California Constitution – Page 9

Frequently Asked Questions about Permissible Closed Sessions of the Legislature

March 22, 2024 2:30 amMarch 22, 2024 2:31 am

Does the state Constitution provide when the California Legislature can meet in closed session? Yes, it does so in Article IV, Section 7(c). What does the California Constitution provide regarding closed session of the Legislature? There are specified instances, despite...

Frequently Asked Questions about Governor’s Reorganization Plans

February 16, 2024 2:44 amFebruary 16, 2024 6:58 am

What is the Governor’s reorganization authority? The California Constitution grants the Governor, subject to approval by the Legislature, the authority to “assign and reorganize functions among executive officers and agencies and their employees.” What is the name of this authority?...

Frequently Asked Questions about Amending or Revising the California Constitution

February 15, 2024 7:45 amFebruary 15, 2024 7:45 am

What is required for an amendment to the state Constitution? It requires passage of a state ballot measure approved by a majority vote of the state’s electorate. Who can propose amendments to the state Constitution? Ballot propositions can be proposed...

California State Capitol dome shines against blue sky

Frequently Asked Questions about Other Constitutional Provisions and the Legislature

February 10, 2024 2:45 amFebruary 10, 2024 2:46 am

Most of the provisions of the California Constitution concerning the Legislature are found in Article IV, Sections 1 thru 28. Nonetheless, there are a number of provisions found in other articles of the state Constitution affecting the duties and powers...

Frequently Asked Questions about Bagley-Keene Open Meetings Law

January 28, 2024 2:45 amJanuary 28, 2024 2:46 am

What are the three main open meetings laws in California? These open meeting acts are generally referred to as “Bagley-Keene” (applying to state entities), “LOMA” (applying to the Legislature), and the “Brown Act” (applying to local entities). When was the...

Frequently Asked Questions about Legislative Revolving Door Limitations in California

January 13, 2024 2:35 amJanuary 13, 2024 2:36 am

What is the “revolving door”? When legislative or executive branch officials leave government service, it is often referred to as the “revolving door” between the public and private sectors. Are elected members of the legislative branch subject to the “revolving...

Frequently Asked Questions about the Governor’s Pardon and Commutation Powers

January 12, 2024 2:35 amJanuary 12, 2024 2:36 am

Do the federal and state chief executives have pardon power? Yes, both the United States President and California’s Governor have the power to pardon. Where is the President’s pardon power found? The President’s pardon power is contained in Article II,...