Following the governor’s May revision and a projected deficit of $12 billion, state lawmakers have a month to pass a balanced budget. Also, challenges facing California’s tourism industry. Finally, the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus.
It’s crunch time at the state Capitol. State lawmakers have about a month to come up with a balanced budget, and close a projected $12 billion shortfall. Last week, Gov. Newsom released his May Revision, which laid out how his office would prioritize spending and cuts. But ultimately legislators get a sound budget on paper and present it to the governor for his signature, ahead of a June 15 deadline - or else they don’t get paid. CapRadio Politics Reporters Laura Fitzgerald and Megan Myscofski join us with more on where lawmakers align with the governor, and what big unknowns still remain.
California touts itself as the #1 tourist destination in the country. And 2024 was record-breaking. But this year, less people are visiting the Golden State. The biggest decline is international travel, including big drops from Canadians, as politics sour once stable relationships. Ryan Becker is the Senior Vice President of Communications and Strategy at Visit California and joins us with their travel forecast for 2025, as well as some tips for locals to enjoy their home state.
The Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus has been entertaining audiences and providing a community for LGBTQ+ performers for 40 years. They’re about to celebrate this anniversary year with a series of concerts running through June. This first takes place this Sunday, May 25 at Southside Park. Artistic Director Alex Heetland and Board Secretary and Singer Andrew Gibout tell us what to expect from the chorus this summer.