Political Briefs

Senator Jack Scott wants the state to make an educated promise to California students. In a Tuesday morning press conference, Scott announced the introduction of new legislation that promises students an opportunity to pursue a college degree in return for taking the necessary steps to prepare beginning as soon as seventh grade. This legislation has bipartisan support, including Assembly member Anthony Portantino (D-La Cañada) and Senator Mark Wyland (R).

State Senator Jack Scott sent a letter to the chair of the California Transportation Committee urging them to fully fund the Los Angeles Metropolitan Agency's transportation plan. His letter included asking for funding for carpool lanes on Interstate 5 from Orange County Line to Interstate 605 and on Interstate 5 from Route 134 to 170.

State Senator Jack Scott, joined former NASA astronaut Sally Ride in announcing new legislation that will help the state retain qualified math and science teachers. Scott pointed out that the state's economy is highly dependent on jobs that require strong math and science skills. On March 7, Scott will provide details on SB 858, SV 859 and SB 112. The goal of this legislation is to attract, recruit and retain math and science teachers which in turn will give California a competitive edge in the new world of technology.

Congressman Adam Schiff hosted two breakfasts with local Asian-American and Armenian-American student leaders to discuss public service. Nominated by their school principals, the students attended the breakfast with community leaders and other elected officials. The breakfasts are part of a series of meetings Schiff has hosted with minority student leaders to promote diversity in public service.

Congressman Adam Schiff's web site was honored on Monday by the Congressional Management Foundation, a non-profit, non- partisan management consulting and research organization. The web site was honored for being one of the best in Congress. The site is, www.house.gov/schiff

Congressman David Dreier, introduced H.R.1149, the Justice for Public Safety Officers Act. If passed the bill will make it a federal crime to kill a law enforcement officer and flee the country to avoid prosecution. The bill includes provisions imposing a mandatory minimum of 30 years in prison for the murder of a public safety officer and an additional mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison for fleeing the country to avoid prosecution.