If Left Alone, Deficits Only Get Bigger

Residents of this state are facing tough economic times and it could get worse.

House and Senate Republicans on Wednesday said it’s time lawmakers did their part to erase a $300 million budget deficit that’s been confirmed by independent analysts. Republican House Leader Larry Cafero and Senate Republican Leader John McKinney held a news conference where they described the problem.

Both leaders said it’s time for a bipartisan effort to tackle the mounting deficit.

Cafero provided examples of projects around the Capitol where money could have been saved, including replacing expensive marble tile in the Legislative Office Building even though there is no safety issue and installing brand new Liquid Crystal Display screens in hearing rooms.

Cafero talked about the importance of prioritizing projects.

Both McKinney and Cafero said the legislature can’t afford to put off dealing with the deficit as some Democrats have suggested.