Assemblymember Phil Ting (D-San Francisco), Chair of the Assembly Budget Committee, released the statement below regarding Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2022-23 budget proposal:
“We’re a stronger state when we are all doing better. Clearly, with Omicron cases surging, we should consider taking some early budget actions to respond, including more COVID sick time. In the long term, we must continue making sure California’s strong economic recovery touches every resident. We do that by following through on the bold investments we made in last year’s budget, which are working to lift up Californians still struggling from the pandemic. I’m happy to see a number of the Governor’s priorities is aligned in the Assembly Budget Blueprint, Delivering Prosperity & Strengthening the Future, unveiled last month, including:
- New Initiatives From 2021 Budget Are Implemented: Universal Transitional Kindergarten; climate resiliency to address wildfire and drought; expanded broadband access; youth behavioral health initiative for mental health needs
- Critical Services: Continued investments in housing and homelessness; easier application process for safety net programs; improved EDD efficiency; more resources for violence and suicide prevention
- Infrastructure: School facilities, transportation/public transit, courthouse modernization
- Preparing For the Future: More robust public health infrastructure; increased workforce training/readiness for high demand jobs; record reserves for possible economic downturn
I am equally excited about the Governor’s continued support in expanding healthcare coverage for all Californians and the opportunities to invest more in California’s oil-free future to fight climate change - both of which I have pushed for years.
I’m ready to get to work, making progress on efforts to help the state emerge from the pandemic stronger. We must also prepare for more uncertainty and keep reserves robust. The public will have opportunities to weigh in, as the Assembly and Senate shape the Governor’s plan into a final state budget before the June 15th deadline. Together, we will ensure people can continue to rely on their government to get them through a crisis and lead the way to a better future. ”
To see the Assembly Budget Blueprint, please click here.