SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Democratic lawmakers are starting the new year with a tail wind they haven't had in 130 years — supermajorities in both houses of the state Legislature.
They also will be working with a governor of the same political party, a combination that means they can unilaterally increase taxes, pass emergency legislation and put constitutional amendments before voters.
As the legislative sessions opens Monday, Democrats' lengthy agenda includes state environmental laws, K-12 and higher education funding, and making sure California is prepared for federal health care reforms. No longer can Democrats blame minority Republicans for blocking their priorities.
Democratic state Sen. Michael Rubio of Bakersfield says the party has "no more excuses" for taking action.
