Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento

California remains one of the largest economies in the world. But that headline obscures a more concerning reality: the state’s economy is no longer delivering broad-based growth, upward mobility, or stability for its residents.#caleg #cagov #cabudgetSheehy Strategy Group

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the modern workplace, policymakers are right to consider guardrails that promote transparency and fairness. However, AB 1898 (Schultz), which seeks to regulate workplace artificial intelligence tools, ultimately misses the mark. While well-intentioned, the bill as currently drafted would impose sweeping and impractical requirements that risk undermining innovation, creating operational gridlock, and exposing employers to significant legal and security risks.https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2026/3/19/ab-1898-schultz-well-intentioned-but-unworkable-workplace-ai-proposal

California has long stood as a symbol of , and upward mobility. Yet today, a number of troubling indicators show that the Golden State faces serious structural challenges that demand urgent attention.https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2026/3/17/california-at-a-crossroads-facing-hard-truths-to-restore-the-golden-state

California’s State Appropriations Limit (SAL)—commonly known as the Gann limit—is a constitutional cap on how much tax revenue the state government can spend each year. The rule was created by voters through California Proposition 4 (1979), largely championed by anti-tax activist Paul Gann. It was later significantly modified by California Proposition 111 (1990). Together, these measures established a formula that restricts spending growth based on factors such as population and inflation.More: California’s State Appropriations Limit (Gann Limit) — Sheehy Strategy Group

Newsom’s budget assumes continued stability at the very top of California’s tax base. Reality check: proposals like the SEIU wealth tax are already prompting income, investments, and jobs to leave the state. Learn more:https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2026/1/19/tom-sheehy-breaks-down-newsom-budget-with-assemblyman-josh-hoover#cabudget #cagov #caleg

Since I recorded a Point of Order podcast with Assemblyman Josh Hoover in early January, recent state General Fund revenue updates from the Legislative Analyst’s Office have understandably reignited that discussion. The non-partisan LAO now estimates that near-term General Fund revenues could be roughly $5 billion higher across the current budget window than projected in the governor’s January budget. And the January budget the Governor submitted to the Legislature had what most fiscal analysts and experts, including me, considered a very rosy revenue forecast. So these current revenue updates showing stronger revenues that the Governir projected just one month ago is meaningful news — and it is also a reminder of how quickly California’s revenue picture can change.www.sheehystrategygroup.com

Despite Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature declaring, during this year’s May Revision, that the state was suffering from a “Trump Slump” — supposedly causing a significant revenue loss — President Donald Trumphad nothing to do with what state officials themselves have described as a structural deficit, meaning current-lawspending exceeds current-law revenues.

Sheehy Strategy Group Principal Tom Sheehy recently testified before the Assembly Education Committee, warning that proposed election changes would impose costly state mandates and undermine local control.Learn more: 👉 https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2025/8/19/sheehy-testifies-on-local-control-before-assembly-education-committee#SB249 #caleg #cabudget #cagov

SB 249 is an example of the state blatantly stepping all over local control of county elections. California’s local governments should be in charge of how they elect their own county supervisors, city council members, and education board members. The state has no business coming in and trying to micromanage the election rules that govern these local offices. Furthermore, when the state does that, it creates state mandated local programs, which ultimately must be reimbursed by the state general fund. Local control matters, let’s keep the state out of local government election processes and stop the micromanagement.#caleg #cagov #sb249

Is hiring a lobbyist in Sacramento worth it? Tom Sheehy of the Sheehy Strategy Group breaks down what makes lobbying in California so complex — and why experienced advocacy can be the key to advancing your public policy goals. Whether you're pushing legislation, protecting your interests, or navigating political challenges, this video outlines how a seasoned lobbyist can save you time, money and costly mistakes.Learn about:– When to hire a lobbyist (and when not to)– How legislative and administrative strategies intersect– What qualities matter most in a political advocate– Real-world insights from California’s CapitolReady to explore how advocacy can support your mission?Contact Sheehy Strategy Group: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/contact#caleg #cagov #cabudget

In this podcast, Tom Sheehy testifies before the Senate Appropriations committee hearing on SB 249 by Senator Tom Umberg.  Sheehy talks about the importance of local control and how cities and counties should have the ability to determine how local boards are elected, should not be  micromanaged by the state. He also points out that this bad precedent of the state usurping local control will end up costing the state general fund millions of dollars that it simply cannot afford.

