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California Senate Budget Committee Vice Chair Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks) released the following statement reacting to the news of early budget actions negotiated by Governor Newsom, Senate President pro Tempore McGuire, and Speaker Rivas:
“The budget process has been degraded in the last several years with unilateral decision-making happening behind closed doors by one political party. The fact remains that the state is facing a major deficit that has continued to grow, and this process should be open, transparent, and deliberative.
“I am disappointed in this administration on behalf of the people of California. Not allowing public discussions or different viewpoints to weigh in is a disservice to the millions of Californians we represent and erosion of democracy.”
Senator Niello, a fierce advocate for transparency, has previously called for the reconvening of the budget conference committee process which enables more public discussion between legislative houses.