undocumented prisoners, state legislators and our congressional delegation stand united in working to ensure California does not continue to be shortchanged by unfair formulas that leave us getting only 79 cents back from every dollar we send to Washington.
“President-elect Obama also rightfully acknowledged the need to help struggling states avoid even more harmful budget cuts than we are already having to make. In exchange the President-elect has called on states to take responsible steps. If a bipartisan 2/3 solution can not be achieved in the appropriate time, I continue to believe those steps must include implementing the $18 billion in budget solutions legislative Democrats put forward to avoid our immediate cash crisis, solve almost half the budget deficit and create 367,000 new jobs.
“There will, of course, be tough decisions ahead, but I am hopeful we will be able to come to an agreement that is in the best interests of the people of our state. I am also hopeful as negotiations move forward that in the light of what is being offered at the federal level, California not take a penny-wise / pound-foolish approach where minor cuts in state programs result in a major loss of federal funds.
“Given the severity of this crisis and the indications that it may get even worse before it gets any better, I applaud President-elect Obama for his thoughtful leadership in sharing with America the bold policies he outlined today. As the nation’s economic engine – with 18.5 million workers producing more than $1.5 trillion annually – California’s recovery has to be an important consideration for the incoming administration. I look forward to continuing to work with the Obama Administration and our partners in Congress to help ensure the swiftest possible economic recovery for our state and our nation.” |
