Today's Fresh Meat

[courtesy of The California Majority Report]

AB 1x1 -- the state's landmark healthcare bill -- has passed the Assembly. If the Senate approves, 70% of California's uninsured, including all children, would be covered, and most Californians would be required to acquire health insurance. Subsidies, rebates, and exemptions would be provided for those below 400% of the poverty line, or for those who's medical expenses exceed 5.5%.

Given the looming deficit, it's not surprising that Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata and others are wary about supporting the healthcare bill, even if it doesn't tap into the general fund. Twenty-one lawmakers are doing their part in refusing a $3,110 per year raise. Among them are Assemblypersons Jean Fuller (R-Bakersfield) Mark Leno (D-San Francisco) and Cathleen Galgiani (D-Stockton).

Mitt Romney's run for the highest office is causing a stir in the Mormon community statewide. Californian Mormons are "raising money and rallying support" for the former Massachusetts governor.

There's more... 

Image courtesy of Sacbee.com