Did Democrats Really Get Budget Done On Time?

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Democratic lawmakers say they balanced California's budget and passed it on time for the second year in a row — an achievement they say will begin to restore public confidence in the state Legislature.

But is the budget really done? No.

Lawmakers on Friday passed the main budget bill calling for $92 billion in state spending, but they didn't take up about 20 companion bills. Those bills contain the implementing language of the budget and direct the state on the most contentious issues from welfare cuts to funding for local jail construction.

Democrats are also relying on voters to approve tax hikes in November.

Anti-tax advocates say Democrats passed an incomplete budget filled with gimmicks so they can continue getting paid.

So far, no one has challenged lawmakers.

Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.