California Lawmakers Are Busy Again (Press, 15 January 1976)

In early 1976, California has seen a significant wave of social legislation as its lawmakers convene for another session. The state legislators are expected to produce a series of new laws, aiming to expand on the existing legal framework that has accumulated since California became a state in 1850. This influx of legislation includes 1,285 laws that became effective at the start of the year, many reflecting recent shifts in public attitudes and reinforcing civil rights. One noteworthy piece of legislation designates the California gray whale as the state marine mammal, joining other official state symbols. A major change involves the decriminalisation of small amounts of marijuana; possession of up to an ounce is now classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by a maximum fine of $100, while more significant quantities still carry serious penalties. Additionally, acts previously considered sexual perversion are no longer illegal if performed privately between consenting adults, regardless of sexual orientation. Other changes enhance the rights of individuals, including allowing arrested persons to make two phone calls from jail instead of one, the establishment of smoking areas for high school students, and mandatory equal opportunities for girls in school sports. Doctors are now permitted to prescribe contraceptives to teenagers without parental consent, and illegitimate children are granted the same legal standing as their legitimate counterparts. Furthermore, schools must obtain parental permission before inflicting corporal punishment. While many of the new laws are progressive, some are stricter, including mandatory prison sentences for the use of firearms in major crimes and for selling half an ounce or more of heroin. As California grapples with its substantial annual budget of approximately NZD 11,000 million, which would place it as the tenth largest economy globally if it were a nation, the state government faces ongoing financial challenges. Governor Jerry Brown, a Democrat, leads a legislature where both Democratic and Republican factions are prone to internal disputes over various issues. Notably, Governor Brown has displayed a willingness to veto legislation even from his party's majority, suggesting a potentially tumultuous year ahead in the legislative sessions.

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