Bob Fox's Legislative Update

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Aug. 15, 2002) -- With just a little more than two weeks left in the legislative session, there is still no agreement on the budget. However, some progress has been made and a number of bills were amended on the floor on Thursday that could become the trailer bills, once an agreement is reached.

There is some optimism that an agreement will be reached this week or next week, and will contain a portion of the tobacco tax that was proposed, and some significant additional cuts in spending. Here is a summary of the actions taken recently, and the status of bills of interest to CTBA.

AB 1803, Harmon which would permit the quarter horse association to write paint horse races and makes technical changes in the B & P Code, has passed the Senate and has been enrolled.

AB 2619, Strickland the CTT-sponsored bill was amended on the Senate floor on Wednesday, to reflect the agreement reached between the TOC and CTT. It is anticipated that the bill will be heard on the Senate floor on Monday, pass, and be referred to the Assembly for concurrence in the amendments.

AB 2931, Horton, the Workers comp bill passed the Senate on consent and has been sent back to the Assembly for concurrence. It has an urgency clause and will become effective upon signature of the Governor.

SB 1337, Vincent, the Jock's Guild sponsored bill dealing with distribution of charity days funds is still on the Assembly floor waiting for amendments. It has been the subject of negotiations between the tracks and the Jock's guild for several weeks and it appears that the two sides have reached an agreement.

AB 2338, Papan, dealing with the dates for the San Mateo County Fair race meet passed the Senate and is on the Governor's desk.

SB 1340 Vincent, would provide for "California-bred Paint horses" and passed the Senate and is on the Governor's desk.

SB 1661, Kuehl, the family disability leave bill, was heard in the Assembly Appropriations committee and was sent to the suspense file. It will be considered with the other suspense bills. CTBA strongly opposes this bill, opposed it in committee, and is on record with letters of opposition. The association also joined a coalition organized by the State Chamber of Commerce opposing this costly measure. CTBA members should contact their Assembly member and express their opposition immediately.

SB 1736, Burton, the binding arbitration for farm workers bill, passed the Senate and is being held there by Senator Burton to give the farm workers time to mobilize their support for the bill. A "march" through the San Joaquin valley has been organized by the UFW, and is expected to reach the capitol in the next several days. CTBA opposes this bill and members should communicate their opposition directly to the Governor's office with letters, Emails and phone calls.