Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger told legislative leaders Tuesday not to leave Sacramento for national political conventions or other business until a state budget is passed.
Schwarzenegger, after an hourlong meeting with legislative leaders, expressed frustration at the state's failure to pass a budget seven weeks into the new fiscal year.
"I think it's inexcusable not to have a budget yet," he said.
With no pact in sight, Schwarzenegger said he doesn't want lawmakers leaving Sacramento until agreement is reached.
The Democratic National Convention begins Monday and the Republican National Convention starts a week later, Sept. 1.
"I recommend everyone to stay here until we have a budget and not for anyone to leave," Schwarzenegger said. "Absolutely."
All four legislative leaders said after the meeting that they do not object to skipping national conventions, if necessary, to strike a deal.
Schwarzenegger, in brief comments, did not elaborate on whether his request applied to all lawmakers or simply party leaders.
The governor said "serious budget reform" is "absolutely essential" and expressed opposition to borrowing money to ease the state's $15.2 billion deficit.
"I think it's important for everyone to recognize that we need to compromise here," Schwarzenegger said.
"Everyone can get stuck in their ideology - you know, there's Democrats and Republicans, they all have their ideology. I totally understand it, but I think we all have to give in order to make this happen."
Assembly Republican leader Mike Villines said he walked out of of Tuesday's meeting because the focus was on raising taxes.
Schwarzenegger has not abandoned his recent proposal to temporarily raise the state's sales tax by 1 cent, Villines said.
Villines, R-Clovis, said he cannot accept a tax hike of any kind.
"I left the meeting very frustrated," he said. "I'm tired of being in a room where three people keep talking about tax increases."
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