Brown proposes $12.5 billion in spending cuts

That, plus $12 billion in tax extensions due to expire this year, should plug up most of the state's $25.4 billion deficit (and include a $1 billion reserve). Some of the cuts have been outlined in news reports, but the actual numbers, out this morning, look pretty stark. From Brown's news release:

Major spending reductions include $1.7 billion to Medi-Cal, $1.5 billion to California's welfare-to-work program (CalWORKs), $750 million to the Department of Developmental Services, $500 million to the University of California, $500 million to California State University, and $308 million for a 10 percent reduction in take-home pay for state employees not currently covered under collective bargaining agreements. Brown also plans to trim state government operations by $200 million through a variety of actions, including reorganizations, consolidations and other efficiencies.

A special election would take place in June on the proposal to extend taxes for 5 years. "Without decisive action, the state's severe budget problems will persist, threatening economic recovery, job growth, public education and the quality of life in California," he said. Presser is set for 11.