Sheehy Strategy Group is excited to introduce a new explainer video breaking down the role of California’s Governor. The Governor of California is the state’s chief executive officer, responsible for overseeing the executive branch and implementing state laws. Watch our video to learn more about this influential position and its impact on state governance.#cagov #cabudget

Sheehy Strategy Group is excited to introduce a new explainer video breaking down the role of California’s Lieutenant Governor. As the state’s second-highest executive, the Lt. Governor serves as acting governor when needed, helps shape economic development and higher education policies, and has historically been a stepping stone to the governorship. Watch our video to learn more about this influential position and its impact on state governance.#cagov

Check out our latest explainer video, in which we delve into the critical role of the California State Board of Equalization. The BOE's primary responsibilities include ensuring uniform and fair property tax assessments across California's 58 counties. The BOE ensures counties adhere to property tax laws and regulations, guaranteeing equitable treatment for taxpayers statewide.For more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape, visit https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com.

In our latest explainer video, Sheehy Strategy Group highlights the role of California’s Attorney General, the state’s chief legal officer. The Attorney General, currently Rob Bonta, oversees the Department of Justice, enforcing state laws and defending California in legal matters. Beyond law enforcement, the office tackles issues like consumer protection and environmental law, while also advancing public policy initiatives to promote safety and uphold civil rights across the state. For more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape, visit https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com. #cabudget #cagov #caleg

The California Legislature wrapped up its session on August 31, but significant changes are on the horizon for the upcoming term. Following the November 5 elections, up to 34 new members could join the Legislature in December. Eight Assembly members, including Reggie Jones-Sawyer, Chris Holden, and Marie Waldron, are being termed out. Additionally, other notable departures include Megan Dahle, who is running for the California Senate to replace her husband, and Jim Wood, who is retiring before being forced out by term limits. Kevin McCarty, representing Sacramento, is also making a bid for mayor. Several Assembly members are pursuing congressional seats or other offices, such as Luz Rivas and Laura Friedman, who are giving up their Assembly terms. Sabrina Cervantes and Akilah Weber are both stepping down to run for State Senate in two open races. Miguel Santiago, who recently lost a city council race, is also stepping down. In the Senate, 10 members, including Toni Atkins, Steve Bradford, and Bill Dodd, will not return. Additionally, Senator Dave Min is leaving early to run for Congress, and Senator Janet Nguyen is considering a return to Orange County politics as a supervisor. With at least 24 Assembly members and 10 senators departing, California will see a record 34 members not returning for the 2024-2026 session. This transition represents a pivotal moment in California politics, signaling significant changes ahead. Stay tuned for more updates as developments unfold. __ The Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies.Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/ #caleg #cagov #cabudget

Check out our latest episode breaking down the crucial role of California's Superintendent of Public Instruction. Learn about the responsibilities of this nonpartisan office, from overseeing the California Department of Education to guiding policy implementation across the state's public schools. Watch now to understand how this key position shapes the educational landscape of California. For more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape, visit https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com. #cabudget #cagov #caleg

As California braces for future earthquakes, it’s crucial to focus on more than just structural integrity. In this latest episode, Tom Sheehy explains how Assemblymember Lisa Calderon’s ACR 151 promotes nonstructural seismic resilience—addressing essential components like piping, wiring, and HVAC systems that keep buildings functional post-quake. Learn more about the cost-effective technologies that could help minimize downtime and aid recovery after a disaster: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/seismic-resiliency-understanding-acr-151 #California #earthquakes #caleg #cagov #cabudget

