California Lobbying Manual: A Practitioner's Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy in California Written by Leading Government Relations Professionals
Edition: 2
Copyright: 2024
Edition: 2
Copyright: 2024
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In the practical publication California Lobbying Manual: A Practitioner's Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy in California, there are 58 authors who have contributed chapters to explain the lobbying business in and around California’s State Capitol. The authors have built upon an earlier version of this book, titled “A Practitioner’s Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy in California.” Because this revised and greatly expanded book is really more like a “how to manual,” the authors decided to call it just that. This handbook contains over 90 chapters,
The authors titled this book the California Lobbying Manual because it is more than just a second edition of their first, collaborative book. As displayed on the book's cover, that is still part of the secondary title. But this has really become a manual for those who want to lobby and those who currently lobby at the state level in Sacramento.
The first edition contains 45 chapters. In this manual, the second and expanded edition, the authors have added 50 new chapters, more than doubling the content. The authors and contributing authors and colleagues that have wrote chapters, have tried to make this manual comprehensive and really cover the nuts and bolts of state lobbying in California. Their goal is to create a complete reference work for beginning lobbyists and even more experienced lobbyists and, of course, for those interested in learning about the profession itself.
Introduction
Foreword to First Edition
Foreword to Second Edition
Section I. Getting Started as a Lobbyist
Chapter 1 Overview of the Lobbying Profession Chris Micheli
Chapter 2 Who Qualifies as a Lobbyist? And What Does that Mean? Diane Fishburn and Lacey Keys
Chapter 3 FPPC Compliance for Lobbyists Thomas Hiltachk and Sarah Lang
Chapter 4 Types of Lobbyists and Their Clients Mark Smith
Chapter 5 Educating Lobbyists Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 6 Finding a Job in the Lobbying Field Chris Micheli
Chapter 7 Placement Agents and the PRA Chris Micheli
Chapter 8 Lobbyist Exemptions Chris Micheli
Chapter 9 Lobbyist Prohibitions Chris Micheli
Chapter 10 Revolving Door Limitations Chris Micheli
Chapter 11 When Does the 1-Year Revolving Door Begin and End? Chris Micheli
Chapter 12 Executive Branch Officials and Revolving Door Prohibition Chris Micheli
Chapter 13 Legislative Code of Ethics Chris Micheli
Section II. Types of Lobbying
Chapter 14 Lobbying the Legislature Mike Belote
Chapter 15 Government Procurement Lobbying Rob Grossglauser and Chris Micheli
Chapter 16 State Budget Lobbying Diane Cummins
Chapter 17 Regulatory Agency Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 18 Legislative Coalition and Grassroots Mobilization Efforts Mike Madrid
Chapter 19 Nonprofit State Legislative and Regulatory Advocacy Jennifer Fearing
Chapter 20 Grassroots Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 21 Legislative Versus Regulatory Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 22 Budget Advocacy – A Different Form of Lobbying? Chris Micheli
Section III. The Business of Lobbying
Chapter 23 How to Open Your Own Small Firm Erin Niemela
Chapter 24 Running a Successful Lobbying Firm Aaron Read
Chapter 25 Small, Boutique Lobbying Firms – Specialized, Personalized Gavin McHugh, Shari McHugh, Dawn Koepke and Naomi Padron
Chapter 26 Getting and Retaining Clients John Latimer
Chapter 27 Lobbying in a California Firm Terry McHale
Chapter 28 Exploring the Lobbyist-Client Relationship Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 29 Tips for Hiring a Lobbyist Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 30 The Business of Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 31 Managing Client Expectations Chris Micheli and Ray LeBov
Section IV. The Mechanics of Lobbying
Chapter 32 Best Practices for Lobbying Cassie Gilson
Chapter 33 General Rules of Lobbying Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 34 Ethics Rules for the Lobbying Profession Tom Hiltachk, Chris Micheli and Charles H. Bell
Chapter 35 Writing Effective Advocacy Letters Chris Micheli
Chapter 36 Providing Effective Committee Testimony Chris Micheli
Chapter 37 Finding the Right Bill Author for Your Bill Ray LeBov
Chapter 38 Negotiating Legislative Amendments Margaret Gladstein
Chapter 39 Lobbying Bill Referrals Chris Micheli
Chapter 40 Lobbying Bills in Committee Laura Curtis, Robert Moutrie and Chris Micheli
Chapter 41 Tips for Effective Meetings with State Officials and Staff Andrew Antwih and Chris Micheli
Chapter 42 Tracking and Analyzing California Legislation and Regulations Chris Micheli
Chapter 43 Lobbying Elected Officials: Suggestions for Success Marty Block and Chris Micheli
Chapter 44 Effective Lobbying in the Rulemaking Process Anthony Samson
