Our new op-ed submission policy

Shaping AI’s effect on employment in California

Image by Anton Vierietin.

by CORY JAYNES posted 07.14.2026

We are in a short lull in the legislative battle between Big Tech and Big Labor over the impact of AI on jobs in California. But when lawmakers return in a few weeks, they will deal with a plethora of measures aimed at how artificial intelligence is utilized the workplace.

A chat with Ahmad Thomas of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group

by CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST posted 07.13.2026

CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: Today we welcome Ahmad Thomas, CEO of the Silicon Valley Leadership Group, an association that represents hundreds of technology and innovation companies in the birthplace of the computer revolution. Thomas joined SVLG in 2020 and has overseen his organization’s efforts to encourage Sacramento to implement thoughtful AI policies that won’t “stifle innovation.” He is no stranger to legislative oversight -Thomas got his start as an aide to Senator Dianne Feinstein, an experience he cites as the foundation of his career.

Specialty law enforcement union warns about high job vacancies

Image by GummyBone.

by BRIAN JOSEPH posted 07.09.2026

A union for special public safety professionals says current vacancies up and down the state show their jobs are undervalued by the Legislature — and its endangering residents.

Lobbyist, author and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.

1967 wiretap law is fueling a shakedown of small businesses

Special agent listens on the reel tape recorder. Officer wiretapping in headphones. Spying of conversations.

by SEZANEH SEYMOUR and DANIEL WOODS posted 07.15.2026

OPINION — The California Invasion of Privacy Act, or CIPA, has become the weapon of choice in web privacy litigation. A staggering 75% of all web privacy claims are CIPA-related.

Capitol Briefs: Recess reset

Image by Wallentine.

by CAPTIOL WEEKLY STAFF posted 07.06.2026

The Legislature has adjourned for summer recess. Lawmakers will return in August to tackle hundreds of bills in their annual sprint to the finish of the session. Here are a few we find interesting.

Vote requirements for the Legislature to amend voter-approved ballot measures

Image by Vitalii Vodolazskyi

by CHRIS MICHELI posted 07.09.2026

Initiative measures proposed by voters and approved at a statewide election can make changes to the state Constitution or statutes. Statutory initiatives can be amended by another statutory initiative approved by the voters at a statewide election.

San Francisco judge blocks new cardroom regulations

The Commerce Casino, image by Steve Cukrov

by BRIAN JOSEPH posted 06.30.2026

A San Francisco Superior Court judge on Tuesday struck down Attorney General Rob Bonta’s controversial cardroom regulations, which would have limited the salons from offering their most popular games.