Three for the State Legislature : Times endorses Katz and Friedman in the Assembly, Hill in the Senate

Times policy is to endorse selectively, on a case-by-case basis. Here are recommendations in three state races:

RICHARD KATZ (39th Assembly District): There is no contest here. Katz, in the Assembly since 1980, faces no credible opposition in political novice--and extreme conservative--Nicholas Fitzgerald for this solidly Democratic seat in the San Fernando Valley. Katz has been an author of key laws, including California’s mass transit master plan and measures to clean up leaking toxic pits and to apply free market concepts to water distribution. He deserves reelection.

TERRY B. FRIEDMAN (41st Assembly District): This redrawn, Democratic-leaning district includes Santa Monica and the western San Fernando Valley. Friedman, a Democrat, faces moderate Republican Christine Reed, a respected former mayor of Santa Monica.

The candidates differ most sharply on Proposition 165, which would dramatically shift budgetary power to the governor in addition to cutting welfare benefits. Reed supports Prop. 165 while Friedman wisely opposes it as a measure that would give the governor more power than any one politician should have.

Friedman has served with distinction since 1986. He sponsored laws designed to keep drunk drivers off the road, crack down on drive-by shootings, fund more police foot patrols and ban job discrimination against homosexuals. He has demonstrated a strong commitment to fairness and a willingness to compromise. He merits reelection. FRANK HILL (29th State Senate District): In this Republican-leaning district along the eastern edge of Los Angeles County, GOP Sen. Frank Hill, a one-term incumbent, faces Democrat Sandy Hester, a political newcomer. Hill is right in supporting no-fault auto insurance and reform of California’s inefficient workers’ compensation system. We favor him also because of his environmental concerns; in addition, he won bipartisan plaudits this year for his effort to break the long budget impasse in Sacramento. Hill has more than earned reelection.