Posted on 08/15/2005 7:52:53 AM PDT by SmithL
State lawmakers return today from a monthlong summer recess to face a slate of proposals diminished by the prospect of a special election that has dominated the Capitol's political debate this year.
While there remain bold and controversial bills to establish gay marriage, universal health care and illegal immigrant driver's licenses, they have major stumbling blocks this year.
Other Democratic proposals, such as a plan to increase the minimum wage, can expect an almost certain veto from Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who blocked a number of bills opposed by businesses last year.
Meanwhile, some of the year's most contentious issues - a budget spending cap, prescription-drug discounts, political use of union dues, parental notification of abortions, and redistricting - likely will be settled on the ballot rather than in the Capitol.
"I think everybody is going to have one foot on the special election and the other foot on the Legislature," Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez said. "It would be wrong to say that legislative actions in the next couple of weeks are going to have everybody's undivided attention."
(Excerpt) Read more at sacbee.com ...
I support almost all of the propositions on the Special Election. And anything that can distract the Legislature from its usual mischief has got to be a good thing.
Go business!
They're spending millions on smear tactics, but the "people of Kaleefahrnya" are ready for the fight. I'm thinking Ahnold will come out swinging and get his base fired up right before the (desperately needed) special election.
Yup, we love Aaaahhhnold. He'll show 'em.
California, were the politicians choose us, instead of the other way around.
Go Gov. Arnie! We're sick of being ruled by labor unions.
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