At a meeting with business leaders in San Diego today, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger criticized Democrats for failing to pass a state budget to close a $19 billion deficit.
"They have yet to put up their own budget," Schwarzenegger said during a discussion with local business leaders hosted by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce. "So we are now a month late and we still don't have a budget from the Democrats."
He said negotiations continue, but the state is still weeks away from passing a budget.
Wednesday, Schwarzenegger issued an executive order again requiring state workers to take three unpaid furlough days a month. Furloughs were also instituted last year.
Schwarzenegger said he won't sign any spending plan that relies on taxes or borrowing, something he accused Democrats of using instead of making "painful cuts."
"One thing we know is we have to go in and cut down the structural deficit," Schwarzenegger said.
The governor called for an overhaul of the state's tax system, arguing that it unfairly relies on the wealthy. He also wants to reduce government spending, reform pensions and establish a rainy-day fund.