Check out our latest episode, in which we delve into the critical role of the California Secretary of State. As the state’s chief elections officer, this office ensures the integrity of elections and manages key responsibilities like corporate filings and the state archives. Learn more about the office’s pivotal role, especially with the upcoming 2024 presidential election on the horizon. For more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape, visit https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com. #cabudget #cagov #caleg #election2024 #votecalifornia

Join Tom Sheehy as he dissects SB 907, Senator Josh Newman's legislation targeting the Orange County Board of Education. Sheehy scrutinizes the bill's proposal to expand the board and alter election timing, noting concerns about partisanship and democratic principles. Sheehy questions SB 907's interference in local control and asks why this policy isn't applied statewide if it is truly beneficial. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/unpacking-sb-907-is-senator-newmans-legislation-partisan-political-maneuvering #caleg #cagov #cabudget #SB907 #EducationPolicy #LocalControl

Watch our latest explainer video to discover the multifaceted role of the California Insurance Commissioner — a position currently held by Ricardo Lara. From overseeing insurance companies to addressing consumer concerns, the Commissioner is elected to ensure fair and transparent insurance markets, protect Californians from financial harm, and advocate for accessible healthcare options. Watch now to understand the vital role this office plays in safeguarding consumer rights and industry standards in California. For more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape, visit sheehystrategygroup.com. #cagov⁠ ⁠#caleg⁠ ⁠#cabudget⁠ ⁠#CADeptofInsurance⁠

Discover the pivotal role of the California State Controller's Office in managing the state's finances and fostering economic stability. Led by Democrat Malia M. Cohen, the Controller oversees a myriad of financial functions crucial to the world's fifth-largest economy. Learn about the Controller's responsibilities, including accounting, internal auditing, unclaimed property administration, and supervision of local government finances. Explore how the Controller's actions shape California's fiscal landscape and ensure transparency and accountability in economic governance. For more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape, visit sheehystrategygroup.com. #cabudget #cagov #caleg

Discover the pivotal role of the California State Treasurer's office in our latest explainer video. Established in 1849, the Treasurer oversees the financial helm of the world's fifth-largest global economy. Led by Ms. Fiona Ma, the Treasurer ensures fiscal responsibility and economic prosperity, managing trillions in payments annually and overseeing an investment portfolio exceeding $124 billion. Dive deep into the Treasurer's multifaceted responsibilities and learn how they shape California's economic landscape. For more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape, visit sheehystrategygroup.com #cabudget #cagov #caleg

Dive into our latest explainer video, as the Sheehy Strategy Group sheds light on the pivotal role played by the California Department of General Services (DGS) Procurement Division. Managing the state's hefty $12 billion annual expenditure on goods and services, this division streamlines procurement, promotes small and veteran-owned businesses, and ensures adherence to legal and ethical standards. Learn how the DGS Procurement Division simplifies state contracting, offering insights into leveraged procurement vehicles like CMAS. For those seeking to navigate complex government procurements or expand their state business ventures, contact the Sheehy Strategy Group at sheehystrategygroup.com/procurement.

California's state government revenues pose an unprecedented challenge. With personal income tax revenue shrouded in uncertainty due to IRS deadline extensions, budget writers lack crucial data. October revenue totals were $24 billion below predictions, but the full picture remains elusive. As the state heads into budget season, complexities abound, leaving legislators facing a daunting task in crafting a budget come January. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2023/11/13/fall-2023-state-budget-update #cabudget #cagov #caleg

