Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) issued the following statement after Governor Gavin Newsom released his revised 2021-22 budget proposal:

“I support investments to help the state address threats such as drought, wildfires, and massive unfunded liabilities. It is also encouraging that the budget incorporated my request made earlier this year to expand broadband internet service to more Californians to bridge the ‘digital divide.’

“However, the budget falls woefully short in some areas. If Gann Limit ‘surplus’ funds are not going to be returned to all taxpayers as done by former Governor George Deukmejian or through a straight temporary sales tax rate reduction, then the money should be used for long-term projects allowed under state law. Let’s invest in building roads, bridges, water storage, and schools – all of which create jobs.

“For example, the Governor and the Legislature could fully fund the projects outlined in Senator Steve Glazer’s $15 billion school bond proposal. This would build schools and colleges while avoiding more than $5 billion of interest charges and an expensive bond campaign. Wall Street and political consultants may not like it, but it would be good for California’s kids and for the state’s fiscal stability.”

Click here to read the letter to the Governor outlining Senator Bates’ budget priorities.