Lobbyist and author Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week in Sacramento.

Formal roles of Governor and Lt. Governor in lawmaking

Gov. Gavin Newsom & Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis

by CHRIS MICHELI posted 09.19.2024

Both the California Governor and the Lieutenant Governor have formal roles in the lawmaking process, despite the fact that this authority is granted to the legislative branch of state government pursuant to Article IV of the California Constitution.

Special Episode: Proposition 32 – Minimum Wage Increase

by CAPITOL WEEKLY STAFF posted 09.16.2024

CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: This episode of the podcast presents a discussion of Proposition 32, which would raise California’s Minimum Wage. The “Yes” side was presented by Saru Jayaraman of One Fair Wage. The “No” side was presented by Jot Condie of the California Restaurant Association. The moderator was Phil Willon of the Los Angeles Times.

Lobbyist and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.

Can the public be excluded from legislative committee hearings or floor sessions?

No access. Image by Mary Herron

by CHRIS MICHELI posted 09.12.2024

Some in the Capitol community believe there are unnecessary limitations on the public’s ability to access some of the committee hearings and floor sessions of the California Legislature. Are these limits on public participation permissible under state laws?

CALIFORNIA BALLOT FORUM: Experts spar over 2024 propositions and election impacts

Asm. James Gallagher speaks at Capitol Weekly's California Ballot Forum. California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks, left; Capitol Weekly editor Rich Ehisen, center. Photo by Joha Harrison, Capitol Weekly

by MOLLY JACOBY posted 09.11.2024

In the wake of Tuesday’s heated presidential debate, Capitol Weekly’s CALIFORNIA BALLOT FORUM: 2024 Election Preview brought together a diverse group of experts to discuss some of the most contentious issues on this year’s ballot: minimum wage, rent control, and penalties for theft and drug crimes.

Rising Stars: Dana Cruz, California Judicial Council

Dana Cruz. Photo by Scott Duncan, Capitol Weekly

by MOLLY JACOBY posted 09.10.2024

At 32 years old, Capitol Weekly Rising Star Dana Cruz has already served in the military, passed the California Bar Exam, and worked in all three branches of California State Government.

Catharine Baker and the New UC Student and Policy Center

by CAPITOL WEEKLY STAFF posted 09.09.2024

CAPITOL  WEEKLY PODCAST: Former California State Assemblymember and current Fair Political Practices Commissioner Catharine Baker has been appointed director of the newly opened University of California Student and Policy Center, UC’s hub in Sacramento, located just steps from the state capitol. Baker will lead public programming and outreach, aimed at introducing UC students and faculty into the capitol community – and vice versa.  She joined us to talk about her goals and priorities for her new position.  Plus – a DOOZY of a “Worst Week in California Politics!”

Lobbyist and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.

Capitol Spotlight: A legacy of public service continues for Yee family

Photo courtesy of Jacqui Nguyen

by LISA RENNER posted 09.05.2024

For the Yee family, service to California is a family tradition dating back seven generations. The legacy is now being carried on by one of its youngest members, Sarah Yee.