The legislative process explained: Bill signing deadlines

CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: Staffers, journalists and even lobbyists can get confused trying to understand the very specific processes and deadlines guiding the signing – or veto – of a bill, by the Governor. How long does the Governor have to sign or veto a bill? Does the 12 day timeline include weekends and holidays? When does the 30-day timeline start? And what happens when the Legislature adjourns?

Our guest today answers all of these questions and explains the process. Lobbyist Chris Micheli, is the author of several books on lobbying, teaches at University of the Pacific, and is a frequent contributor to Capitol Weekly. He explains the bill signing calendar, and looks at what can happen when things go wrong.

And, if you’re caught bringing a knife to a gunfight, he might be just the guy you want on your side. Plus: Who had the Worst Week in California Politics?

:43 Bill deadlines and the End of Sesson

2:03 12 Davs vs. 30 Days

3:35 The bill jacket

4:33 The timing of the 12 day window

5:39 The “Pocket Signature”

10:19 The 30 Day Rule

15:15 How did the system get set up this way?

16:45 In CA, about 40% of bills become law

17:57 How does CA compare to other states on amount of legislation?

22:01 our most quotable governor

23:02 An expert on CA Knife Law

33:51 #WWCA