Policy & Legislation
Steinberg's Election Good News for Affordable-Home Advocates
February 21, 2008After voters defeated a term-limits revision measure on February 5, 2008, Senate Democrats moved surprisingly swiftly to designate Senator Darrell Steinberg as the next President pro Tempore of the Senate.
The 25-member Senate Democratic Caucus did not hold a formal vote. However, after it became apparent Steinberg had the support of a majority of the caucus, on February 7, all caucus members agreed to support his election in August. This agreement gives Steinberg more than the 21 votes he needs to be elected by the full Senate.
Passage of Proposition 93 would have allowed the current President pro Tem, Don Perata, to serve another four years in the Senate. Instead, Perata will term out in November.
Organizations that advocate for homes affordable to all Californians greeted Steinberg’s win with enthusiasm. He is a long-time supporter of state investment in more affordable homes, including under the Mental Health Services Act. For the past three years, he has served as an honorary chair and speaker at Housing California's "Creating Community" conference, which focuses on mental health and homeless issues.
The Assembly Democratic Caucus set March 11, 2008, to begin discussions about who will succeed Speaker Fabian Nunez. At least eight Assemblymembers are competing for the position.
Contact Julie Snyder, (916) 447-0503 x 102 or .
