SACRAMENTO -- State Senate President pro tempore Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) announced his new Democratic leadership team for California's upper legislative house Monday.

"These difficult economic times call for a Legislature that focuses on production and work on behalf of the people," Steinberg said in a statement announcing the appointments. "I am honored to have these dedicated public servants as partners in solving California's greatest challenges."

Sen. Dean Florez (D-Shafter) was named the next Senate Majority Leader, while Sen. Jenny Oropeza of Long Beach will serve as Democratic Caucus Chair.

In addition, Sen. Christine Kehoe (D-San Diego) will serve as the chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Sen. Denise Ducheny (D-San Diego) as the chair of the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee.

The Democratic caucus also elected Oropeza and Sen. Gil Cedillo (D-Los Angeles) to represent the party on the Senate Rules Committee.