Chapter 45 Developing Strategy and Tactics to Implement Your Lobbying Goals Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 46 Lobbying Bills on the Floors Robert Moutrie, Laura Curtis and Chris Micheli
Chapter 47 The Use of Floor Alerts Chris Micheli
Chapter 48 Pitching Projects for Budget Funding Chris Micheli
Chapter 49 Common Mistakes Made by Lobbyists Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 50 Suggestions for Effective Lobbying Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 51 Insights on the APA Process Chris Micheli
Chapter 52 Obstacles Faced in the Legislative Process Chris Micheli
Chapter 53 Influences That Shape Legislation Chris Micheli
Chapter 54 Stages of the Lobbying Process Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 55 An Introduction to Sponsored Bills Chris Micheli
Chapter 56 Sponsoring a Bill Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 57 Securing Gubernatorial Signatures and Vetoes and Confirming Gubernatorial Appointments Chris Kahn
Chapter 58 End-of-Session Plays and Pitfalls Dennis Loper
Chapter 59 Getting Your Client to Take a Position Kirstin Kolpitcke
Chapter 60 Lobbying State Agencies Chris Micheli
Section V. Specialized Areas of Lobbying
Chapter 61 Lobbying at the Public Utilities Commission Carolyn Veal-Hunter
Chapter 62 Navigating the Coastal Commission: A Guide to Effective Communications Susan McCabe
Chapter 63 Advocacy before the California Transportation Commission Robert Naylor
Section VI. Lobbying Support
Chapter 64 Lobbying Support Services Anne Kelly
Chapter 65 Policy Analysis in the Legislative Process Thomas Nussbaum
Chapter 66 Forming and Running Successful Lobbying Coalitions Jeanne Cain
Chapter 67 Statutory Interpretation and Legislative Intent Research for Lobbyists Chris Micheli
Chapter 68 Resources for Lobbyists Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 69 Lobbyists and Communications Professional in Advocacy – A Critical Partnership Jessyca Sheehan and Denise Davis
Chapter 70 Roles of the Media in the Legislative Process Chris Micheli
Chapter 71 What Lobbyists Should Know About Drafting Bills and Amendments Chris Micheli
Chapter 72 The Modern Advocate and Social Media Russell Lowery and Jarhett Blonien
Chapter 73 Managing a Successful Government Affairs Program Chris Micheli
Chapter 74 Citizen Advocacy: Telling Electeds What They Need to Hear Rand Martin
Chapter 75 Using Policy Analysis in Lobbying Efforts Loren Kaye
Section VII. Working with Lobbyists and Working as a Lobbyist
Chapter 76 Managing a Political Action Committee Marty Wilson
Chapter 77 Working as an Association Lobbyist and Managing Contract Lobbyists Katherine Pettibone
Chapter 78 Working as a State Agency Lobbyist Ben Turner
Chapter 79 Working as an In-House Lobbyist Martha Miller
Chapter 80 Working as a Labor Union Lobbyist Caitlin Vega
Chapter 81 Lobbying Sacramento from a Local Government Perspective Michael Turner
Chapter 82 Working as a Tribal Lobbyist Paula Treat
Section VIII. Practical Lobbying Tips
Chapter 83 Practical Tips for Working with Legislative Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 84 Practical Tips for Working with Committee Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 85 Practical Tips for Working with Governor’s Office Legislative Unit Chris Micheli
Chapter 86 Practical Tips for Working with Executive Branch Agency Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 87 Practical Tips for Working on Legislation with Department of Finance Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 88 Practical Tips for Working with the Office of Legislative Counsel Chris Micheli
Section IX. Alternatives to Lobbying
Chapter 89 Use of Ballot Measures in Lobbying Brandon Castillo
Chapter 90 Legislative Power: Challenging Statutes in the Courts Jon Coupal
Chapter 91 The Strategic Use of Ballot Measures in California Jim DeBoo and Anthony York
Section X. Making the Transition to Lobbying
Chapter 92 Making the Transition from Legislator to Lobbyist Kristen Olsen-Cate
Chapter 93 Making the Transition from Executive Branch Staff to Lobbyist Melanie Perron
Chapter 94 Making the Transition from Lawyer to Lobbyist Ashley Hoffman
Chapter 95 Making the Transition from Legislative Staff to Lobbyist Dylan Hoffman
Author Biographies
Index of Chapter Authors
Index of Topics
Chris Micheli is a founding partner of the Sacramento governmental relations and advocacy firm of Aprea & Micheli, Inc. As a legislative advocate, Micheli frequently testifies before policy and fiscal committees of the California Legislature, as well as a number of administrative agencies, departments, boards, and commissions. He regularly drafts legislative and regulatory language and is considered a leading authority on state tax law developments, California's knife laws, and the state legislative process. The Wall Street Journal called him "one of the top three business tax lobbyists in the state" and the Los Angeles Times described him as an "elite lobbyist."
