State Budget Deadlock
The persistence of problems in state finance is evident in one situation over a century ago.
Although the California Legislature had appropriated $25,000 for a state geological survey in 1860, the state treasurer, for lack of funds, was continually delinquent in paying the salaries and expenses of the survey team.
Writing to his brother in November, 1861, team member William Brewer remarked that “ . . . the actions of legislatures in such matters are very uncertain. . . . The present tardiness in paying us is most unfortunate. . . . Even the Governor has not been paid any salary since May last.” Might be an idea there?
GENE BARMORE
Huntington Beach
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