A deal is in the works. Lawmakers now expect to announce a budget solution before the week is out.
State democratic leaders in both houses say, substantial agreement has been reached in most areas, including the Governor's reforms. But one notable area to be worked out is school cuts, including whether to suspend prop 98.
Passed by voters 21 years ago, Prop 98 committed the state of California to spend 40 percent of the general fund on schools. That was the focus of Tuesday's so-called "Big Five" meeting in the governor's office.
A settlement is now close according to the Assembly Speaker. Lawmakers are saying they hope they can tweek the formulas enough to cut education spending, without suspending prop 98.