Over the last twenty years, he has published hundreds of articles and editorials in professional journals, newspapers, and trade magazines, whose diverse subjects range from tax incentives to transportation funding. He wrote a bi-monthly column on civil justice reform for five years for The Daily Recorder, Sacramento's daily legal newspaper. He has served on the editorial advisory board for CCH's State Income Tax Alert, a nationwide publication, as well as State Income Tax Monitor, another national newsletter, and Sacramento Lawyer, a monthly legal journal.
Micheli has been an attorney of record in several key cases, having argued before the Supreme Court of California (just two years out of law school), as well as the Court of Appeal several times. He has filed more than fifteen amicus curiae briefs in California courts and is admitted to practice law before all of the state and federal courts in the state. He has published six peer-reviewed law review articles and is the co-editor and co-author of the book “A Practitioner’s Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy in California,” as well as the author of “Understanding the California Legislative Process,” both published in 2020 by Kendall-Hunt Publishing Company. His most recently-published books released in 2021 are “Introduction to California Government” and “An Introduction to Legislative Drafting in California.” He is also the co-author of “Guide to Executive Branch Agency Rulemaking.” He also published two law school casebooks entitled “The California Legislature and Its Legislative Process – Cases and Materials” and “Cases and Materials on Direct Democracy in California.”
He is a graduate of the University of California, Davis with a B.A. in Political Science – Public Service and the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law with a J.D. degree. He currently serves as an Adjunct Professor of Law at McGeorge where he co-teaches the course Lawmaking in California, as well as a Lecturer in Law at the University of California, Davis, King Hall School of Law where he co-teaches the course Legislative Drafting. He resides in Sacramento, California with his wife, Liza, two daughters, Morgan and Francesca, and son, Vincenzo.
Ray LeBov began working in Sacramento in 1975, when he was appointed as counsel to the Legislature’s Joint Committee on the Structure of the Judiciary. He served in various other legislative staff positions until 1991, most notably as counsel to the Assembly Committee on the Judiciary for his last twelve years.
In 1991 he joined the Judicial Council of California and served as the Council’s Director of Governmental Affairs from 1992 until his retirement from state service in 2004. As Director, he was the chief lobbyist for the state court system. He led the judicial branch’s successful efforts to enact myriad landmark legislation including the Trial Court Funding Act and the court unification constitutional amendment.
Since 2007, Mr. LeBov has also served as President of the Association for Professional Basketball Research (APBR). He also publishes the blog Basketball Intelligence, a daily digest of the best writing about professional basketball.
He has also been a featured columnist on lobbying for Capitol Weekly, and can presently be heard in a series of podcasts on effective lobbying practices for the Capital Center at McGeorge School of Law and Policy..
Mr. LeBov received his B.A. degree from Yale University and his J.D. from University of Southern California. Following his graduation from Yale, he served a year as a volunteer with VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America), now a part of AmeriCorps.
"The updated California Lobbying Manual provides a truly comprehensive how-to for California advocates, covering everything from lobbying basics to helpful practice tips. In this volume, advocates will find step-by-step insights for each facet of the state-level lobbying process, with no stone left unturned."
Julia E. Stein | Deputy Director
Emmett Institute on Climate Change & the Environment
“The California Lobbying Manual is a comprehensive and informative overview of all types of lobbying in Sacramento. It is now the go-to source for all those interested in shaping California policy, from students to advocacy organizations to lobbyists themselves.”
Ted Lempert | Former California Assemblymember
President, Children Now and Lecturer in California Politics at UC Berkeley
“Even after working in and around the California State Capitol for over 30 years, “The California Lobbying Manual,” reveals insights, strategies, and basic procedural knowledge, that can help young professionals and folks like me that have been around for decades. And Micheli isn’t just writing books, he is one of the most effective legislative advocates in the state. A must read for anyone looking to learn how to engage effectively.”
