Micheli Files
The enrolled bill rule in California
Image ChinnapongWhat is the enrolled bill in California and why do lawmakers care about it? Lobbyist and law professor explains it all for you in today’s Micheli Files.
Image ChinnapongMicheli Files
Phrases often heard on the floors of the California Legislature
Image by Capitol Weekly. A lot of terms and phrases get used in the Capitol. In determining what these phrases actually mean, we can consult the Legislative Counsel’s Glossary of Terms.
Micheli Files
California Legislature’s support agencies
Image by Nicholas Klein. There are several important entities that support the work of the California Legislature. But what do they all do? Capitol lobbyist, McGeorge law professor and regular Capitol Weekly contributor Chris Micheli explains it all for you in this week’s Micheli Files.
Micheli Files
Separation of powers doctrine in California
Image by Alexander Sikov. We’ve all heard about the separation of powers kin government, but what does it actually mean? In today’s Micheli Files intrepid Capitol lobbyist and McGeorge law professor lays it out for you.
Micheli Files
More observations on California bill drafting
California Assembly. Photo by Capitol Weekly. In his continuing review of 2026 legislation in the California Legislature, intrepid legal scholar, lobbyist and law professor Chris Micheli offers some additional observations on the dos and don’ts of drafting legislation.
Micheli Files
General versus special statutes
California law, image by Vitalii VodolazskyiCapitol observers will come across bills that delineate between general or special (also called local) statutes. So, what is a general statute versus a special or local statute? Capitol lobbyist and law professor Chris Micheli explains it all in today’s Micheli Files.
Micheli Files
California Legislature can negotiate measures off the ballot
The California State Capitol building in Sacramento, CA. Image by jsolieCan the California Legislature actually negotiate measures off the statewide ballot? If so, how can that be done?
Micheli Files
The suspense file process in the California Legislature
The California state Capitol at dusk. (Photo: Karin Hildebrand Lau, via Shutterstock)Today is a big day in the Legislature – suspense file hearings in the Senate and Assembly Appropriations Committees. But what exactly is the suspense file procedure? We’re glad you asked. Allow Capitol Weekly contributor, lobbyist and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli explain all for you.
Micheli Files
Should state contracts or grants be exempt from oversight laws?
California State Senate floor session. Photo by Capitol Weekly.Should state contracts or grants be exempt from oversight laws? Our intrepid Chris Micheli weighs in.
Micheli Files
Appropriations measures in the California Legislature
Image by Capitol WeeklyWhat is an “appropriations measure?” Unfortunately, California law does not define this term. But not to fear – Chris Micheli is here to help.