After several hours of arm-twisting, the California State Senate has narrowly signed off on new contracts with six labor unions – including the one that represents prison guards.
The debate centered on whether the deals go far enough. Democrat Lou Correa sponsored the bill.
“It does save money, and it’s a very good step forward to better manage our corrections system. I ask for an aye vote,” Correa said.
However, Republican Leader Bob Dutton disagreed.
“This bill does provide some short-term gain, but with a lot of long-term pain. I would suggest a no vote,” Dutton said.
Every Democrat and two Republicans voted yes – just enough to give the bill its required two-thirds supermajority. GOP Senator Anthony Cannella changed his vote at the last minute to assure the measure’s passage. It now moves to the Assembly.