Matthew Hargrove | President/CEO
California Business Properties Association
“There is no greater authority than Chris Micheli on lobbying in Sacramento. His common sense guide provides the definitive roadmap to all professionals in the field, and his expertise shines through with his clear explanations and with the wisdom that he has gained through the years of honing his craft.”
David J. Farber | Partner
King & Spalding LLP | Washington, D.C.
“California is one of the most complicated states to understand how to be an effective lobbyist or advocate in let alone how to be successful doing it. ‘The California Lobbying Manual’ gives young professionals or seasoned veterans a better understanding of how to develop effective strategies to impact the legislative and regulatory process to benefit the clients they represent, while providing firsthand insight into what is impactful or what could be damaging to getting policy priorities over the finish line. Anyone interested in public policy in California or the political arena needs to read this!”
Rachel Michelin | President & CEO
California Retailers Association
“The ‘California Lobbying Manual,’ authored by a powerhouse team of more than 50 highly sought-after government relations professionals, is your one-stop guide to becoming a persuasive advocate. This concise, yet comprehensive, resource demystifies the intricacies of California governmental advocacy. Bringing together decades of experience in navigating the state's legislative and regulatory landscape, the book offers invaluable insights honed over years of proven track records. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, this manual is a masterclass in navigating California government and emerging as a powerful voice for your cause.”
Sabrina Demayo Lockhart | Executive Director
California Attractions and Parks Association
“Having spent over 30 years in the California State Capitol, I can confidently say that "California Lobbying Manual" by Chris Micheli is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in government relations. This comprehensive guide, with contributions from 58 seasoned professionals, covers every nuance of lobbying and advocacy in California. Micheli's expertise and dedication to the field shine through every page, making it a must-read for both novices and veterans alike. It's an exemplary reference that reflects the complexity and dynamism of California's legislative process.”
Dean Florez, Senator, Ret. | Founder, CEO
Balance Public Relations
“The author of this guide has absolute mastery of everything related to the California Legislature. Even lawmakers turn to him for guidance. If you want to learn lobbying from the best of the best, this guide is indispensable.”
California State Assemblyman Mike Gatto (ret.)
“Chris and Ray have compiled the most complete guide to navigating Sacramento that has ever been made. Drawing from an impressive collection of experienced professionals, they present valuable insights and tools in a comprehensive yet easy to understand format. Whether you are new to the profession, or an experienced leader, this book is a must have reference point in understanding and strategically navigating California’s complex political landscape. It raises the bar in advocacy and those who don’t utilize it will be left behind.”
Jeffrey Ball | President/Chief Executive Officer
Orange County Business Council
“Chris Micheli is back again with another essential and comprehensive contribution to the art of lobbying in California's capitol. The California Lobbying Manual is a practical all-inclusive guide to the detailed intricacies of lobbying both the legislature, the Governor, and executive branch agencies. From the legal and compliance side of advocacy to the nuts and bolts of running a lobbying firm, Micheli and his expert and experienced team of co-authors have collaborated to publish a manual that will benefit veteran, new and future lobbyists. Seasoned experts in government affairs and interns just getting their start in advocacy would both benefit from the information, advice and tips contained in Micheli’s California Lobbying Manual.”
Katie Davey | Executive Director
California Dairy Institute
“Chris Micheli has devoted a significant portion of his professional career to the public policy arena, specifically lobbying and advocacy. He has made huge contributions to his craft through the books that he has written along with other vehicles for learning. The “California Lobbying Manual: A Practitioners Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy”, represents one of his finest accomplishments. The large number of his colleagues, leading government professional, that responded to his request that they contribute to this book, illustrates the regard that so many that work in California’s Capitol have for him. Chris is an indispensable part of the lobbying and advocacy world in Sacramento, and this book is an equally indispensable addition to the educational process for anyone seeking to establish a career in the profession that Chris respects, cherishes and enjoys so much.”
Winston Hickox | Partner, California Strategies
Former CalEPA Secretary
“California’s legislature is second only to the U.S. Congress in terms of its complexity, operation, ethics rules, and insider jargon. What Chris Micheli and contributors have provided is the most complete guide to effective lobbying that has ever been put to print – and not just for California. Lobbyists of all ages and experiences should keep a dog-eared copy of this book on their desk for continual reference.”
Colin Sueyres | President
Western Propane Gas Association
"The complexities of California’s legal and regulatory environment require professionals to have effective lobbying strategies. The California Lobbying Manual is a comprehensive guide with the insights from seasoned professionals that understand the systems of government and the advocacy to be successful. The defined strategies and approaches from experts make this the go-to guide."
