California's $73 Billion Budget Deficit Sparks Controversy Over 'Gimmicky' $17.3 Billion Reduction Plan

Critics slam the plan for failing to address long-term spending issues and relying on controversial financial maneuvers.

California faces a $73 billion budget deficit, with a plan to reduce it by $17.3 billion through spending cuts, delays, and deferrals, criticized as 'gimmicky.'
Republican lawmakers blame Governor Newsom for financial mismanagement and unsustainable budget growth, citing a lack of structural reforms.
The deficit reduction plan includes controversial measures like borrowing from special funds and deferring state worker salaries, without addressing long-term spending issues.
Critics argue the plan neglects sensible solutions like delaying the minimum wage hike for healthcare workers, which could save $4 billion.
California's economic challenges are compounded by high unemployment, a population exodus, and the costs of providing healthcare to illegal immigrants.