Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh announced on May 6 that Senate Bill 1308, which would require members and employees of the California State Legislature to complete a course on the United States and California Constitutions, was held in the Senate Judiciary Committee.
The bill aimed to strengthen understanding of constitutional principles among lawmakers and staff. Supporters say this knowledge is essential for ensuring legislation aligns with both state and federal constitutions.
“Every member and employee of the Legislature takes an oath to support and defend both the United States and California Constitutions. SB 1308 would have helped us uphold that oath by improving our understanding of constitutional principles,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “This bill was not about partisan politics or debating interpretations of the Constitution. At its core, SB 1308 focused on one crucial goal: establishing robust frameworks for government operations and reinforcing our understanding of the limits of our authority as elected representatives. It is deeply disappointing that the committee failed to recognize this fundamental purpose.”
SB 1308 proposed that legislators and staff complete a course within six months of a new legislative session covering topics such as federalism, preemption, civil rights, and separation of powers. Those licensed to practice law in California or who could demonstrate their knowledge through an evaluation would be exempt from taking the course.
David A. Carrillo, Executive Director at the California Constitution Center at UC Berkeley School of Law, wrote in support: “Our state legislature is the creative element of government, and it can and often does stretch the limits of what’s possible. But to bend the rules, you need to know what they are, and with fewer lawyers in elected office these days, it’s only smart to give your colleagues at least a primer on the constitutional framework before they start playing with live ammunition.”
David L. Faigman, Chancellor & Dean at University of California College of Law San Francisco said: “Ensuring that proposed legislation aligns with the U.S. and California Constitutions is essential to protecting the legislative process and preserving the separation of powers… Especially today, educational opportunities to deepen understanding of democracy, constitutional rights, and rule of law are critical.”
Sixty letters supporting SB 1308 were submitted ahead of its hearing in committee.
“Public service brings both power and responsibility. Studying the Constitutions we have sworn to uphold shows respect for rule of law and people we serve,” concluded Senator Ochoa Bogh.
