The Republican-led chamber, requiring only a simple majority, voted to clear a procedural step and set the stage for confirmation likely this weekend.
Republican and Democratic legislators are looking to reform the primary election process put in place by SB54 10 years ago.
Leaders held their first press conference of the legislative session on Thursday to discuss some of the top issues including the proposed new prison.
The California state Legislature has approved a more than $2.5 billion package to help the Los Angeles area recover from its recent deadly wildfires.