The L.A. Times reports California is already looking to grab some of the $2.4 billion in high-speed rail funds Florida Gov. Rick Scott rejected Wednesday. The state picked up more than $600 million when Wisconsin and Ohio rejected their federal allotments last year. However, the Times’ piece points out about $15 billion in federal funds would still be needed, an increasingly unlikely scenario with Republicans aiming to trim spending.

In other transportation news, the president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce declared his support for Villaraigosa’s 30/10 plan, the Times says.  The chamber’s support could be crucial in convincing the Republican House to back the mayor’s goal of building a series of transportation projects in 10 years instead of 30.

Borders filed for bankruptcy Wednesday. KPCC reports 15 stores around the Southland will close. The New York Times delves into what it means for a changing industry.

Also, Neon Tommy's Hillel Aron examines organized labor's fight against Councilman Bernard Parks. The former police chief is in a tough reelection campaign against Forescee Hogan-Rowles, who has won labor's backing. The story is part of a partnership between USC Annenberg and KCET's Socal Connected. 

Reach reporter Andrew Khouri here.