Maria S. Salinas | President & CEO
Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce
In the practical publication California Lobbying Manual: A Practitioner's Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy in California, there are 58 authors who have contributed chapters to explain the lobbying business in and around California’s State Capitol. The authors have built upon an earlier version of this book, titled “A Practitioner’s Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy in California.” Because this revised and greatly expanded book is really more like a “how to manual,” the authors decided to call it just that. This handbook contains over 90 chapters,
The authors titled this book the California Lobbying Manual because it is more than just a second edition of their first, collaborative book. As displayed on the book's cover, that is still part of the secondary title. But this has really become a manual for those who want to lobby and those who currently lobby at the state level in Sacramento.
The first edition contains 45 chapters. In this manual, the second and expanded edition, the authors have added 50 new chapters, more than doubling the content. The authors and contributing authors and colleagues that have wrote chapters, have tried to make this manual comprehensive and really cover the nuts and bolts of state lobbying in California. Their goal is to create a complete reference work for beginning lobbyists and even more experienced lobbyists and, of course, for those interested in learning about the profession itself.
Introduction
Foreword to First Edition
Foreword to Second Edition
Section I. Getting Started as a Lobbyist
Chapter 1 Overview of the Lobbying Profession Chris Micheli
Chapter 2 Who Qualifies as a Lobbyist? And What Does that Mean? Diane Fishburn and Lacey Keys
Chapter 3 FPPC Compliance for Lobbyists Thomas Hiltachk and Sarah Lang
Chapter 4 Types of Lobbyists and Their Clients Mark Smith
Chapter 5 Educating Lobbyists Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 6 Finding a Job in the Lobbying Field Chris Micheli
Chapter 7 Placement Agents and the PRA Chris Micheli
Chapter 8 Lobbyist Exemptions Chris Micheli
Chapter 9 Lobbyist Prohibitions Chris Micheli
Chapter 10 Revolving Door Limitations Chris Micheli
Chapter 11 When Does the 1-Year Revolving Door Begin and End? Chris Micheli
Chapter 12 Executive Branch Officials and Revolving Door Prohibition Chris Micheli
Chapter 13 Legislative Code of Ethics Chris Micheli
Section II. Types of Lobbying
Chapter 14 Lobbying the Legislature Mike Belote
Chapter 15 Government Procurement Lobbying Rob Grossglauser and Chris Micheli
Chapter 16 State Budget Lobbying Diane Cummins
Chapter 17 Regulatory Agency Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 18 Legislative Coalition and Grassroots Mobilization Efforts Mike Madrid
Chapter 19 Nonprofit State Legislative and Regulatory Advocacy Jennifer Fearing
Chapter 20 Grassroots Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 21 Legislative Versus Regulatory Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 22 Budget Advocacy – A Different Form of Lobbying? Chris Micheli
Section III. The Business of Lobbying
Chapter 23 How to Open Your Own Small Firm Erin Niemela
Chapter 24 Running a Successful Lobbying Firm Aaron Read
Chapter 25 Small, Boutique Lobbying Firms – Specialized, Personalized Gavin McHugh, Shari McHugh, Dawn Koepke and Naomi Padron
Chapter 26 Getting and Retaining Clients John Latimer
Chapter 27 Lobbying in a California Firm Terry McHale
Chapter 28 Exploring the Lobbyist-Client Relationship Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 29 Tips for Hiring a Lobbyist Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 30 The Business of Lobbying Chris Micheli
Chapter 31 Managing Client Expectations Chris Micheli and Ray LeBov
Section IV. The Mechanics of Lobbying
Chapter 32 Best Practices for Lobbying Cassie Gilson
Chapter 33 General Rules of Lobbying Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 34 Ethics Rules for the Lobbying Profession Tom Hiltachk, Chris Micheli and Charles H. Bell
Chapter 35 Writing Effective Advocacy Letters Chris Micheli
Chapter 36 Providing Effective Committee Testimony Chris Micheli
Chapter 37 Finding the Right Bill Author for Your Bill Ray LeBov
Chapter 38 Negotiating Legislative Amendments Margaret Gladstein
Chapter 39 Lobbying Bill Referrals Chris Micheli
Chapter 40 Lobbying Bills in Committee Laura Curtis, Robert Moutrie and Chris Micheli
Chapter 41 Tips for Effective Meetings with State Officials and Staff Andrew Antwih and Chris Micheli
Chapter 42 Tracking and Analyzing California Legislation and Regulations Chris Micheli
Chapter 43 Lobbying Elected Officials: Suggestions for Success Marty Block and Chris Micheli
Chapter 44 Effective Lobbying in the Rulemaking Process Anthony Samson
