"The budget proposed today is what a cuts only budget looks like and the proponents of a cuts only approach need to own it," Speaker Núñez said. "This budget isn't going for an up or down vote today. Clearly if passed as written, it would cause a lot of permanent harm."
Specifically, the Governor's proposal:
ü Drastically cut funds for public schools and universities, healthcare, services for the poor, and law enforcement;
ü Proposes across the board permanent cuts to services;
ü Targets cuts on children, the poor, the elderly, and the middle class;
ü Results in the closure of 48 state parks and beaches.
ü Proposes drastic cuts to special education, class size reduction, and career technical education;
ü Requires giving back hundreds of millions of dollars to the federal government that we can't match, particularly for healthcare; and
ü Results in tens of thousands of inmates being released early from prison.
Even with the Governor's permanent cuts, the Administration still estimates that our out-year operating deficit will be close to $3 billion.
"It's time for creative thinking and courageous action," Speaker Núñez said. "This budget isn't particularly creative or courageous. But if we have the will, and we stand up for California values then the ultimate budget solutions we come up with can be."
