Just say no to more budget delays

Written by: Shonda Hutton


The California Legislature missed the mark again! June 15 has come and gone and still there is not a budget in sight some three months later.


Granted, deriving an accurate economic forecast cannot be an easy task, especially when the ever-changing needs surpass the amount of the state's limited financial resources; however, we cannot afford to make excuses, as the ramifications that come with a late budget can have a devastating effect on Californians.

A late budget not only puts unnecessary strain on state workers and contractors, but has a snowball effect on all public services rendered - from health care and education to Caltrans projects.
Doors are closing for critical programs, child-care and other service providers are laying off staff - and it's our families, seniors and people with disabilities who are hurting the most.

The legislative body must be held accountable for its blatant disregard for California's Constitution.
On Nov. 2, the people of the Golden State will have a chance to exercise their collective voice to end budget delays. Proposition 25 will amend the two-thirds vote requirement to a simple majority. The ballot measure also stipulates that for every day the budget is not passed legislators voluntarily opt out of receiving a day's pay.

Californians must unite to ensure that legislators pass a budget that we all can live with - a responsible budget.

It's time to make an investment in California, one where families thrive, businesses grow and our national education rank soars back to the top. Wasteful money management costs the state and forces destructive cuts to vital health and human service programs.


Voters, the power is in our hands and we must take action to prevent the prolonging of future budgets. Be a voice in public policy; visit and register to Take Action California, searchable at www.takeactionca.org to reserve your seat at the decision-making table.