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.

You should consider lectures, discussions, class texts and current events in your answers. SUPPORT YOUR ANSWERS WITH EXAMPLES.