BOE Member Vazquez Issues Statement on State Budget Proposal

Sacramento - California State Board of Equalization (BOE) Member Antonio Vazquez issued this statement about Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed budget for 2019-20:

"This Budget brings much-needed relief to underserved Californians who struggle to meet their basic needs and provides the hope of opportunity for their children by more than doubling the existing Cal EITC with the Working Families Tax Credit and increasing investment in affordable housing, expanded paid family leave, universal preschool and kindergarten, child care, K-12 schools, community colleges, and state universities.

"California's continuing water crisis has made it clear that safe and affordable drinking water for all is non-negotiable, and the Budget's proposed short- and long-term measures will help bring long-overdue water security to communities without safe drinking water.

"The allocations for an immigration rapid response program and ongoing immigration-related services are sorely needed to address the increasingly unjust treatment of immigrants - particularly those from Mexico and Central America.

"Finally, I commend Governor Newsom for addressing the crucial needs of the most vulnerable populations in California while taking strong and effective measures to create a balanced budget and increase budget resiliency - helping to maintain a strong foundation for the state's economic health and growth, now and for the future."

Elected on November 6, 2018, Board Member Antonio Vazquez is the Third District Member of the California State Board of Equalization, representing more than 9.5 million residents in Los Angeles, a portion of San Bernardino, and Ventura Counties. Vazquez previously served on the Santa Monica City Council for over 10 years, including holding the offices of Mayor Pro Tempore in 2015 and Mayor in 2016.

The five-member California State Board of Equalization (BOE) is a publicly elected tax board that serves a significant role in the assessment and administration of property taxes.

Note: This news release may discuss complex tax laws and concepts. It may not address every situation and is not considered written advice under Revenue and Taxation Code section 6596. Changes in law or regulations may have occurred since the time this news release was written. If there is a conflict between the text of this news release and the law, decisions will be based upon the law and not this news release. For specific help, please contact the BOE at 1-800-400-7115.

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