CalWatchdog Morning Read – May 10

 

• Is the state headed for budget trouble?
• Caltrans unclear on spending needs
• Some water restrictions made permanent
• Bathrooms for all
• UC’s admissions process under fire

Good morning!

With Gov. Jerry Brown’s revised budget expected to be released sometime this week, it’s important to note that while the state’s finances have improved substantially during his most recent terms, many see a crisis ahead.

Multiple credit agencies, observers, lawmakers and even the popular governor have pointed to the fact that the state is too dependent on a small group of the wealthiest individuals to fund state activities — a problem because their income is largely tied to the volatility of the stock market, which, in an economic downturn, could dramatically reduce revenue.

Around 150,000 tax returns (according to the the Franchise Tax Board), provide 33 percent of the state’s total revenue. 

But while there’s consensus that something needs to happen, there’s little consensus as to what that something is.

CalWatchdog has more. 

In other news: 

• The budget may have some answers as to how much Caltrans “borehole mitigation” plan will cost. It is currently asking for around $6.6 million for just next fiscal year, as part of a five-year plan. The plan is to go around the state and “resolve” around 20,000 boreholes drilled improperly (while defying state and local laws) between 1990 and 2014. So far, Caltrans has refused to provide specifics on how much this plan will cost. CalWatchdog has more. 
• A bill requiring gender-neutral restrooms on all public and state property was approved by the Assembly on Monday, while another barred state employees from being required to “travel to states that are deemed to be discriminating based on gender identity or sexual orientation,” according to the Los Angeles Times.
• “Some of the temporary water-saving measures imposed on homeowners and water agencies — including how you wash your car at home and how you water your lawn — are now permanent under an executive order issued Monday by Gov. Jerry Brown,” The Orange County Register reports. 

Assembly:

• A subcommittee will take a look at the UC enrollment trends, following a scathing report suggesting the enrollment process favors out-of-state students. The Los Angeles Times has more. 

Senate:

• Full slate of hearings. 

Gov. Brown:

• No public events scheduled. 

Politics:

• Debate in the U.S. Senate race is tonight. 

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