San Francisco, CA — A new Field Poll finds California voters say no to a November initiative that would change the state budget process and give more power to local governments. 40 percent of likely voters opposed Proposition 31 while 21 percent support it and 39 percent are undecided.
Proposition 31 would change several state budget procedures including; going to a two year budget cycle, rules on offsetting new expenditures, setting performance goals for state and local budgets, and allowing the governor to cut spending in an emergency when lawmakers fail to act. The measure would also let local governments propose new ways to comply with state requirements.
Proponents say the initiative would help California avoid the budget troubles of recent years and encourage local government participation in solutions. Opponents say the measure could hurt public programs and undermine state protections.
