<p>State legislators old and new convened briefly in Sacramento on Monday to formally launch the new biennial session, and, as usual, it was marked by ceremonial pomp, backslapping bonhomie and photo-snapping by proud family members.</p>
<p>Lawmakers had best remember the day, because it may be the session's high point of conviviality. Given the makeup of the Legislature and the enormity of the state's budget deficit, countless months of partisan and personal rancor lie ahead.</p>