In a legislative session characterized by a flurry of activity, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is faced with the task of reviewing over 800 bills to decide whether to sign them into law or veto them by the following week. Critics argue that the abundance of potential new legislation is indicative of the state government’s tendency towards heavy-handed governance. California, which is already known as the most regulated state in the country, saw over 4,400 bills introduced for the 2023-2024 term, surpassing the 4,100 proposed in the previous term.
State lawmakers have been criticized for introducing bills that serve as “vanity projects” without necessarily addressing pressing issues. With the governor likely to sign most of the bills, California’s legal framework is becoming increasingly complex, posing challenges for citizens and small businesses and raising compliance costs. According to public policy expert Lance Christensen, the sheer volume of laws and regulations in California makes it impossible for individuals to fully understand or comply with them, ultimately leading to unknowing violations of the law on a daily basis.
Newsom has already signed a series of public safety bills aimed at combatting organized retail theft and addressing the crisis of mental health among young people. However, he has vetoed several progressive bills, including those related to aid for illegal immigrants and a reparations package for Black residents. Newsom’s veto rate last year was around 15%, similar to previous years, with his veto rate in 2021 falling under 8%. The cost of drafting a bill in California can reach $30,000, excluding more complex legislation that requires additional time and resources, resulting in economic resources being diverted to understanding the legislation rather than complying with it.
The governor has also signed measures meant to expedite the process of certain initiatives, such as housing development and environmental policies. Newsom’s rapid response team emphasizes that the governor is deliberate in his actions, focusing on solving problems and supporting Californians while recognizing that not every issue requires new legislation. Newsom’s legislative agenda has drawn attention for his efforts to address key issues facing the state while also being mindful of the economic implications and budgetary constraints. By signing bills that streamlining government processes and addressing critical concerns, Newsom aims to strike a balance between governance and resource allocation in California.
