GOP Tries to Trade Environmental Regulations for Tax-Cut Vote

The latest Field Poll says 58 percent of California voters approved Governor Brown's plan for closing the $26 billion state budget gap. He wants half made up with spending cuts and half by extending expired taxes on income, sales and vehicles — but only if voters approve in a special election. Democrats have enough votes to give him the cuts, but Republicans are required to put the tax extensions on the ballot in June. The GOP's official position is "No." But today's Los Angeles Times reports that five Republicans are negotiating with the Governor, asking him for some major concessions.