Senate Budget Vice Chair, Senator Roger Niello (R-Fair Oaks) and Senate Minority Leader Brian W. Jones (R-San Diego) react to the announcement of Governor Newsom’s 2023-24 proposed budget today.
“California’s assumption of unending higher revenue, combined with overspending on misguided priorities, led the state down the path to the deficit we have today. And this is in contrast to other states that are considering tax rebates at this same time,” said Senator Niello.
“Republicans fought to fill the Rainy Day Fund, and we applaud today’s commitment to not tap into it. Recent on-going spending by the governor must be re-evaluated. The governor continues to celebrate how much he spends, but California has yet to see the results.
“California is not on a sustainable path. The state must take pause and address the real needs of Californians such as homelessness, public safety, wildfires, water storage, and education. Republicans look forward to working with our colleagues on the other side of the aisle towards a more live-able California.”
Senate Minority Leader Jones said, “The California Senate Republican Caucus is pleased that Governor Newsom listened to our calls and is not planning on tapping into reserves. We are disappointed, but not surprised, by the governor breaking his promise to pay down our unemployment insurance debt—instead he leaves small businesses to bear the brunt of the state’s failures with a tax increase.
"Our caucus stands ready with practical solutions to the many problems plaguing Californians. We are eager to work with our colleagues across the aisle on fixing California and spending smarter instead of spending more.”
And earlier this morning, California Senate Minority Caucus Chair, Senator Janet Nguyen (R-Huntington Beach) released the following video statement prior to Governor Newsom’s budget proposal announcement:
“Drive down the street,” said Senator Nguyen. “Turn on the news. Go to the gas pump. There are harsh realities facing Californians up and down this state. Taxpayers cannot afford more empty promises and failures. We want results.”