What is the general rule for the application of a newly added or amended statute? In most instances, legislation applies prospectively, meaning after the law has been enacted and takes effect. What does a retroactive bill or retroactive statutory language...
What is “per diem”? It is a Latin term meaning “for the day” and is used to describe the payment of expenses for elected and appointed officials. What is the authority for paying legislators’ expenses? Pursuant to Section 4(b) of...
How many different types of legislature measures are there? In total, there are eleven different types of measures used in the California Legislature. What is the most common legislative measure? The most widely used measure is a bill. What is...
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...
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,...
A few times per year in the California Legislature, readers may see language that states “this act does not constitute a change in, but is declaratory of, existing law.” What is the purpose of this language and should these types...
What are the types of rulemaking in California? According to the Office of Administrative Law (OAL), the two types of rulemaking procedures that a state agency can pursue are regular or emergency. What is basically required for regular rulemaking? The...