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Leaders Say State Budget Woes to Dominate 2008 Agenda

California's budget woes will overshadow the Governor's State of the State address on Tuesday. Legislative leaders say they're gearing up for the issue that will command much of their attention. From

California's budget woes will overshadow the Governor's State of the State address on Tuesday. Legislative leaders say they're gearing up for the issue that will command much of their attention. From Sacramento Jenny O'Mara reports.

Democratic Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez says there's no doubt this year's top priority is the $14 billion budget deficit.

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Nunez : This is one of the worst budget crisis that California's ever been confronted with, and it's not going to be easy to get out of.

The governor is expected to introduce some ideas to reform the budget process in his State of the State address. He's also said this would be the “Year of Education.” His spokesman says that's still a priority.

Assembly Republican Leader Mike Villines says allowing Californians to follow the money in education is a good start.

Villines : And see what is benefiting their child and their teacher. I like the idea of transparency and I think there are some reforms we could work together on to do that.

Schwarzenegger Administration officials say the governor will also highlight the need for more private investments in public works projects.