How can I testify at a hearing?
Anyone wanting to comment on the support or opposition of a bill on our agenda is welcome. There is a time during the presentation of each bill when anyone supporting or opposing the bill is asked to come forward, at separate times. We take two people to testify for two minutes each. After that, we ask that anyone else wishing to be recorded on the record state only name, their organization, and their position on the bill.
When is the deadline for submitting support or opposition letters?
The Tuesday prior to the Tuesday the bill is set for hearing. Although we offer a committee public email, any support or opposition letters sent to our email are not guaranteed to be reflected in the committee bill analysis. Please feel free to mail or fax us your letters. (Fax is 916-323-2232)
It is not the policy of the committee to make sure your letters get to all the members of the committee. You are encouraged to fax or mail your letter to each member individually. Please see the “Member Roster” link on our home page for full contact details on each member of the committee.
We cannot reflect the support or opposition on any bill in the analysis without a hard copy of the letter. Again, letters that are received via email, fax or mail are all acceptable.
In what order will the bills be heard on hearing day?
We hear our bills in file order. As is customary, any members of the committee that have bills on the agenda go at the end of other author’s presentations.
When does the committee have to have amendments on a bill being heard at the next bill hearing?
The amendments must be in leg counsel form and submitted to the committee no later than close of business the Tuesday prior to the Tuesday the bill is set for hearing. We need the original signed by the author, plus 10 copies for a total of 11.
How can I get an audio or video copy of a committee hearing?
All committee hearings are audio recorded. If you need a copy of the hearing, please call the committee directly and talk to Patty our Committee Assistant. Sometimes the hearings are televised. If you would like to request a video copy of a hearing, please contact Senate TV directly 916-651-1531, there is a small fee. How can I make an appointment to meet with one of the committee consultants?
Please call the committee’s direct line (916-651-4116) and ask to speak with the specific consultant. Each consultant schedules their own meetings, if they are not available immediately, please leave a message in their voicemail. You are also welcome to “drop-by” at your convenience, however, availability cannot be guaranteed.
When are the analyses available to the public?
Most often our analyses are available by Friday afternoon prior to the Tuesday hearing. The analyses are available electronically on www.leginfo.ca.gov. Hard copies are available outside our committee office in the Capitol, Room 4035. If you would like an electronic copy, feel free to call Patty and she can email you one.
When do Urgency measures take effect?
Immediately after the Governor signs them.
