​(May 8, 2012) A California Chamber of Commerce-supported bill that provides certainty for business by creating a predictable and easy-to-track implementation schedule for new regulations passed the Senate Appropriations Committee yesterday.

SB 1099 (Wright; D-Inglewood) provides that all regulations must go into effect quarterly on January 1, April 1, July 1, or October 1, while still allowing for the adoption of emergency regulations when necessary. Additionally, the bill would require the Office of Administrative Law to make available a list of proposed regulations awaiting implementation on its website.

This legislation is consistent with the goals of the CalChamber 2012 Renew Agenda and will help position California for economic recovery.

Each year, state agencies draft and implement numerous regulations that go into effect 30 days after being filed with the office of the Secretary of State. Keeping track of these regulations throughout the year presents a difficult challenge for California businesses, especially small businesses that employ small staffs and have limited resources. The current regulatory process often results in businesses being out of compliance and administrative penalties being levied.

SB 1099 addresses this issue by creating a single, reliable source for businesses to access and learn about any pending regulations. Additionally, the bill increases certainty for businesses by allowing them to predict and prepare for when pending regulations could take effect. SB 1099 increases transparency and is a step in the right direction.

Key Votes

SB 1099 passed the Senate Appropriations Committee on a vote of 6-0.

Ayes: Alquist (D-Santa Clara), Dutton (R-Rancho Cucamonga),  Kehoe (D-San Diego), Steinberg (D-Sacramento), Price (D-Los Angeles), Walters (R-Laguna Niguel).

Absent, Abstaining, Not Voting: Lieu (D-Torrance).

The bill now moves on for consideration by the entire Senate.

Staff Contact: Marc Burgat