Author: Senator Jim Nielsen

A Blank Check for Realignment

More Californians have become victims living in fear thanks to the majority party’s irresponsible budgeting. Last year, Governor Brown and legislative Democrats passed a “realignment”

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September 11, 2001, Lest We Forget

It is said “Time heals all.” I beg to differ. The vast wounds inflicted on America and Americans just ten years ago will never completely heal. Usually, celebrations or anniversaries are happy times. Not this one! Yet, I find it important and even pertinent to who we are and who we want to become as a nation, to remember the day of September 11th, 2001.

This was a somber day in American history when more than 3,000 Americans lost their lives in the most egregious act of terrorism to ever hit the shores of our great nation. As we approach the 10th anniversary of that dark day, California remembers those who have fallen and the heroic efforts to keep this country safe from that terrorist act and from further attacks.

Death, terror, desperation, loss of those dear to us, loss of sense of security and peace of mind—none of these are pleasant memories of that day that has changed America forever. Yet, we have used and can still use these painful experiences to make us stronger and more committed to maintaining a strong nation. We have a history of building on hardships from the inception of our nation. Out of hard times such as 9/11 America became a beacon unto the world.

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Governor’s May Revise Must Start Serious Negotiations to Balance the Budget

Governor Schwarzenegger released his revised May budget proposal for the 2010-11 budget year on Friday.  It puts forward some very difficult cuts that are sadly necessary to bring spending in line with revenue and balance the budget.

I believe the May Revise should be seen as the starting point for serious budget discussions in the coming weeks.  With a $20 billion budget deficit, it’s clear that we must achieve the same level of budget savings that the Governor has proposed, even if we have different ideas.  It is my hope that Democrats will start working with Republicans today to craft the bipartisan balanced budget Californians are seeking by June 15th.

Speaker Pérez is right to call for more openness and transparency in the annual budget process.  We should not be relying on the “Big 5” to negotiate state budgets in the middle of the night. 

By the same token, it’s time to get serious about what we’re actually doing in legislative budget committee hearings.  In order to pass an on-time, responsible budget, it is essential that the majority party commits themselves to honest and open budget discussions with Republicans.

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