Image by BrianAJackson via iStock. There have been many court decisions over the past one hundred plus years interpreting key provisions of the Government Code. The following cases highlight some of the key decisions interpreting these statutory provisions related to the legislative process.
The Assembly chamber at the state Capitol in Sacramento. (Photo: Felix Lipov, via Shutterstock)In reviewing some of the bills on Governor Newsom’s Desk after the conclusion of the 2026 California Legislative Session, I have come across a number of examples of bill language that I believe is in need of improvement.
Image by NanoStockk, via iStockThe following provides commentary regarding the specific provisions of Article XVIII of the California Constitution, which deal with amending and revising the state Constitution.
Image by Gwengoat via iStock.An example of how helpful well-drafted legislative findings and declarations can be in California legislation comes from a United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit decision in Welch v. Brown (834 F.3d 1041 (9th Cir. 2016)).
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Image by Sundry Photography. Today’s edition of the Micheli Files provides commentary regarding the specific provisions of Article III of the California Constitution, which deal with the State of California.
Image by Png-StudioLike other legislatures around the country, the California Legislature has a myriad of internal rules. These include separate rules for the Assembly and Senate, as well as Joint Rules applicable to both houses.
California State Capitol Building in Sacramento, California. In reviewing legislation during the last month of the 2026 California Legislative Session, I have come across a number of examples of excellent bill drafting and wanted to draw attention to them to serve as guides in the upcoming 2027 Legislative Session.
The Great Seal of the State of California on the floor of the State Capitol Building. Image by Sundry Photography.When interpreting ambiguous statutes in California, the courts of this state may examine the legislative history of an enacted statute in order to try and effectuate the intent of the Legislature. In such a case, it is important for legislators, staff, and interest groups to better understand the need to provide adequate legislative history.
California Assembly Chambers. Photo by Capitol Weekly. With the final weeks of Session upon us, several procedural items that regularly occur on the Floors of the California Legislature may be in order. Today intrepid Capitol lobbyist, law professor and regular Capitol Weekly contributor Chris Micheli offers insights into understanding the session’s closing moments.
California Assembly Chambers, photo by Capitol Weekly. The California Legislature’s combined 57 standing committees (32 in the Assembly and 25 in the Senate) have addressed 1,846 bills (1,263 ABs and 583 SBs) during the 2026 Legislative Session.