They're trying to reach a compromise on the plan to let voters decide whether to extend sales, personal income and vehicle taxes for five-years.
Senate Democratic Leader Darrell Steinberg says he's willing to work with Republicans on proposals like pension reforms and a spending cap…to a point.
"The minority party here is relevant. They're always relevant, whether there's a two-thirds construct or not, because they're elected officials and they have an important contribution to make. But don't overplay it."
Erin Shaw is with the office of Sam Blakeslee, one of the Republicans in talks with Governor Brown. She says the "GOP Five" - as they're known - have accepted the governor's challenge to "step out of their comfort zone."
"They're hopeful that the governor is going to be working to deliver the same type of message to his constituencies and stakeholders. They very much believe that the time for breaking the status quo is now."
Democratic leaders of the Senate and Assembly are aiming for floor votes on a budget package this week.