Chapter 45 Developing Strategy and Tactics to Implement Your Lobbying Goals Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 46 Lobbying Bills on the Floors Robert Moutrie, Laura Curtis and Chris Micheli
Chapter 47 The Use of Floor Alerts Chris Micheli
Chapter 48 Pitching Projects for Budget Funding Chris Micheli
Chapter 49 Common Mistakes Made by Lobbyists Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 50 Suggestions for Effective Lobbying Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 51 Insights on the APA Process Chris Micheli
Chapter 52 Obstacles Faced in the Legislative Process Chris Micheli
Chapter 53 Influences That Shape Legislation Chris Micheli
Chapter 54 Stages of the Lobbying Process Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 55 An Introduction to Sponsored Bills Chris Micheli
Chapter 56 Sponsoring a Bill Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 57 Securing Gubernatorial Signatures and Vetoes and Confirming Gubernatorial Appointments Chris Kahn
Chapter 58 End-of-Session Plays and Pitfalls Dennis Loper
Chapter 59 Getting Your Client to Take a Position Kirstin Kolpitcke
Chapter 60 Lobbying State Agencies Chris Micheli
Section V. Specialized Areas of Lobbying
Chapter 61 Lobbying at the Public Utilities Commission Carolyn Veal-Hunter
Chapter 62 Navigating the Coastal Commission: A Guide to Effective Communications Susan McCabe
Chapter 63 Advocacy before the California Transportation Commission Robert Naylor
Section VI. Lobbying Support
Chapter 64 Lobbying Support Services Anne Kelly
Chapter 65 Policy Analysis in the Legislative Process Thomas Nussbaum
Chapter 66 Forming and Running Successful Lobbying Coalitions Jeanne Cain
Chapter 67 Statutory Interpretation and Legislative Intent Research for Lobbyists Chris Micheli
Chapter 68 Resources for Lobbyists Ray LeBov and Chris Micheli
Chapter 69 Lobbyists and Communications Professional in Advocacy – A Critical Partnership Jessyca Sheehan and Denise Davis
Chapter 70 Roles of the Media in the Legislative Process Chris Micheli
Chapter 71 What Lobbyists Should Know About Drafting Bills and Amendments Chris Micheli
Chapter 72 The Modern Advocate and Social Media Russell Lowery and Jarhett Blonien
Chapter 73 Managing a Successful Government Affairs Program Chris Micheli
Chapter 74 Citizen Advocacy: Telling Electeds What They Need to Hear Rand Martin
Chapter 75 Using Policy Analysis in Lobbying Efforts Loren Kaye
Section VII. Working with Lobbyists and Working as a Lobbyist
Chapter 76 Managing a Political Action Committee Marty Wilson
Chapter 77 Working as an Association Lobbyist and Managing Contract Lobbyists Katherine Pettibone
Chapter 78 Working as a State Agency Lobbyist Ben Turner
Chapter 79 Working as an In-House Lobbyist Martha Miller
Chapter 80 Working as a Labor Union Lobbyist Caitlin Vega
Chapter 81 Lobbying Sacramento from a Local Government Perspective Michael Turner
Chapter 82 Working as a Tribal Lobbyist Paula Treat
Section VIII. Practical Lobbying Tips
Chapter 83 Practical Tips for Working with Legislative Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 84 Practical Tips for Working with Committee Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 85 Practical Tips for Working with Governor’s Office Legislative Unit Chris Micheli
Chapter 86 Practical Tips for Working with Executive Branch Agency Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 87 Practical Tips for Working on Legislation with Department of Finance Staff Chris Micheli
Chapter 88 Practical Tips for Working with the Office of Legislative Counsel Chris Micheli
Section IX. Alternatives to Lobbying
Chapter 89 Use of Ballot Measures in Lobbying Brandon Castillo
Chapter 90 Legislative Power: Challenging Statutes in the Courts Jon Coupal
Chapter 91 The Strategic Use of Ballot Measures in California Jim DeBoo and Anthony York
Section X. Making the Transition to Lobbying
Chapter 92 Making the Transition from Legislator to Lobbyist Kristen Olsen-Cate
Chapter 93 Making the Transition from Executive Branch Staff to Lobbyist Melanie Perron
Chapter 94 Making the Transition from Lawyer to Lobbyist Ashley Hoffman
Chapter 95 Making the Transition from Legislative Staff to Lobbyist Dylan Hoffman
Author Biographies
Index of Chapter Authors
Index of Topics
Chris Micheli is a founding partner of the Sacramento governmental relations and advocacy firm of Aprea & Micheli, Inc. As a legislative advocate, Micheli frequently testifies before policy and fiscal committees of the California Legislature, as well as a number of administrative agencies, departments, boards, and commissions. He regularly drafts legislative and regulatory language and is considered a leading authority on state tax law developments, California's knife laws, and the state legislative process. The Wall Street Journal called him "one of the top three business tax lobbyists in the state" and the Los Angeles Times described him as an "elite lobbyist."
