SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Henry T. Perea (D-Fresno) made the following statement after the Assembly and Senate voted Friday to send a balanced budget to Governor Brown:

“As we continue to battle with a sluggish economy, there are no easy cuts left to make. This budget closes the $20 billion structural deficit California was facing 18 months ago and includes some major cuts to important programs. It spares our most vulnerable citizens from drastic cuts to Cal WORKS that would hurt families already struggling to keep their heads above water.

“With the many sacrifices of our veterans in mind, we also approved replacing $10.8 million to begin opening veterans homes in Fresno and Redding.  It’s my hope that Governor Brown will hear our veterans voices and keep the promise we made to them by approving these funds.”

“Now the legislature must focus on helping create the jobs that will get our economy moving again.”

Contact: Alisha Gallon 661-364-3655