During a recent panel discussion with SacTown Talks, Tom Sheehy, Principal and Founder of Sheehy Strategy Group, said that while the Legislature claims to be fighting for small businesses, they are actually doing more harm than good. Case in point: In September 2020, the California Legislature passed SB 1383, which expands the California Family Rights Act. Before SB 1383, businesses with 50 or more employees had to offer 12 weeks of protected, not necessarily compensated, leave. Now, the threshold has been lowered to five or more employees. California is the first state in the nation to lower this threshold. Need help dealing with California lawmakers or regulators? Contact us for a free consultation or for information on proposals to represent you. Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/ #CAleg #CAgov #CApolitics

California’s Legislature doesn’t understand the costs associated with extended leave bills. When small businesses are required to offer 12 weeks of protected leave, they often have to hold positions open, eliminate positions, or raise prices to cover their costs. Ashley Hoffman, Policy Advocate for the California Chamber of Commerce, and fellow SacTown Talks panelist, says that some small businesses used to offer subsidized child care as a benefit for their employees. Due to the new extended leave bills, they had to drop that program. Their employees would have rather had subsidized child care than 12 weeks of protected leave. Tom Sheehy, Principal and Founder of Sheehy Strategy Group, says that at some point, businesses have to balance the books however they can. Otherwise, they’ll have to close their doors. California’s Legislature needs to wake up. The bills meant to help employees might ultimately be harming them. What good are 12 weeks of leave if you get laid off? Need help dealing with California lawmakers or regulators? Contact us for a free consultation or for information on proposals to represent you. Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/#CAleg #CAgov #CApolitics

In our ongoing explainer video series, the Sheehy Strategy Group unravels the significant roles played by California's key governmental agencies. Our latest video delves into the Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO), an essential nonpartisan agency that provides objective fiscal and policy analysis to the State Legislature. Operating independently and free from political affiliations, the LAO evaluates budget proposals, scrutinizes fiscal matters, and assesses the impacts of legislation. Their impartial and thorough reports are invaluable for informed decision-making in the legislative process, contributing to transparent and responsible governance in California. Stay tuned for more insights into the Golden State's governance and policy landscape. #caleg #cabudget #cagov

In our new explainer series, the Sheehy Strategy Group delves into the essential functions of California's governmental bodies. This episode takes a closer look at the California Department of Finance (DOF), where SSG Principal and Founder Tom Sheehy served as Chief Deputy Director. This state agency is pivotal in shaping California's fiscal landscape, offering insights into budget development, revenue forecasting, and financial planning. Join us as we unravel the critical role this department plays in maintaining the Golden State's financial well-being and ensuring responsible fiscal management. Stay tuned for more informative episodes shedding light on California's governance and policies. Learn more at sheehystrategygroup.com #cabudget #caleg #cagov

When Tom Sheehy, Principal and Founder of Sheehy Strategy Group, thinks about single-payer healthcare, the first thing that comes to mind is the “DMV.” Imagine the same government that’s in charge of the DMV being in control of your healthcare. If the government takes control, businesses that provide private healthcare would be forced to shut down. Many people would lose their jobs and health providers. The government already has too much paperwork to handle as it is. What would happen if they had to process everyone’s doctor appointments and hospital visits? Sheehy says this scenario is “unimaginable.” Need help dealing with California lawmakers or regulators? Contact us for a free consultation or for information on proposals to represent you. Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/ #CAleg #CAgov #CApolitics

Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms have permanently changed how political advocacy gets done in California and around the nation. If you are going to influence the California Legislature, you better be active on Twitter and have your issues properly framed for that platform. Today, social media accelerates reactions by elected officials and regulators to critical cultural, social, and legal developments in California and across the United States. Issues only go “viral” on social media platforms. There is no better way to quickly frame public opinion or push back on legislative issues you care about than utilizing social media platforms and digital advocacy tools. These tools are also being used to draw more attention to public agencies and their regulatory overreaches making it easier to change bad regs or stop them altogether. The Sheehy Strategy Group understands how to leverage digital tools to persuade and move elected officials to your point of view. We can help you create content, manage issues and push back on hostile initiatives utilizing both “traditional” face-to-face lobbying as well as a full suite of digital advocacy tools to put you in the issue driver’s seat. SSG is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/digital-advocacy #CAleg #CAgov #CApolitics

