FAQs
- The County uses Sponsorship Proposals to suggest new legislation that would have significant impact on County operations. EDGA works with departments to develop ideas for new bills and works with County legislative representatives and legislators to secure bill authors.
- Priority Issues are areas of great interest to the County of San Diego that are likely to be addressed in future legislation. These priorities inform our advocacy efforts throughout the year.
- The County’s Legislative Guidelines provide standing Board direction on important issues that recur at the federal and state levels. Legislative hearings are often set with only a few days’ notice, and we must respond quickly. These guidelines allow us to determine and advocate for the County’s position on pending federal or state legislation in a timely manner.
What is legislation?
Legislation refers to the act or process of making and enacting laws by a governing body. This is one of the main functions of government. Legislation can also mean the laws themselves that are created during this process.
How does the County monitor state and federal legislation?
EDGA staff reviews every bill that is introduced during the state and federal legislative sessions. They work with departments to determine whether it would have an impact on the County and its residents if it becomes law. In 2024, EDGA reviewed over 2500 state bills and tracked 1220 in collaboration with County departments.
Why does the County create a Legislative Program?
The Legislative Program document gives EDGA the authority to advocate for the County. We use it to guide how we respond to proposed state and federal legislation. The Board of Supervisors can take a formal position to support or oppose a bill if it is related to topics outlined in the Legislative Program. Only then EDGA can work with legislative representatives in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. to advocate for the County’s position to state and federal lawmakers.
What are the different parts of the Legislative Program?
The Legislative Program has three parts: Sponsorship Proposals, Priority Issues, and Legislative Guidelines.
How does the County decide what to include in the Legislative Program?
In addition to the feedback we receive during public comment, EDGA collects information from County departments and other governing bodies. This helps ensure that what we include in the Legislative Program aligns with existing policies and programming, fiscal feasibility, government mandates, and operational capacity.