California 2023-2024 Regular Session

California Senate Bill SCA1

Introduced
1/30/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Introduced
1/30/23  
Introduced
1/30/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Refer
2/9/23  
Refer
5/9/23  
Engrossed
2/1/24  
Refer
5/9/23  
Refer
5/9/23  
Refer
6/10/24  
Engrossed
2/1/24  
Refer
6/26/24  
Refer
6/10/24  
Refer
6/10/24  
Passed
8/30/24  
Refer
6/26/24  
Enrolled
8/31/24  
Passed
8/30/24  
Passed
8/30/24  
Chaptered
9/10/24  
Enrolled
8/31/24  
Enrolled
8/31/24  
Chaptered
9/10/24  

Caption

Elections: recall of state officers.

Impact

The proposed changes reflected in SCA1 would centralize authority relating to the recall process and establish clearer regulations about vacancy succession for state officers. Importantly, the amendment would repeal a previous prohibition against officers undergoing recall from running for their position again in a special election, while still prohibiting them from being appointed back to their office. This has the potential to streamline the recall process, making it distinctly different from the current dual-function of recall and succession elections.

Summary

Senate Constitutional Amendment No. 1 (SCA1) proposes significant changes to the process of recalling state officers in California. The bill seeks to amend the state constitution to eliminate the procedure of electing a successor concurrently with a recall election. Instead, if a state officer is recalled, their position will remain vacant until it is filled according to established constitutional guidelines. This would require legislative action to amend how vacancies are handled following a recall, particularly for the governor, who would see their office filled by the Lieutenant Governor temporarily until further elections are held as necessary.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCA1 appears to be mixed, given the complexities of election laws and the emphasis on state governance structures. Supporters may argue that the bill promotes a more organized and coherent approach to handling state officer recalls, eliminating confusion regarding succession. Opponents, however, may express concern that eliminating the successor election removes voter choice and could potentially lead to less accountability in government.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention is the implications of removing the concurrent election for successors. Critics might view this as reducing democratic choice, as voters will no longer have the immediate option to elect someone new if an officer is recalled. Instead, the power dynamics shift towards maintaining a vacancy until appropriate procedures can be initiated, which may delay the ability to fill critical state roles.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA SCA6

Elections: recall of state officers.

CA SCA18

Elections: recalls.

CA SCA3

Elections: recalls.

CA SJR6

Proposing an amendment to the Oregon Constitution relating to elections for recalling public officers.

CA HB972

Elections; removal of officers, recall elections, petition for recall.

CA AB2582

Recall elections: local offices.

CA SB495

Elections; removal of officers, recall elections, application for recall petition.

CA SB495

Elections; removal of officers, recall elections, application for recall petition.

CA HB1185

Requirements For Recall Elections And Vacancies

CA HJR6

Recall Of Public Officers, Ca

Similar Bills

CA SCA6

Elections: recall of state officers.

CA SCA18

Elections: recalls.

CA SB152

Elections.

CA AB1495

Vacancy elections.

CA AB152

COVID-19 relief: supplemental paid sick leave.

CA AB485

Local government: economic development subsidies.

CA AB2325

Coordinated homelessness response: Office of the Interagency Council on Homelessness.

CA AB1234

Political Reform Act of 1974: contribution limitations.