In a new video released by the Sheehy Strategy Group, Tom Sheehy provides a sobering overview of key business legislation that emerged from the recently concluded first year of California's two-year legislative session. As Sheehy points out, the session witnessed the introduction of a staggering 3,030 bills, and many of these proposals, if enacted, would impose financial burdens on taxpayers and curtail individual freedoms. Governor Newsom holds the fate of these bills in his hands, with a deadline of October 14 to sign, veto, or allow them to become law without his signature. The decisions made in this regard will have a substantial impact on California's legislative landscape and the state's residents. Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies. Learn more at sheehystrategygroup.com. #caleg #cagov #cabudget

The Sheehy Strategy Group is a leading government relations, lobbying, and public strategy firm based in Sacramento, California. Led by Tom Sheehy, a highly experienced and influential lobbyist, the firm excels in achieving effective public policy and regulatory outcomes. Leveraging the power of social media, they frame public opinion and influence legislative issues. With unmatched expertise in government procurement, they secure the best opportunities for their clients. Serving a diverse array of satisfied clients, the Sheehy Strategy Group empowers success in California's political landscape. Contact them today to unlock your potential in the ever-changing world of state politics and policy. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com #cabudget #caleg #cagov

For the Sheehy Strategy Group, navigating the complex state and local government procurement process and requirements is second nature. We help structure our client’s procurement business using California's Small Business (SB) and Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise (DVBE) designations where appropriate giving our clients the state’s preferred status and access to more government contract opportunities. We have unparalleled expertise in all aspects of procurement from finding the right contract vehicle, developing proposals, winning awards, and protesting bad bid outcomes. Our decades of experience working in and with various state agencies like the Department of General Services (DGS), Government Operations Agency, Department of Technology and others gives our clients relationships and business opportunities that simply cannot be found elsewhere. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/procurement

Tom Sheehy testifies before a U.S. Commission on Civil Rights advisory panel regarding the civil rights implications of California’s #AB5 legislation. Other panelists included AB 5 author Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu, and Assemblyman Kevin Kiley. The Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies. Learn more: www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2022/6/29/sheehy-discusses-ab-5-fixes-with-us-commission-on-civil-rights-advisory-panel #CAleg #CAgov #CAbudget

Tom Sheehy, principal and founder of Sheehy Strategy Group, in testimony before the California Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights warned against the dangers of overzealous regulatory enforcement agencies like the Employment Development Department (EDD). EDD is known in some cases to be extremely aggressive and overbearing in how it interprets the law especially as it relates to employee classifications and independent contractors. The “ABC” independent contractor test created by the California Supreme Court in the Dynamex decision and codified into the labor code by AB 5 in 2019 is a minefield for employers that could result in EDD fines, assessments, and litigation. “If administrative enforcement agencies, such as EDD, are over the top in enforcing employee classification regulations, then what we thought we had achieved by way of a safe harbor in the labor code working with the author of AB 5 and the Legislature will disappear like a puff of smoke,” Sheehy said. “The resulting impact to regulated businesses may be frivolous lawsuits and audit findings costing them tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees and lost revenues.” Some job classifications were exempted from the “ABC” test in the AB 5 legislation. However, those exempted classifications are still subject to the Borello test, which was the employee classification test used for decades prior to the Dynamex decision. Although the Borello test is easier to meet for most job classifications than the “ABC” test is, it is not a walk in the park either. EDD’s enforcement in this area is known to be overly aggressive. California employers and especially small- and medium-sized businesses cannot afford frivolous audit findings and unnecessary litigation imposed by a rogue EDD. Employers and job creators need certainty that their employee classification systems are lawful and will be treated as such when they are audited by administrative agencies. The rules of the employee classification system must be enforced fairly and consistently so that California citizens can get the goods and services that they need to live their lives. Sheehy Strategy Group is a full-service government relations, lobbying and public strategy firm with unparalleled experience and statewide reach and depth that has helped a diverse array of clientele navigate California's political landscape before the State Senate, Assembly, Governor and state agencies. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2022/8/18/overzealous-tax-agencies-remain-a-threat-to-california-businesses

