California’s budget deficit is currently estimated at $19 billion, but the Golden State also suffers from myriad tax-based problems. To recover economic prosperity, the state needs immediate tax reform and long-term tax relief.

The November elections have been dominating the news, obscuring a story of great interest to those who find little merit in most government policies on women’s or gender issues. Sometimes, however, a government measure can have a positive effect. That even holds true in, of all places, California.

Opposition to the new health reform law is continuing to grow in the states - just as Congress prepares for its final pre-election legislative session.

Anticipating repeal, states are using a variety of tactics to oppose Obamacare, but in California the Legislature is trying to rush it into existence. That should concern every Californian, especially Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

The tax swap proposed by Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg may be dead, but it can still help educate legislators in their quest to fix the budget, currently about $20 billion in the red, and restore prosperity in California.