While budget discussions in the state Senate sputter, lawmakers around the Capitol are hearing from constituents about the lack of a spending plan. The state Assembly has approved a budget, but the Senate has not. Jenny O'Mara reports from Sacramento.
Democratic Senator Darrell Steinberg says he's received hundreds of calls and emails -- a higher volume than usual. He says many people are upset over a proposal in the state Assembly's budget plan to offer tax credits to certain businesses.
Steinberg : But I think underlying all of it is a frustration with why this can't get done in a timely fashion and in an easier way. I certainly share a lot of that.
But Republican state Senator Dave Cox says he's getting encouragement from callers who believe more spending cuts are needed.
Cox : Their admonition is to hang in there. They understand the importance of having a balanced budget.
GOP Senators say in addition to more cuts, a final budget deal must address other issues, including how bond money will be spent.
A state budget was supposed to be in place by the start of the new fiscal year: July 1.
