.Thursday Must Read: Top State Democrats Threaten Tax Revolution; AC Transit Raises Fares — Again

Stories you shouldn’t miss:

1. File this one under “why haven’t we done this already?” Democratic state senate leader Darrell Steinberg is threatening to pass a bill that would allow counties and school districts to raise numerous taxes on their own, with approval of local voters — without needing the state’s okay. Steinberg says he’ll move forward with his bill if Republicans continue to block the governor’s tax measures. The LA Times reports that the bill, which passed out of committee last week, would let counties and school districts ask local voters to raise income taxes, increase the vehicle license fee, and boost levies on liquor, tobacco, and soft drinks. They can even enact their own oil extraction fees. And get this — Steinberg’s bill only requires a majority vote of the Legislature, meaning it can pass without Republican support. No wonder business groups are suddenly pressuring lawmakers to strike a budget deal.

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