State Senate Republicans are filled with resolve. They have drawn a line in the sand that is reasonable, and modest. Given the significant increases in state revenue the past few years, there is no reason for California to adopt a 2007-08 budget that spends more than projected revenues. Today’s Commentary is guest-authored by FR friend and State Senator Bob Dutton…
Controlling Government Growth
By Sen. Bob Dutton
With the budget now 27 days late the mudslinging in the halls of the Capitol is in full swing.
My Republican colleagues and I have stood firm under the leadership of Dick Ackerman convinced that we must do all we can to get our state spending under control. We’ve been accused of stealing wheel chairs from the handicapped and earlier this week the Senate Pro Tem used the term “fiscal terrorism” when describing the alternative budget proposed by Republicans that limits the growth of government.
I’ve always believed that name calling will not solve problems, so I choose not to join those who have decided to use the media to sling mud. Instead, I believe in presenting the facts and letting the truth speak for itself.
Revenues to the state’s General Fund are expected to top $101.2 billion for the coming 2007-08 fiscal year- an increase of $25 billion over the last four budget cycles.
You would think that kind of revenue increase would make it easy for this legislature to balance the budget. However, you would be wrong! Spending is projected at $104.3 billion.
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