California State Legislature

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The California State Legislature is the state legislature of the U.S. state of California. It is a bicameral body consisting of the Senate and the Assembly. The legislature convenes at the California State Capitol in Sacramento.

Structure

The California State Legislature is composed of two houses:

• The Senate, which has 40 members.
• The Assembly, which has 80 members.

Leadership

The leadership of the California State Legislature includes:

• The President pro tempore of the Senate, currently Toni Atkins.
• The Speaker of the Assembly, currently Anthony Rendon.

Elections and Terms

Members of the Senate serve four-year terms, with half of the seats up for election every two years. Members of the Assembly serve two-year terms, with all seats up for election every two years. Both houses use a first-past-the-post voting system.

Sessions

The California State Legislature meets in regular session from December to August each year. Special sessions may be called by the Governor.

Functions

The primary function of the California State Legislature is to enact laws. It also has the power to propose amendments to the state constitution, approve the state budget, and confirm appointments made by the Governor.

Committees

The legislature operates through a system of committees, which handle specific areas such as finance, education, and health. Each house has its own set of committees, and there are also joint committees that include members from both houses.

Related Pages

• California State Senate
• California State Assembly
• Governor of California
• California State Capitol
• Constitution of California
• Politics of California