Over the last twenty years, he has published hundreds of articles and editorials in professional journals, newspapers, and trade magazines, whose diverse subjects range from tax incentives to transportation funding. He wrote a bi-monthly column on civil justice reform for five years for The Daily Recorder, Sacramento's daily legal newspaper. He has served on the editorial advisory board for CCH's State Income Tax Alert, a nationwide publication, as well as State Income Tax Monitor, another national newsletter, and Sacramento Lawyer, a monthly legal journal.
Micheli has been an attorney of record in several key cases, having argued before the Supreme Court of California (just two years out of law school), as well as the Court of Appeal several times. He has filed more than fifteen amicus curiae briefs in California courts and is admitted to practice law before all of the state and federal courts in the state. He has published six peer-reviewed law review articles and is the co-editor and co-author of the book “A Practitioner’s Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy in California,” as well as the author of “Understanding the California Legislative Process,” both published in 2020 by Kendall-Hunt Publishing Company. His most recently-published books released in 2021 are “Introduction to California Government” and “An Introduction to Legislative Drafting in California.” He is also the co-author of “Guide to Executive Branch Agency Rulemaking.” He also published two law school casebooks entitled “The California Legislature and Its Legislative Process – Cases and Materials” and “Cases and Materials on Direct Democracy in California.”
He is a graduate of the University of California, Davis with a B.A. in Political Science – Public Service and the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law with a J.D. degree. He currently serves as an Adjunct Professor of Law at McGeorge where he co-teaches the course Lawmaking in California, as well as a Lecturer in Law at the University of California, Davis, King Hall School of Law where he co-teaches the course Legislative Drafting. He resides in Sacramento, California with his wife, Liza, two daughters, Morgan and Francesca, and son, Vincenzo.
Ray LeBov began working in Sacramento in 1975, when he was appointed as counsel to the Legislature’s Joint Committee on the Structure of the Judiciary. He served in various other legislative staff positions until 1991, most notably as counsel to the Assembly Committee on the Judiciary for his last twelve years.
In 1991 he joined the Judicial Council of California and served as the Council’s Director of Governmental Affairs from 1992 until his retirement from state service in 2004. As Director, he was the chief lobbyist for the state court system. He led the judicial branch’s successful efforts to enact myriad landmark legislation including the Trial Court Funding Act and the court unification constitutional amendment.
Since 2007, Mr. LeBov has also served as President of the Association for Professional Basketball Research (APBR). He also publishes the blog Basketball Intelligence, a daily digest of the best writing about professional basketball.
He has also been a featured columnist on lobbying for Capitol Weekly, and can presently be heard in a series of podcasts on effective lobbying practices for the Capital Center at McGeorge School of Law and Policy..
Mr. LeBov received his B.A. degree from Yale University and his J.D. from University of Southern California. Following his graduation from Yale, he served a year as a volunteer with VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America), now a part of AmeriCorps.
"The updated California Lobbying Manual provides a truly comprehensive how-to for California advocates, covering everything from lobbying basics to helpful practice tips. In this volume, advocates will find step-by-step insights for each facet of the state-level lobbying process, with no stone left unturned."
Julia E. Stein | Deputy Director
Emmett Institute on Climate Change & the Environment
“The California Lobbying Manual is a comprehensive and informative overview of all types of lobbying in Sacramento. It is now the go-to source for all those interested in shaping California policy, from students to advocacy organizations to lobbyists themselves.”
Ted Lempert | Former California Assemblymember
President, Children Now and Lecturer in California Politics at UC Berkeley
“Even after working in and around the California State Capitol for over 30 years, “The California Lobbying Manual,” reveals insights, strategies, and basic procedural knowledge, that can help young professionals and folks like me that have been around for decades. And Micheli isn’t just writing books, he is one of the most effective legislative advocates in the state. A must read for anyone looking to learn how to engage effectively.”
Matthew Hargrove | President/CEO
California Business Properties Association
“There is no greater authority than Chris Micheli on lobbying in Sacramento. His common sense guide provides the definitive roadmap to all professionals in the field, and his expertise shines through with his clear explanations and with the wisdom that he has gained through the years of honing his craft.”
