League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
San Diego, Riverside County, CA June 5, 2012 Election
	John McLaughlin Answers Questions Candidate for Member of the State Assembly; District 71

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of California Education Fund and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. How will you prioritize the budget choices the Legislature must make to align the state’s income and spending?

In any budget process, it is imperative to understand the total revenue first. The Legislature should use the most conservative number provided by the Legislative Analyst Office. A more accurate estimate will reduce revisions later and budget shortfalls from false expectation of revenues.

First, we should fund public safety, and then reduce the remaining services to balance the budget.

During years of surplus, the budget growth should be capped to increase no more than the increase in population plus inflation. Any excess should be used to pay down California's debt and then saved for future expenditure. During years of deficit, the budget should be cut to match the decrease in revenues. Every American household must make these choices, why not the Legislature?

2. What types of changes or reforms, if any, do you think are important to make our state government function more effectively?

Eliminate

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' statements are presented as submitted. References to opponents are not permitted.

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: April 26, 2012 03:49
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