Senator Portantino’s Statement on the Governor’s May Revise and Economic Recovery Package

For Immediate Release: May 14, 2021

Contact: Lerna Shirinian, (818) 807-6091

Senator Portantino’s Statement on the Governor’s May Revise and Economic Recovery Package

SACRAMENTO – Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – La Canada-Flintridge) released the following the statement on Governor Newsom’s May Revise and the California Comeback Plan for the 5th largest economy in the world:

“As part of his $100 billion California ComeBack Plan, the Governor has proposed important investments that not only will help our state recover from the economic effects of the pandemic, but also provides long term solutions to challenges that California has been facing for many years.

The plan provides immediate relief for low and middle income Californians through tax rebates and renter assistance, funding for housing affordability initiatives, and new funding to support small businesses owners who have faced tremendous challenges to survive this pandemic. It also increases much needed housing for homeless individuals through encampment strategies, funding for student homelessness, and initiatives such as Homekey and Project Roomkey.

The May Revise proposes the highest levels of funding our public education system, including college affordability, investing in broadband for all, as well as additional funding to help schools reopen safely and get students back in school full time in the fall. These investments are critical to helping our youth achieve academic success and prepare the next generation of leaders.

I am particularly pleased that the May Revise addresses our mental health system and proposes to make investments to enhance case management, housing related services, and early detection and prevention for youth. Millions of Californians, including at least 1 in 5 youth, live with mental health challenges and we must continue to create meaningful ways to support those in need of help.

I am also very grateful that the Governor has also proposed desperately needed funding and reform for state agencies, specifically EDD, in order to provide expedited and efficient services to Californians who have lost their income during these difficult times.

I’m proud of our strong fiscal foundation, which includes 24.4 billion in reserves, and look forward to working with the Governor and my colleagues to pass a sound and transformational budget next month.”

###