Image by SmileStudioAP via iStock.While Sacramento’s elite firms generate enviable revenues in the millions of dollars, they face an underappreciated challenge as moneymaking businesses: finding new clients.
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Shelter dog. Image by AwaylGl via iStock.For most animal lovers, their dogs, cats or other four-legged critters are viewed as nothing less than valued members of the family. But in cases where animals instead suffer abuse bad enough to be forcibly removed from the home, they also become evidence that can keep them legally isolated and unavailable for adoption for months or even years. Thanks to a bill recently signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, that won’t be the case for much longer.
The Assembly chamber at the state Capitol in Sacramento. (Photo: Felix Lipov, via Shutterstock)In reviewing some of the bills on Governor Newsom’s Desk after the conclusion of the 2026 California Legislative Session, I have come across a number of examples of bill language that I believe is in need of improvement.
Kelly Calkin, Calkin Public AffairsCAPITOL WEEKLY PODCAST: Kelly Calkin heads Calkin Public Affairs, a Sacramento-based firm that advises some of the biggest names in California politics. Calkin has a different background from many of his public affairs colleagues – he cut his teeth working for Labor, first at the California Building and Construction Trades State Council then for the California Professional Firefighters. He launched CPA thirteen years ago, but “refreshed” and expanded the firm in 2025.
Image by patpitchaya, iStock images.Hydropower plays a critical role in maintaining both affordable, reliable electricity, and water flow and distribution.
Image by Attila Adam, iStock Images.AB 1842 and AB 1847 show what can happen when lawmakers and stakeholders work collaboratively through difficult policy questions.
Gavin Newsom. Photo by AP. The deadline for Gov. Gavin Newsom to address the hundreds of bills sent his way has come and gone. Here are a few tidbits from the bill signing period to note while we wait to see if the governor calls a special session on AI.
Lobbyist, author and McGeorge law professor Chris Micheli offers a quick look at what’s coming up this week under the Capitol Dome.
Image by Soulmemoria, iStock Images.As SB 54 moves into implementation, California policymakers have left existing policy conflicts unresolved.