Capitol Roundup: Bills, Bills, Bills; State's Cash on Track

 

Brown signed 42 bills, including 13 that focus on veterans.  One measure ask voters next June to approve the shifting of $600 million in bond funds for veterans housing.  The bonding authority is currently reserved for another veteran housing program, but it’s going unused.  If voters approve, the money would be spent on apartments and transitional housing, which backers say would help reduce homelessness.

"I know some folks at this part of the state are a little skeptical about what we do up there in the state capitol,” Brown said at a signing ceremony in San Diego Thursday, with lawmakers at his back.  "But today, we’re doing something really good, and the people standing behind me helped make this happen.”

Brown also signed a measure that toughens school nutrition standards to conform with federal law.  It sets calorie limits and bans deep-fried foods, and it extends lunchtime rules to snacks and before- and after-school meals.

The governor's 11 vetoes include a measure that deals with the dismissal process for teachers accused of child or sexual abuse.  The bill was backed by teachers unions and opposed by education reform groups.  In his veto message, Brown called it an "imperfect solution" and asked lawmakers to try again.

Calif. Budget Revenues On Track Through September

California has made it through the first quarter of the new fiscal year just about on budget.

The state controller's office says revenues exceeded budget projections by about $90 million.  That's a small amount in the grand scheme of a $98 billion general fund.  A strong September helped offset a slow July and August.

But any effects from the federal government shutdown and debt ceiling battles aren't counted in the first quarter.  An economic slowdown could put California finances back in the red.