Analysis

CA120: Laphonza Butler – Will she or won’t she?

Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) is seen at the U.S. Capitol Oct. 4, 2023. (Francis Chung/POLITICO via AP Images)

Now that newly appointed Senator Laphonza Butler has been sworn in, the question on the lips of all political insiders is “will she, or won’t she?” But the question isn’t really that simple.

Micheli Files

Can legislation affect pending litigation?

Litigation image by Brian A Jackson

MICHELI FILES: As a general rule (sometimes referred to as a “custom and practice”), the California Legislature prefers not to enact legislation that specifically makes a determination one way or the other regarding ongoing litigation that is pending at the same time that a piece of legislation is being considered.

News

Stem cell agency launches research into mental health disorders

Gene therapy, image by Natali _ Mis

California launched a $111 million research program last week aimed at developing genetic tools and treatments to help the millions of persons afflicted with mental disorders ranging from autism to schizophrenia. Dubbed ReMIND, it is the largest such concerted effort in the nation.

Podcast

WOMEN’S HEALTH: Health Equity

CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: This Special Episode of the Capitol Weekly Podcast was recorded live at Capitol Weekly’s Conference on Women’s Health which was held on Thursday, September 28, 2023.

News

Questions dog new UC Board of Regents appointee

Gregory Sarris, image from Becoming Story YouTube book trailer

An esteemed author and scholar as well as a long-time tribal leader, Greg Sarris would seem to be a natural fit on the UC Board of Regents. But scratch below the surface and you’ll find that Sarris has led such a controversial life that he could face scrutiny when his appointment is reviewed sometime next year.

News

In Snark We Trust: Speaker SNAFU

It’s an ill wind that blows no good, and if yesterday’s proceedings in the House were bad for now-former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, (and for any hoped-for stability in DC’s lower house) they were certainly a boon for the wits among the representative from Bakersfield’s enemies.

News

Dianne Feinstein: A remembrance

Dianne Feinstein, image courtesy of AP

There are people who believe Feinstein’s legacy will come down to her final few years in office, when she became frail, sometimes confused, and suffered from memory issues. Those people don’t know Dianne Feinstein. She is much more than a footnote.

Podcast

WOMEN’S HEALTH: Reproductive Health

CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: This Special Episode of the Capitol Weekly Podcast was recorded live at Capitol Weekly’s Conference on Women’s Health which was held on Thursday, September 28, 2023

This is Panel 1 – REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Micheli Files

Practical tips for working with Finance

Cooperation image by metamorworks

MICHELI FILES: In talking with former staff from the Department of Finance (DOF) the past few weeks, the following are the key practical tips that were shared with me for those working with the staff members of the Governor’s Finance Department. While some of these recommendations may seem obvious, many of them bear repeating.

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