As Budget Deadline Looms, Brown Says He'll Oppose Extra Spending

As Legislative Democrats move forward with state budget proposals that rely on higher revenue estimates, California Governor Jerry Brown is again indicating he’ll oppose lawmakers’ extra spending.

Brown told the California State Association of Counties conference in Sacramento Wednesday that a “modest” recession would cost the state $40 billion.

"So that’s why we have our rainy day fund, which we’re building up; why I’m trying to keep the budget in some balance – not because I don’t think programs should be funded, but because I think programs should not be cut unnecessarily," says Brown.

The Assembly Budget Committee approved its spending plan Wednesday. The Senate Budget Committee approved its proposal last Friday.

Both blueprints rely on higher projected revenues to spend – and save – extra money.

The Legislature’s constitutional budget deadline is June 15. In recent years, lawmakers have passed an on-time budget.  If they don't, they forfeit their pay.