Micheli Minute
The Micheli Minute, September 22, 2025
Lobbyist, author and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.
Micheli Files
Considering vetoed bills in California
Image by mapo. Now that the California Legislature has concluded its 2025 Session, and Governor Newsom is working through whether to sign or veto the bills that reached his Desk this year, I pose the question whether and how any vetoed bills are considered by legislators?
Podcast
Ancient history (and much, much more) with Mike Gatto
CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: Author, podcaster, gadfly and former Assemblymember Mike Gatto joins us to talk about the state of politics, Roman history, and the experience of being a crime victim… plus so much more.
Analysis
Redistricting effort reveals how politics is evolving
Governor Newsom, flanked by Democratic allies, announces his push for the Election Rigging Response Act. Photo by Capitol WeeklyGov. Gavin Newsom’s redistricting push – and the similar action in Texas that begat California’s effort – illustrates that in American politics today none of the old rules seem to apply. How else would you explain a savvy career politician with a genuine shot at the White House openly advocating to disenfranchise the registered voters of a rival party?
News
$23 Billion Scientific Research Program Proposed in California
A scientist studies a beeker containing cell samples at the Gates Center for Regenerative Medicine, a series of laboratories working with stem-cell biology at the University of Colorado's Anschutz Medical Campus in Denver. Gates Frontiers Fund Colorado Collection within the Carol M. Highsmith Archive, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division.
California would see the creation of a $23 billion state research agency under legislation proposed late last week, a new enterprise that could threaten the existence of the state’s 20-year-old stem cell and gene therapy program.
Capitol Briefs
Gov announces new CARB Chair; Lauren Sanchez to replace Liane Randolph
Screencap of video posted on Lauren Sanchez' X accountGov. Newsom announced today that he has named Lauren Sanchez as the new Chair of the California Air Resources Board (CARB), replacing Liane Randolph who will retire on September 30. Sanchez has been Gov. Newsom’s Senior Advisor for Climate since 2021.
News
AB 325: Does it hurt or help consumers?
Image by Sandwish. For some, a common pricing algorithm is merely a good use of technology that allows a company to simplify its pricing structure. To others, it is a surreptitious way for businesses to get around federal and state antitrust laws that bar them from participating in price fixing schemes.
Micheli Minute
The Micheli Minute, September 15, 2025
Lobbyist and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.
CA120
CA120: Is Newsom mounting a turnaround?
Gov. Gavin Newsom. Photo by Associated PressLooking at the last month, it seems Newsom is capturing attention with his new media strategy, and building momentum with his push for mid-decade redistricting. Of course, much of this excitement and enthusiasm has been online and in podcasts – both of which can be different than what is translating down to real California voters.
Micheli Files
California courts and effective versus operative dates
Image by Sutthicha Weerawong. What is the difference between a law’s “effective date” and its “operative date”? A common definition of “effective date” is when the new law is “on the books.” A common definition of “operative date” is when the new law becomes operative or is implemented (which commonly, but mistakenly, is described as when the new law is “in effect”).