By Tom Sheehy Ever since California became a state 173 years ago in 1850, every time there was a census taken the population of this great state grew larger. Indeed, for most of the 20th and 21st centuries, California led all states in the country in population growth. The state’s economy has grown to $3.6 trillion, placing it in the top five largest in the world. However, California’s population growth trend has ended. The state’s population has been decreasing for several years, and the state Department of Finance recently projected that it would remain unchanged at 38 – 40 million residents until 2060 — a huge change from earlier predictions that it would top 50 million by then. In fact, in 2021 and 2022 combined, a record 800,000 people left California for other states including Nevada, Arizona, Idaho, Utah, Texas Florida and Tennessee. After the 2020 census, California lost a congressional seat for the first time in its history! Following the stagnant/declining population, the state’s labor force is also stagnant, according to the state budget’s projections, which explains why employers are having such great difficulty filling positions. A chronic lack of workers discourages employers from expanding operations with a negative effect on the overall economy. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2023/8/17/after-decades-of-historic-growth-california-faces-chronic-stagnation #caexit #caexodus #cabudget #caleg #cagov

By Tom Sheehy AB 764—legislation recently introduced by Los Angeles Assemblyman Isaac Bryan with the aim of enhancing transparency and accountability—has reignited the discourse surrounding California's redistricting procedures for local government entities. Former Assemblyman Bonta, who now serves as the Attorney General, originally introduced the Fair Maps Act in 2019. The Fair Maps Act is a significant piece of legislation aimed at establishing a more transparent procedure for drawing political boundaries at the local level, which was widely regarded as a positive step toward good governance in redistricting. This year, Assemblyman Bryan, who is now part of the new Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas’ leadership team, introduced AB 764 in furtherance of the Fair Maps Act. You might even call it the Fair Maps Act #2. However, one aspect of this legislation has sparked controversy. It introduces a new private right of action as an enforcement mechanism in the event that local government redistricting lines procedures aren't followed as outlined in law. So, what does that mean? A private right of action means that any individual or any organization, or essentially any stakeholder that doesn't like the way the lines are being drawn, can file a lawsuit. Such legal battles can be time-consuming and costly. Learn more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2023/7/26/a-solution-in-search-of-a-problem-understanding-the-impact-of-ab-764-on-california-local-government-redistricting #caleg #cabudget #cagov

By Tom Sheehy California is now starting to approach about a $40 billion budget deficit. Of course, it's unfortunate but true that revenue forecasters are usually behind the curve when we're going into a recession, which means that a $40 billion budget deficit may be the best-case scenario. The number could grow considerably more, perhaps as high as $50 billion if we do go into a recession. Read more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2023/5/31/california-budget-deficit-approaches-40-billion #cabudget #cagov #caleg

By Tom Sheehy On Friday, May 12, 2023, Governor Newsom released his revision to the state budget he first unveiled in January. When Governor Newsom provided his budget to the Legislature in January, it was intended to solve a $21.5 billion budget deficit. The deficit was a shock following last year when the Governor was touting a budget surplus of almost $100 billion. The reality is that the surplus never really did show up. The state ramped spending up higher, the revenue didn't come in, and this resulted in a huge budget deficit. What has changed since January is that the revenue has declined even further. In the May revision, Governor Newsom told us today that the budget deficit is now at least $31 billion. There are a number of budget analysts and revenue forecasters, in Sacramento and in the state, who watch the state's budget, and these experts believe that this number may actually grow considerably higher.  Read more: https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2023/5/12/governor-newsom-releases-state-budget-revision #cabudget #cagov #caleg