California IN BRIEF : SACRAMENTO : Easy Confirmation Expected for Fong

Matt Fong, the first Chinese-American named to a major state post by Gov. Pete Wilson, appeared likely to be confirmed by the Legislature as the newest member of the State Board of Equalization. Officials in the Senate and the Assembly predicted that he would face little opposition. Fong’s 4th District seat on the tax board encompasses most of Los Angeles County. “There doesn’t seem to be any problem with Fong,” said Michael Reese, press secretary for Assembly Speaker Willie Brown (D-San Francisco). Because Fong is filling a constitutional office, he must be confirmed by both houses within 90 days.