Governor Collects Nearly 30,000 State Cell Phones

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) -- California has eliminated nearly 30,000 state cell phones since January, achieving much of the savings promised when Gov. Jerry Brown announced the cost-cutting measure.

The administration announced Wednesday that it has retrieved 29,348 state cell phones, 44 percent of all those issued to employees in offices under the governor's direct control.

That's close to the 50 percent goal Brown announced in January. He says hitting that mark would save the state $13 million a year.

Some departments asked for exemptions, but Brown still hopes to reach the goal within 30 days.

The cost-cutting update came as Brown attempts to negotiate a budget deal with Republicans, hinging in part on whether to extend temporary tax increases until voters can consider them. Lawmakers have until June 15 to deliver a balanced budget.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)