The legislative process
Equity does not happen by accident. It is shaped through decisions about laws, budgets, and priorities. Understanding the legislative process is one way communities can protect their rights, expand opportunity, and build lasting economic security.
The Legislative Process & Equity
At CalEquity, we believe public education about how government works is essential to meaningful participation in democracy. This page breaks down the California legislative process and explains how community voices fit into it.
Why the Legislative Process Matters
State laws affect everyday life. They shape access to housing, wages, worker protections, disaster recovery resources, education, and public services. When communities are shut out of the process, inequity grows.
When communities are informed and engaged, policy can move toward fairness and accountability.
Equity advances when more people understand how decisions are made and how to influence them.
Who Makes Laws in California
California’s state laws are created by elected representatives in two bodies:
The State Assembly
The State Senate
These legislators represent communities across the state and are responsible for proposing, debating, and voting on laws. Their decisions directly impact local communities.
How a Bill Becomes a Law
The legislative process follows a series of steps. Each step is an opportunity for public input and advocacy.
Step 1: A Bill Is Introduced
A legislator introduces a bill to address a specific issue. Many bills are informed by community concerns, advocacy efforts, research, and lived experience.
Step 2: Committee Review
Bills are reviewed by policy committees focused on specific issues such as housing, labor, education, or public safety. Committees hold hearings where community members, advocates, and experts can have a voice in the process.
Step 3: Budget and Fiscal Review
If a bill has financial impacts, it is reviewed to determine costs and funding.
Step 4: Floor Votes
If approved by committees, the bill is voted on by the full Assembly or Senate.
Step 5: Review by the Second House
The bill then goes through the same process in the other legislative chamber. Both chambers must agree on the final version.
Step 6: Governor’s Decision
Once passed by both chambers, the bill goes to the Governor, who can sign it into law or veto it.
Where Community Voice Fits In
Community engagement is not limited to elections. People can influence legislation by:
Sharing their lived experiences with legislators and staff
Submitting letters of support or opposition
Participating in hearings and public comment
Meeting with elected officials
Organizing coalitions and collective advocacy campaigns
These actions help shape laws so they reflect the real needs of the communities they are meant to serve.
The Budget Is a Policy Choice
The state budget determines how resources are allocated. It reflects the values and priorities of our government.
Advancing equity means paying attention not only to what laws say, but how they are funded and implemented.
How CalEquity Engages the Process
CalEquity supports communities by making the legislative process understandable and accessible. Our work includes:
Public education on bills and policy issues
Nonpartisan political education and civic engagement
Advocacy toolkits and letter writing campaigns
Support for community organizations navigating policy systems
Partnerships that center equity in legislative outcomes
We believe equity grows
when people
have the knowledge and tools
to engage power directly.
Moving From Information to Action
Understanding the legislative process is a starting point. Taking action is how change happens.
Whether it is advocating for housing protections, disaster recovery resources, or workers rights, informed participation helps ensure policies serve the communities most impacted.
CalEquity is committed to supporting that participation every step of the way.