The games in Sacramento continue, long past the time to come clean to hard-working Californians.

It’s now clear that California is facing a substantial budget deficit — one that Gov. Newsom is trying to will out of existence. An “early action” plan from Newsom and lawmakers doesn’t have the substantial program cuts required, instead relying on smoke and mirrors.

Assembly Budget Vice Chair Vince Fong is tired of it. He released the following statement last week that I’m sure resonates with most Californians.

“The state has a $73 billion deficit. It is clear — budget gimmicks, cost shifts and deferrals are not enough. The majority wants to spend half of the state’s savings without a clear and a sustainable plan for the for the future. What happens if the state faces another deep deficit next year?

“Until spending is under control, the Rainy Day Fund should not be touched. There are no structural reforms. We have an ongoing spending problem, but there are no ongoing spending solutions. The public needs and deserves more transparency. This deal continues to rely on delays and gimmicks creating uncertainty and instability in the future.”