California

The California state budget drama continued to play out this week as lawmakers prepare to vote Thursday on an agreement that would close a $26 billion shortfall. The compromise would be one that includes billions of dollars in healthcare and education cuts.

Tuesday at midnight was the deadline for most states to have completed their budget proposals for the coming fiscal year. Many didn't make it, placing state services, including Medicaid programs, at risk of significant cuts.

The battle appears to be raging on over representation of California's healthcare workers. Recent reports indicate that as part of its strategy to win, the Service Employees International Union may be resorting to anti-organization tactics it once railed against.