News
It might be a bit of an understatement to say the November 5 election is clouded by uncertainty. But there is one thing we know for certain: two years after the most expensive ballot campaign in U.S. history, California voters will not be considering another sports betting measure in 2024. Two more proposed sports wagering initiatives were submitted to the Attorney General’s office last fall. But the effort was abandoned, ensuring that the issue will not come before voters this year, according to tribal leaders.
Podcast
CAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: We’re joined today by longtime journalist, and co-founder of CalMatters, David Lesher. Last year David stepped down as editor-in-chief to direct a new project at CalMatters: Digital Democracy. Using the latest technology, including AI, Digital Democracy will gather a tremendous amount of data from California’s state government: “every word uttered in public hearings, every dollar given to a politician, every bill introduced, every vote taken and more.”
Analysis
Lobbyist and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.
Opinion
OPINION – If you’re like us, you’re inspired by the natural world and eager to see California’s beautiful mountains, forests, and lakes protected for future generations. You also might be surprised to hear that the health and survival of these places depends on one species more than most: beavers. Put simply, beavers are our partners in protecting and restoring California.
Micheli Files
California Government Code Section 11350 provides that any interested person may obtain a judicial declaration regarding the validity of any regulation or order of repeal by bringing an action for declaratory relief in superior court in this state in accordance with the Code of Civil Procedure.
Opinion
OPINION – In a well-intentioned move advertised to thwart scammers, some legislators in Sacramento are trying to impose criminal penalties on thousands of legitimate businesses which help veterans obtain benefits. California’s Senate Bill 1124 undermines the service of veterans like me because it will limit our options on who can help us file claims.
Capitol Spotlight
Don Andrews is a proud family man with a successful side hobby as a professional poker player. He started playing tournaments with a $300 windfall in the late 1990s and has been playing off that money ever since.
Opinion
OPINION – The proposed design of the building to replace the historic (now demolished) Capitol Annex is an all-glass façade that is not just historically incompatible, but a dangerous compromise of security, especially for the children and visitors who frequent the Capitol grounds. As someone who knows a thing or two about buildings and calls California home, I’m seriously worried.
Loyal Terry, photo by Scott Duncan Photography
