California Passes $86 Billion Budget Without New Taxes

Posted on Jun 28, 2011

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California Gov. Jerry Brown.

Californians made it easier for their lawmakers to pass a budget, but you might not be able to tell from all the drama. Perhaps you heard that Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a budget passed by his own party, Republicans managed to block voters from approving new taxes and the state controller stopped paying legislators.

Still, a new budget passed with plenty of time—two days left in the fiscal year. Unfortunately, the Statehouse was forced to make even deeper cuts to programs like education and law enforcement, and lawmakers may have exaggerated future revenues just a little.

Brown, a Democrat, is expected to pursue tax increases through California’s notorious proposition process.  —PZS

Contra Costa Times via San Jose Mercury News:

Without a deal to go the ballot for an extension on sales, income and car taxes, Brown and Democrats decided to rely on the projected revenues. But they also increased the pain for many who had already suffered through budget cuts.

Democrats added more cuts to higher education: the University of California and California State University had already taken $500 million each in cuts, and were each dealt another $150 million in cuts.

The courts and justice department are to take hits of $100 million more, as well, drawing howls of outrage from all corners.

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