California Governor Signs Budget Cuts

California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today signed budget cuts for the state that will help close the $3.3 billion gap in the state’s budget this year.

Although not all of the cuts the governor proposed were included, he did appear satisfied.  He also cautioned on more to come.

“I respect the fact that it is not exactly what I proposed,” Schwarzenegger told reporters as he signed the bills into law.

“There is much more to come.  This is only the beginning,” he said.

Schwarzenegger had originally proposed across the board reductions for state agencies. The agreed cuts, which are expected to take effect immediately, largely address spending in education and social services.

Questionable Cuts Proposed by California Governor

 

Governor Schwarzenegger declared a fiscal emergency in California yesterday in wake of the state’s $14 billion deficit.  His new state budget proposal, a $141 billion plan, would cut education, close many state parks, and release inmates. 

In my opinion, it is hard to support any bill that reduces spending on education.  Children should not be held responsible for the actions that led to this deficit.  In addition, the public safety of California citizens should not be jeopardized.  Even “low risk” prisoners can pose significant risks given the right situation.  The Governor also is proposing to remove active supervision of over 18,000 parolees increasing flight risks to neighboring states.

Although it is noble of Governor Schwarzenegger to propose a plan to bring the California budget back into the black, I think other routes would benefit the residents of the state more.  One suggestion……begin with reducing tax breaks.

California’s current state budget can be researched here.