Economic downturns, and hence big reductions in state revenues, present California budget makers with a dilemma. Should the deficits be cut by reducing expenditures for state government programs, or should revenues be increased by raising taxes? Use the budget challenge at https://www.budgetchallenge.org/challenges/12/pages/home?utm_source=next10&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=budget (Links to an external site.) to create a budget that reflects your values and vision for the California’s future.
Explain, in general, what programs and expenditures you would prioritize, those you would cut, if any, and/or how you would increase revenue to achieve a balanced budget. Include in your analysis the pressures (both inside and outside the Capitol) that the legislators will have to overcome to adopt your budget.