No access. Image by Mary HerronSome 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?
West Hollywood Homelessness Wild Tents Camp. Image by welcomiaOPINION – The problem of homeless encampments is completely out of control, and so I applaud Gov. Gavin Newson’s recent strong executive action, seeking to compel local governments to deal with the intractable issue, particularly now that the U.S. Supreme Court has given the legal green light to do so.
Photo courtesy of Jacqui NguyenFor 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.
Offshore wind farm at sunset. Image by Bjoern WylezichOPINION – With a recent vote by the California Public Utilities Commission to authorize purchase of up to 7.6 gigawatts of offshore wind energy, California is increasingly committed to a plan to pursue renewable energy offshore. The success of this endeavor hinges on a robust scientific understanding of the technology’s potential impacts.
Image by GajusOPINION – As a former foster youth who is also transgender, finding a home where I felt safe was a struggle for most of my life. Governor Newsom has a chance to ensure that youth who are transitioning out of foster care have the safety of a home where they can be themselves by signing a bill headed to his desk, AB 2802 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego).
California courts, image by NanoStockkMembers of the state and federal judiciary branches play a role in the California lawmaking process as a part of our government’s system of “checks and balances.” When California statutes or regulations are legally challenged, for example, then the state or federal court that makes a determination establishes a policy for the state.
Image by WallentineLawmakers have sent Gov. Gavin Newsom hundreds of bills to be acted on before the end of the month. Here are a few of those measures he must consider.
Image by welcomeinsideOPINION – When asked what issues Californians are most worried about, you will almost always hear about the cost of housing. That’s why such a broad and diverse group of housing advocates, developers, lenders, builders, housing management experts and non-profit organizations have joined together in opposition to AB 3190.
California State Capitol dome at dusk. Image by WallentineLawmakers are rapidly filling up Gov. Gavin Newsom’s September dance card, sending him scores of bills before they adjourn on Saturday. Here’s a list of some of the ones from yesterday that caught our eye.
Image by Sparky2000Under a longstanding doctrine known as legislative immunity, legislators are generally immune from civil liability for their official acts. On the other hand, a derivative doctrine, called the legislative privilege, creates a privilege against giving evidence on official legislative acts.