The state Senate on Tuesday passed a measure that would move California’s presidential primary election to the first Tuesday in February beginning in 2008, while leaving the statewide primary election in June.  Supporters say the measure is necessary in California because presidential candidates typically visit the state to raise money but spend little time courting voters. The Democrat and Republican nominations are usually decided long before the state's traditional June primary according to proponents. State Senator Cox argues that this measure is NOT about making California relevant.  It is about changing term limits and redistricting.  In addition, this measure would cost $50 to $60 million.  We still face a multi-billion dollar structural deficit and we have higher priorities than an expensive election. The Bill will now move to the assembly.

Assemblyman Jim Beall, D-San Jose. Has proposed a new piece of legislation to help the middle class more easily afford college tuition for their children. Beall has proposed legislation to allow people to pay at today's prices for tuition they will use far in the future, when prices are likely to be higher. Contributors could add dollars into specified accounts at any time. The goal of Beall's bill, Assembly Bill 152, is to provide a hedge against inflation for middle-class students who do not qualify for financial aid but are squeezed by skyrocketing tuition. "For a huge number of families, these programs are a tremendous opportunity," said Jackie Williams, chairwoman of the College Savings Plans Network, a nonprofit group. UC tuition and fees have nearly quadrupled since 1991 -- and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has proposed an additional $500 increase for the University of California and $252 for California State University. Beall's bill is patterned after a successful program in Washington State that has attracted more than 70,000 participants in nearly a decade.