SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - The Latest on the California budget (all times local):
4:30 p.m.
The California Legislature has approved a $139 billion budget that uses California’s massive surplus to boost funding for homelessness, welfare, child care and universities.
The spending plan sent to Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown Thursday also socks billions into savings, filling the rainy day fund to the maximum allowed under the state constitution.
Democrats say the budget offers significant help to people living in poverty. It boosts monthly grants under the CalWorks welfare program gives cities money for shelters, housing vouchers and other emergency aid for the homeless.
Republicans praise the aggressive savings but say the budget includes too many long-term commitments the state can’t afford.
Brown negotiated with budget with Democratic legislative leaders. He has until June 30 to sign it.
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2:50 p.m.
The California Legislature is debating a $139 billion budget that spends more money on homelessness, welfare, child care and universities.
The spending plan considered Thursday boosts spending 9 percent for the fiscal year beginning July 1. It was negotiated by Gov. Jerry Brown and Democratic legislative leaders.
California is riding economic growth that has produced a massive surplus that even the most conservative estimates peg at nearly $9 billion.
Lawmakers and Brown are using that windfall to fill the rainy day fund and boost other reserves. Monthly grants in the CalWorks welfare program will rise. More parents will get access to subsidized child care.
The budget had enough support to clear the Senate and was under debate in the Assembly.
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