California's budget impasse is cause for serious concern.
Parents should worry about its toll on schools. Anyone who drives, visits parks, or has an elderly or infirm friend or family member should fret about cuts already made and more that are in store.
Voters should be upset at the inability of their representatives to reach an accord, and remember it come election time.
But as bad California's financial situation is, Gov. Jerry Brown and the Democrats should not panic. Instead, they should exercise the power of the majority party.
Unfettered by the refusal of most Republicans to engage in serious budget negotiations, Democratic lawmakers no doubt will revive bills that business groups see as "job killers."
Expect legislation to raise the minimum wage, for example. Democrats also could aim further budget cuts at Republicans who have shirked their responsibility.
Democrats' organized labor allies are considering initiatives to raise taxes – no doubt on wealthy individuals and big business.
But all that notwithstanding, Brown and Democratic legislators have made significant process.
In November, the Legislative Analyst's Office recommended a multi-year workout plan. In the first year, the LAO suggested, the state could cut $10 billion, and raise $15 billion through temporary solutions, also known as gimmicks.
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