Gov. Jerry Brown lays out vision for California in final State of the State address

Friday, January 26, 2018
Gov. Jerry Brown lays out vision for California in final State of the State address
The governor took time to praise pension and workers compensation reform while projecting a $6 billion surplus.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Governor Brown delivered his address with an upbeat message as he boasted about the economic growth in the state, and promoted major projects such as the High-Speed Rail. Some legislators are skeptical and say there was a lot he did not address.

Governor Jerry Brown used his 16th and final state of the state address to remind everyone of what has been accomplished in recent years, and what needs to be done moving forward.

"While it faces its share of difficulties, we should never forget the bounty and endless opportunities bestowed on this special place," said Brown.

The governor took time to praise pension and workers compensation reform while projecting a $6 billion surplus in the latest budget.

He also says that they will soon start expending funds on some water storage that has been needed for decades and brought to applause by supporters.

Brown also mentioned the California water fix program that is aimed to fix the state's broken water system, but local representatives want a more solid plan.

"We don't have a plan in place that will deliver enough water to support all of our communities the Central Valley, our Ag economy, and certainly our urban neighbors. We need him to step up and make a water plan, not just a water fix," said Assemblymember District 21 Adam Gray.

"What we're facing is in 2014 the people passed a water bond to have additional water storage, and the water commission is not upholding the agreement to the water bond," said Bigelow.

Brown also talked touted his efforts to fight climate change by defending the High-Speed Rail project despite its legal challenges and budget overruns.

"We are in danger in central California from having a rump railroad from a little outside of Bakersfield to a little outside of Merced, that is a failing project," said Assembly Member District 23 Jim Patterson.

The governor also mentioned this year's destructive fires, calling for task force of scientists and forest management experts to reduce wildfire threat.

However, legislators say the governor avoided discussing housing shortage issues, along with high living costs and poverty rates throughout the state.

Brown has served two terms and this is last year in office. The election is this November.