Commission Process

Commission Meetings

    The Commission studies topics assigned by the Legislature. The Commission’s deliberations occur at public meetings held several times a year. See the current agenda for the time and location of the Commission's next meeting, as well as links to the staff materials.

Public Participation

    Public participation is encouraged at all stages of the Commission’s study process. At the commencement of a new study, the staff reaches out to groups and individuals anticipated to have an interest and expertise in the study and invites their participation. Interested parties are also encouraged to add themselves to the Commission’s electronic notice list for each study. Public comments are welcome in writing and in person or via teleconference.

Background Studies/Staff Memoranda

    A Commission study may either begin with a background memorandum prepared by the staff or a consultant retained by the Commission who is a specialist in the field. The staff memoranda may include background and discussion of issues, research, analyses of public comments, and draft legislation. The staff memoranda typically serve as a starting point for Commission deliberations.

Tentative Recommendation/Report

    After making its preliminary decisions on a study, the Commission will direct the staff to draft a Tentative Recommendation or Report. A Commission “Report” does not contain proposed legislation, while a “Recommendation” does. A Tentative Recommendation or Report is subject to revision based on public comments received, or for other reasons the Commission finds persuasive, during a specified comment period.

Final Recommendation/Report and Legislation

    After considering any comments and finalizing revisions to its Tentative Recommendation or Report, the Commission votes on a Final Report or Recommendation, which is distributed to the Legislature and published on the Commission's website. The Legislature may introduce legislation based on a Recommendation, but the Commission may not advocate for or against it, pursuant to Government Code Section 8288

Handbook of Commission Practices and Procedures

    Greater detail about the Commission’s practices and procedures can be found in its Handbook.