to stomach. Many of these cuts would impact our state’s most vulnerable at a time when the economic crisis continues to batter our families. Major cuts to higher education are of great concern. How are we going to compete in a global economy unless we are producing a skilled, educated workforce ready to meet the challenges ahead? But as bad as the proposed cuts are, it stands to get much worse unless voters approve an extension of taxes already in place.
California Labor Federation Executive Secretary Treasurer Art Pulaski:
Today’s budget proposal underscores the seriousness of California’s ongoing economic crisis. While Gov. Brown’s proposal isn’t perfect, it at least strikes a much-needed balance between cuts and revenues. Our state simply can’t sustain a cuts-only budget if we’re to have any hope of emerging from the current economic morass.
Brown’s plan, as outlined today, is to extend taxes already in place for five years. That would, at least, spare K-12 funding major cuts that our schools can ill-afford after several years of Schwarzenegger’s slash-and-burn budgets. The tax extension is likely to take the form of a special election in June. Blowhards like Grover Norquist are already threatening Republicans who would even consider putting a measure before voters to best decide the direction of our state. So the debate begins.
Brown’s apparent commitment to striking a balance and involving all stakeholders in a conversation about the budget has to be considered a positive sign. Let’s hope Californians engage in the debate ahead with vigor, because our future literally hinges on its outcome.
Full statement from Pulaski on the budget proposal below:
Today’s budget proposal underscores the seriousness of California’s ongoing economic crisis. While Gov. Brown’s proposal isn’t perfect, it at least strikes a much-needed balance between cuts and revenues. Our state simply can’t sustain a cuts-only budget if we’re to have any hope of emerging from the current economic morass.
While the proposed cuts are certain to inflict greater pain on those least able to endure it in this harsh economic environment, we’re hopeful that Gov. Brown’s balanced solution to the budget crisis signals a willingness to look at all options. It’s a good sign that he’s making an effort to engage the public so deeply and openly in this process.
We’re encouraged by Brown’s proposal to eliminate costly corporate tax giveaways that are bleeding the state of billions of dollars without producing any economic benefits. All solutions to generate revenue for our cash-starved state should be on the table. Brown’s budget also spares education funding deep cuts that would hurt our kids and further erode hope of economic recovery.
Today’s budget proposal is merely the opening salvo in what is sure to be an important public debate about the direction of our state. The California labor movement looks forward to contributing to that debate, forcefully advocating for protecting the vital services that our state’s working families depend upon.
