Senator George Runner
Serving the 17th District which incorporates portions of the Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Ventura and Kern counties.

With our economy in shambles and our markets frozen, the last thing we need right now are more Californians out of work. And, as Californians weigh in on the upcoming ballot measures, our state is poised to have the highest tax burden in the country, as well as one of the least business-friendly environments in the nation. The combination of higher unemployment and greater taxes for those still clinging to their jobs and businesses could be fatal for California.

It is well understood, California has been the home to numerous innovators and industry leaders. Unfortunately, many of these companies have been forced to fold or leave the state. Last year, more Californians left the state, some 135,000, than those who settled here, and these numbers are getting worse. In particular, our tech and shipping industries are seriously burdened by the growing regulation coming out of Sacramento. The burdens and restrictions placed on our state’s businesses, coupled with federal tax increases targeting their owners and entrepreneurs, could be the perfect recipe for yet another disaster once income, sales, and car taxes passed earlier this year are added to the mix.

The lesson learned must be that California cannot afford irresponsible public policy at a time like this. We must fight for policies that encourage, rather than hinder business growth. Senate Republicans are offering common sense solutions, such as greater workplace flexibility. We’re also working to reform government and decrease the tax burden on our citizens.

Now, more than ever, we need those in Sacramento to make the tough choices and put the California taxpayer first. In the end, our damaged economy and the future of this state depends on the decisions made in the Legislature over the next year. We must come to terms with our own problems and put aside our philosophies. If past actions are the beginning, California cannot survive unless Sacramento changes its status quo.