Legislature Archives - Page 3 of 6

Voting on a Referendum

December 6, 2019 6:45 amDecember 6, 2019 6:41 am

There are a few unique aspects of a referendum in California, which is one of three forms of direct democracy in this state. The referendum is set forth in the California Constitution, in Article II, Section 9, which provides: “The...

Separation of Powers Doctrine in California

November 22, 2019 8:18 amNovember 22, 2019 8:21 am

Separation of powers – what is it and what does it mean? Essentially, the powers of government are provided to separate branches of government to operate. These powers are set forth in the California Constitution and are granted to the...

California Legislature’s Organization and Structure

November 20, 2019 7:41 amNovember 20, 2019 7:44 am

The organization and structure of the California Legislature is established by the California Constitution, specifically in Article IV. Half a dozen sections of Article 4 relate to the organization and structure of the Legislature. Section 1 provides specifically that “The...

Regular vs. Special Sessions in the California Legislature

October 23, 2019 5:03 amOctober 22, 2019 10:01 pm

The California Legislature can meet in regular, special or joint sessions. A “session” is the designated period of time in which the Legislature meets. A “joint” session, which can occur in a regular or special session, is one in which...

Amending or Revising the California Constitution

October 18, 2019 6:01 amOctober 17, 2019 7:09 am

The Constitution of the State of California, originally adopted in 1849, sets forth the powers, duties and functions of California state government. It is one of the longest constitutions in the world at over 100 pages in length, which is...

Challenges to Lawmaking in California

September 25, 2019 8:07 amSeptember 25, 2019 8:17 am

Individuals and groups engaged in California’s lawmaking process may find several challenges in their legislative endeavors. There are institutional challenges, as well as political ones, that complicate the legislative process and that must be overcome to achieve a successful outcome...

California Governor’s Role in the Legislative Process

September 18, 2019 6:05 amSeptember 17, 2019 8:08 pm

California’s Governor is a key player in the legislative process, even though the bulk of legislation is done by the Legislature. It is important to appreciate the various roles that the state’s chief executive plays in this process. Some of...