SAN DIEGO -- A two-part settlement will bring $400 million in refunds for California consumers who were victimized by market manipulation and exorbitant prices during the energy crisis of 2000-01.

The agreement with San Diego-based Sempra Energy will provide reimbursement of $270 million to California utility customers who each month pay off debt from the utility crisis on their gas and electric bills.

Sempra will also pay $130 million to consumers to settle separate claims by the state Public Utilities Commission and the Department of Water Resources.

SAN FRANCISCO – Closing arguments for the Proposition 8 trial has been set for Wednesday, June 16.

Judge Vaughn Walker held a hearing today in the federal courthouse in downtown San Francisco, then announced the decision.

Walker also set a timetable for the defense to submit a motion to suppress at least part of William Tam’s testimony. Tam, a conservative San Francisco minister, testified that he believed that his children would turn gay if marriage equality was permitted.

It’s down to the wire, almost. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is expected to release his proposed budget for next fiscal year in the coming weeks and while lawmakers pitch ideas — students continue to show their angst toward them.

But wait, it’s an election year too, so lawmakers better decide wisely. Read on to find out what students are saying, if Californians should expect more taxes and whether state employees will see another pay cut.

SACRAMENTO – Legislation to protect development from wildfire has passed two Senate committees.

The bill would require local governments to plan for wildfire hazards as they consider developing in state responsibility areas and very high fire hazard zones.

Local governments would be required to update their land use plans prior to Jan. 1, 2015.