After a brief debate on the Senate floor this afternoon, legislation to move California’s presidential primary from June to February is on its way to the Assembly. And the leader of that chamber said today he expects the bill to be fast-tracked to the governor’s desk, perhaps even before the end of the month.

SB 113 by Sen. Ron Calderon (D-Montebello) passed the Senate on a 31-5 vote. Based on the final tally, there was more disagreement on the GOP side than among Democrats in whether the early primary is a good idea. But legislative leaders and Governor Schwarzenegger all seem behind it, so it’s likely a done deal.

Senate President pro Tempore Don Perata (D-Oakland) told reporters before the vote that he’s confident state leaders will also move to pick up the tab that will be run by local elections officials. An extra 2008 election could cost as much as $90 million.

At a noontime meeting of the Sacramento Press Club, Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez (D-LA) said he is confident SB 113 will sail through his house and will be ready for the governor’s signature in as little as 10 days.