Image by Adao via ShutterstockANALYSIS – There is often confusion regarding effective versus operative dates. Specifically, Capitol observers often inquire when a statute actually “takes effect.” When it takes effect can be different than when the statute is operative.
Capitol and flag, by Karin Hildebrand LauANALYSIS – Around the country, and at the federal level, there is an ongoing debate among legislative lawyers whether a severability clause must be included in legislation.
The California state Capitol in Sacramento. (Photo: Karin Hildebrand Lau, via Shutterstock)Each bill in the California Legislature contains certain, required features such as an enacting clause, a title, the author’s name, a bill number, and the Legislative Counsel’s Digest, among other provisions.
Image by Niyazz via shutterstockMany questions can be raised when determining how intent statements, legislative findings and declarations should be viewed, particularly by the judicial branch of state government.
California Governor's sealCalifornia’s Governor has three options when the Legislature sends the Governor a bill: Sign it; veto it; or, allow the bill to become law without the Governor’s signature.
FILE - This combination of photos shows California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaking in Sacramento, Calif., on June 24, 2022, left, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaking in Sioux Center, Iowa, May 13, 2023, right. (AP Photo, File)While mostly political, the feud between California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis occasionally veers into the personal.
California Governor's sealHere are some practical tips that were shared with me for those working with the staff members of the Governor’s Legislative Unit.
California Governor's sealJust as with other bills that the Governor may veto, he or she must explain the reason for the line-item veto and follow the same process used for other vetoed bills
Image by DedMityay via ShutterstockDoes California have to adopt a “balanced budget”? The short answer is yes. But there are several interesting aspects to this legal requirement.
Image by Adao via ShutterstockAbout a quarter of this country’s legislatures, including California, limits the number of bill introductions by their elected officials.