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There Oughta Be a Law

Introduction

Each fall, Senator Simitian kicks off his annual “There Oughta Be A Law” contest and invites constituents (and other Californians) to submit ideas for a new law, or to take an existing law off the books. At least one contest winner is selected, and his or her idea is introduced the following spring as a legislative proposal. Since 2001, 18 “Oughta” entries have been signed into law.

Contest winners are invited to the State Capitol for lunch with State Senator Simitian and will have an opportunity to testify on behalf of their bill at a formal hearing. Each winner will also receive a California State flag that has been flown over the Capitol.  But the real prize is knowing that your idea has the potential of becoming law for 38 million Californians.

Winners

2011-2012 Winners
2010-2011 Winners
2009-2010 Winners
2008-2009 Winners
2007-2008 Winners
2006-2007 Winners
2005-2006 Winners
2004-2005 Winners
2003-2004 Winners
2002-2003 Winners
2001-2002 Winners

Press Releases

11/20/2012 - Simitian Honored for “Exposing the Secret” of Breast Cancer Detection

09/28/2012 - Governor Green Lights Simitian’s Red-Light Camera Reforms

09/26/2012 - Simitian Bill To Protect “Renters in Foreclosure” Signed By Governor

More "There Oughta Be A Law" Press Releases

News

08/22/2012 - In California foreclosures, tenants should have rights, too

08/06/2012 - Are you dense? Forty percent of women tested are

12/23/2011 - Op-ed: New Law To Stop ‘Robo-tripping’ Needs a Village To Make it Work

More "There Oughta Be A Law" News