California Lawmakers Hold Hundreds of Bills in Suspense Amid Budget Deficit

SACRAMENTO—With the state facing a significant budget deficit, California’s Appropriations committees held May 16 more than 300 bills with fiscal impacts during the first of two annual so-called suspense file hearings. Known as “suspense day,” the hearings are a fast-paced run-through of bills placed on suspense because they impact the general fund by $50,000 or any fund by $150,000. No debate or discussions are allowed, as bills are passed or held with votes already pre-determined in most instances. California state Senate Appropriations Committee suspense file hearing in Sacramento on May 16, 2024. (Travis Gillmore/The Epoch Times) Citing budget constraints and spending concerns, lawmakers held nearly 32 percent of the bills under consideration—approximately 7 percent more proposals than the historical average....