California Legislature – Page 35

Frequently Asked Questions about the Single Subject Rule and Initiatives

May 2, 2024 2:30 amMay 2, 2024 2:31 am

Is there a single subject rule for initiatives? Yes, Section 8(d) of Article II provides, “An initiative measure embracing more than one subject may not be submitted to the electors or have any effect.” Is there a single subject rule...

It’s Kentucky Derby Time For California Assemblyman Flora

May 1, 2024 2:55 amMay 1, 2024 2:56 am

It’s Kentucky Derby time! Grab a Mint Julep, don a wide-brimmed Organza hat trimmed in Peacock feathers, iron your white linen dress or suit and prepare for the 150th Kentucky Derby, Saturday, May 4, 2024. Oh wait. We are in...

Ringside: The Case for Oil Drilling in California

April 30, 2024 2:55 amApril 30, 2024 2:56 am

The regulatory war on oil production in California is well documented. The motivations of California’s state legislature in some cases may be well intentioned, but the regulations coming down right now are designed to destroy the oil industry in the...

Legislative Intent Does Not Equate to a Mandate

April 27, 2024 2:30 amApril 27, 2024 2:31 am

I am not sure if it is because of the budget situation and a desire to reduce costs for a bill, or a misunderstanding about intent versus statutory language, but those involved in the California Legislature and its legislative process...

California’s Red Ink is Negatively Impacting Municipalities Large and Small

April 23, 2024 11:03 amApril 23, 2024 11:03 am

The State of California is hemorrhaging red ink with a massive budget shortfall. The non-partisan Legislative Analyst Office estimates the deficit at $73 billion; Governor Gavin Newsom claims to be optimistic and pegs the shortfall at $38 billion. A gap of $30...

Does a Bill Need Statutory Construction Guidance?

April 22, 2024 3:00 pmApril 22, 2024 3:01 pm

Have you seen the following sentence in a California bill or in a statute: “This act shall be liberally construed to effectuate its purposes.” Why is this phrase needed? Shouldn’t that be obvious guidance to a court when interpreting a...

Statutes Deferring to Executive Branch

April 21, 2024 3:00 pmApril 21, 2024 3:01 pm

There are times in statutes when the legislative branch of state government grants authority to the executive branch and, at other times, the Legislature restricts the authority of the executive branch. And, on occasion, the Legislature defers to the executive...