Liberals Demand Action From Calif. Supermajority

California liberals are demanding that Democrats now controlling a supermajority in both houses of the state legislature use their power rather than exercise restraint, according to the Los Angeles Times.

 

Although legislative leaders are hesitant to squander their new level of influence, high profile liberals in the state are urging lawmakers to implement new taxes on oil companies and overturn the state's ban on same-sex marriage.

 

They also want the legislature to reform or repeal Proposition 13, an initiative passed in 1978 to stop skyrocketing property taxes and regulate annual increases.

 

But according to the Times, some Democratic leaders recognize that their hold on a supermajority could be temporary. Two state senators are leaving the legislature for Congress early next year, which could prompt Assembly members to run for their vacated seats.

 

In addition, the leaders worry as well about a backlash to any radical proposals, which could come from moderates within their own party.