Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez today issued the following statement in response to Governor Jerry Brown’s May Revision of the proposed 2015-2016 state budget:
“Today’s May Budget Revision was a big win for our children and the next generation of Californians. The $6 billion increase in K-14 funding will go directly into our classrooms to ease burdens on schools and help improve the quality of education our students are receiving. As a strong supporter of career technical training, I am thrilled that the Governor has dedicated an additional $150 million-for a total of $400 million-to fund these programs that are especially important to the Inland Empire.
Although today’s budget numbers further show great improvements in California’s economy, there are still many families who are struggling. The Earned Income Tax Credit proposed by the Governor this morning rewards hard working families who are struggling to make ends meet and will go a long way in reducing poverty and boosting our local economies.
Today’s budget also works towards securing our future by paying down our debt and bringing the balance of the Rainy Day Fund up to $3.5 billion. The inclusion of $2.2 billion for water supply and conservation are critical to help California respond to the critical, ongoing drought.
While the overall budget picture is positive, I know there is still more that needs to be done. I am pleased that the Governor has allocated more funding for our over-burdened court system, and while every little bit helps, the additional $15.5 million allocated in today’s budget is still not enough to ensure access to justice for all. I am also disappointed not to see additional funding for infrastructure projects that could go a long way in fixing our roads and highways.
I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Assembly Budget Committee to approve a comprehensive and balance budget by the June 15th constitutional deadline.”