Still no budget as partisan politicking heats up

As expected, the June 30 deadline for the California Legislature to pass a budget came and went.  Nearly a month with still no resolve, the budget impasse is starting to have an effect on state employees (who haven't been paid in weeks) and has put transporation projects in Southern California on hold until a spending plan can be agreed on.

The Assembly passed the budget on July 20 and promptly left town for their summer recess.  Many Senate legislators were furious that the Assembly did this, mainly because it put all the responsibility on the Senate to pass a budget and get it to Governor Schwarzenegger to sign. 

The most recent development is that the Senate Republicans have proposed an additional $842 million in cuts, which has come under heavy criticsm from Senate Democrats.  Senator Sheila Kuehl (D - Santa Monica) said, "it's egregious when 15 white men with money hold up the budget for 37 million people."  Republicans claim the cuts (primarily in the State's welfare-to-work program) are necessary to put forth a more fiscal responsible budget.  The Senate was scheduled for a floor session again today, as the pressure to pass a budget continues to build by the minute.  Remember, it takes a 2/3 majority to pass the budget out of either the Assembly or Senate.

We'd love to hear your thoughts.  Click on the comments button below this story and tell us what you think!