2003 Cal-bred News

Bob Fox's Legislative Analysis

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 10, 2003) -- Action was taken on several bills of interest or concern to CTBA this week.

In addition the State Water Resources Control Board revised a proposed fee schedule to monitor water quality, and for the first time included horses that are "in confinement" for at least 45 days. CTBA is working with the Board staff to get clarification on the proposal and will provide information to the members as it is obtained. At this point it doesn't appear that it will affect CTBA members, but we are still analyzing the proposal.

Legislative activity is summarized below.
AB 923, Firebaugh, sponsored by the UFW, passed the Senate Health Committee on a strict party line vote. This is the bill that would eliminate the tax exemption on agriculture equipment, diesel, and race horse breeding stock. It is strongly opposed by every major agricultural organization, including the CTBA. We anticipate a fierce floor fight when the bill is heard on the Senate floor and CTBA will keep members informed when it is time to contact your Senator. There is some speculation that AB 923 could be referred to a Conference committee along with other health care measures and be considered there.

AB 924, Maldonado, which increases the penalties for trespassing on private property passed the Assembly and is now on its way to the Governor for his signature. CTBA supported and lobbied this important measure.

SCA 10, Florez, sponsored by the Indian Tribes, which would limit card clubs and horse racing's ability to "expand" has not been set for a hearing. CTBA opposes SCA 10.

AB 1489, Negrete Mcloud, sponsored by the Alameda County Fair, dealing with racing dates for fairs, was pulled from the Senate GO Committee because of opposition by Magna, Hollywood Park, and at least two fairs. CTBA was neutral on AB 1489.\

SB 707, Florez, which would have severely limited the ability for a variety of animal oriented operations to expand, including racing facilities, was amended in committee. It now just applies to "mega
dairies" with more than 700 mature cows. The CTBA and others in racing had originally opposed SB 707 and we had gotten an exemption for racing, but the final version only applies to dairies. This is a major victory for racing.

Workers' Comp: On Thursday Senate Pro Tempore John Burton announced that there will be Conference Committee named to consider the numerous bills dealing with Workers' Compensation. The conferees have not been named, but the committee will most likely consist of four Democrats and two Republicans.

The Senate and Assembly both adjourned for the week on Thursday with no action on the budget. The budget is now 10 days late and while there is a lot of rhetoric, there has been little or no action. Some State employees and vendors will not be paid until a budget is approved and signed.

There is a strong consensus that the recall of Governor Davis will qualify and that the election will be held either in October or March of 2004. Practically everyone in Sacramento is speculating about who will actually put their names on the ballot. When the election is held, voters will vote for or against the recall, and on the same ballot vote for a replacement. All it will take is a plurality to win, so a lot of uncertainty will be evident. Both the pro and anti recall forces will no doubt be aggressively raising money for their campaigns.