Assemblyman Jim Nielsen (R-Gerber) made the following comments today in advance of Governor Jerry Brown's 2011 State of the State address later this evening. 

"With California facing a budget deficit of $25 billion, I am hopeful that Governor Brown will use tonight's address to focus on spending control and critically needed budget and regulatory reforms that will encourage business investment and job growth," stated Nielsen.  "A spending cap, fiscal reserve, and zero-based budgeting are first steps I hope the Governor embraces."

"California overtaxes its citizens and overspends its budget.  Our day of reckoning is finally here.  We cannot borrow our way out of this mess, and funding excessive spending is not an answer either.  This is an historic opportunity to change how government does business."

"While budget cuts are needed right now, the only way to truly end our continuing budget crisis is quite simple, and should be the singular focus of this Legislature.  We need jobs and we need them now.  Repealing onerous job-killing statutes and regulations are a must to get California back on its feet.  I am hopeful that Governor Brown and the Legislature will heed this call, and I stand ready to tackle this issue with them."