Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D - La Canada Flintridge) released the following the statement on the 2021-2022 State Budget approved by the Legislature today:
“The 2021-2022 State Budget ensures a swift recovery from the economic effects of the pandemic and includes critical investments. It also provides a $25.2 billion in General Fund reserves - higher than any level in history – further cementing our strong fiscal foundation. The budget includes much needed tax relief for low and middle income Californians, renter assistance, funding for housing affordability initiatives, and continued support for small businesses owners struggling to survive. I am very pleased that the budget we voted on today includes a strong focus on public education, with the highest levels of funding in history. Throughout the year, we have worked hard to ensure that public education receives the financial support necessary to resume in person instruction this fall. I am proud that we are taking meaningful steps to help our youth achieve academic success. It is also critical that California is making increased investments to our mental health system. There is a growing mental health crisis among our youth which has been exacerbated by the pandemic. These investments are an important step forward in providing support to those living with mental health challenges. I’m proud of our responsible, transformational and historic budget and look forward to the Governor’s signature. |