David J. Farber | Partner
King & Spalding LLP | Washington, D.C.
“California is one of the most complicated states to understand how to be an effective lobbyist or advocate in let alone how to be successful doing it. ‘The California Lobbying Manual’ gives young professionals or seasoned veterans a better understanding of how to develop effective strategies to impact the legislative and regulatory process to benefit the clients they represent, while providing firsthand insight into what is impactful or what could be damaging to getting policy priorities over the finish line. Anyone interested in public policy in California or the political arena needs to read this!”
Rachel Michelin | President & CEO
California Retailers Association
“The ‘California Lobbying Manual,’ authored by a powerhouse team of more than 50 highly sought-after government relations professionals, is your one-stop guide to becoming a persuasive advocate. This concise, yet comprehensive, resource demystifies the intricacies of California governmental advocacy. Bringing together decades of experience in navigating the state's legislative and regulatory landscape, the book offers invaluable insights honed over years of proven track records. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, this manual is a masterclass in navigating California government and emerging as a powerful voice for your cause.”
Sabrina Demayo Lockhart | Executive Director
California Attractions and Parks Association
“Having spent over 30 years in the California State Capitol, I can confidently say that "California Lobbying Manual" by Chris Micheli is an indispensable resource for anyone involved in government relations. This comprehensive guide, with contributions from 58 seasoned professionals, covers every nuance of lobbying and advocacy in California. Micheli's expertise and dedication to the field shine through every page, making it a must-read for both novices and veterans alike. It's an exemplary reference that reflects the complexity and dynamism of California's legislative process.”
Dean Florez, Senator, Ret. | Founder, CEO
Balance Public Relations
“The author of this guide has absolute mastery of everything related to the California Legislature. Even lawmakers turn to him for guidance. If you want to learn lobbying from the best of the best, this guide is indispensable.”
California State Assemblyman Mike Gatto (ret.)
“Chris and Ray have compiled the most complete guide to navigating Sacramento that has ever been made. Drawing from an impressive collection of experienced professionals, they present valuable insights and tools in a comprehensive yet easy to understand format. Whether you are new to the profession, or an experienced leader, this book is a must have reference point in understanding and strategically navigating California’s complex political landscape. It raises the bar in advocacy and those who don’t utilize it will be left behind.”
Jeffrey Ball | President/Chief Executive Officer
Orange County Business Council
“Chris Micheli is back again with another essential and comprehensive contribution to the art of lobbying in California's capitol. The California Lobbying Manual is a practical all-inclusive guide to the detailed intricacies of lobbying both the legislature, the Governor, and executive branch agencies. From the legal and compliance side of advocacy to the nuts and bolts of running a lobbying firm, Micheli and his expert and experienced team of co-authors have collaborated to publish a manual that will benefit veteran, new and future lobbyists. Seasoned experts in government affairs and interns just getting their start in advocacy would both benefit from the information, advice and tips contained in Micheli’s California Lobbying Manual.”
Katie Davey | Executive Director
California Dairy Institute
“Chris Micheli has devoted a significant portion of his professional career to the public policy arena, specifically lobbying and advocacy. He has made huge contributions to his craft through the books that he has written along with other vehicles for learning. The “California Lobbying Manual: A Practitioners Guide to Lobbying and Advocacy”, represents one of his finest accomplishments. The large number of his colleagues, leading government professional, that responded to his request that they contribute to this book, illustrates the regard that so many that work in California’s Capitol have for him. Chris is an indispensable part of the lobbying and advocacy world in Sacramento, and this book is an equally indispensable addition to the educational process for anyone seeking to establish a career in the profession that Chris respects, cherishes and enjoys so much.”
Winston Hickox | Partner, California Strategies
Former CalEPA Secretary
“California’s legislature is second only to the U.S. Congress in terms of its complexity, operation, ethics rules, and insider jargon. What Chris Micheli and contributors have provided is the most complete guide to effective lobbying that has ever been put to print – and not just for California. Lobbyists of all ages and experiences should keep a dog-eared copy of this book on their desk for continual reference.”
Colin Sueyres | President
Western Propane Gas Association
"The complexities of California’s legal and regulatory environment require professionals to have effective lobbying strategies. The California Lobbying Manual is a comprehensive guide with the insights from seasoned professionals that understand the systems of government and the advocacy to be successful. The defined strategies and approaches from experts make this the go-to guide."
Maria S. Salinas | President & CEO
Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce