SACRAMENTO – Board of Equalization Member Ted Gaines today responded to Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2021 State of the State Address, which he delivered last night to a joint session of the Legislature and the people of California via livestream.
“Although COVID-19 has been devastating for so many Californians, I agree with Governor Newsom that there is hope in better days ahead. California’s future can be bright and full of promise if the government provides the foundation for its prosperity and is not a barrier to its success.
“The pandemic lockdown sent millions of children home to learn remotely, and here we are one year later with most schools still closed. This is unacceptable. The science is clear that reopening schools is safe, and our children’s mental health depends on getting them back into classrooms now.
“The pandemic left millions of people out of work and forced thousands of businesses to permanently close. In his speech, the Governor stated that ‘there is literally no better place to do business.’ I wish that were true. As a small business owner, I know firsthand how difficult it is to operate in this state.
“Small businesses are the backbone of the economy. We need to help them by reducing onerous regulations, lowering taxes, and helping them create jobs. I’m encouraged by the $2.6 billion in funding for small business grants and hope that we can continue looking for ways to ease the burden on hardworking California families and business owners so they can get back on their feet, recover, and prosper.
“In January, the Governor announced a record $227 billion spending plan along with a $15 billion budget surplus, so there should be no need to raise taxes or fees as we begin to rebuild from the pandemic.”
