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A laptop shows highlights of California Governor Jerry Brown's proposed budget during a press conference at the State Capitol on January 10, 2011 in Sacramento, California.

Finding a solution to California’s budget crisis is the foremost problem Jerry Brown faces as our new governor, and he took a big step toward a solution this week when he unveiled his budget plan that slashes spending by $12.5 billion and calls for extending tax increases already in place. But is this new plan really a solution? The state legislative analyst thinks it’s a good jumping off point, but there are inherent risks. And will Democratic and Republican lawmakers find common ground?

Guests:

Mac Taylor, California Legislative Analyst

Sen. Bob Huff, R-CA’s 29th District, which includes portions of Los Angeles, Orange, and San Bernardino counties; Vice-Chair of the Senate Budget Committee

Sen. Darrell Steinberg, D-CA's 6th District; State Senate President pro Tem