Budget is priority 1 when Legislature returns Aug. 20

Analysis from CSBA's Governmental Relations Department

When California lawmakers return from their August recess on Monday, they face a big challenge—passing a state budget. The final four weeks of the session are typically a whirlwind of activity, as lawmakers rush to get their bills to the governor’s desk. This year, however, the budget will take center stage—at least in the Senate—where it is being held up by Republicans. (The Assembly passed it July 20.)

Since the Senate adjourned on Aug. 1, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and senators from both parties have been solidifying their positions. Democrats have been decrying the impact the budget delay is having on those who rely on state funding, such as childcare centers, community colleges and nursing homes. The governor has been urging constituents in Republican strongholds to “turn up the heat” on their senators.

Meanwhile, those Senate Republicans have been flooding Internet blogs and the airwaves, defending their position and Sen. Jeff Denham’s refusal to cast the 27th vote that would have given Democrats the two-thirds majority needed to pass the budget.

Schools continue to remain somewhat unaffected by the stalemate; they continue to receive their general purpose funding. However, money for programs such as special education and adult education is being withheld, and the impact will increase if the budget impasse continues for much longer.