Tom Talks: Inside Sacramento

California remains one of the largest economies in the world. But that headline obscures a more concerning reality: the state’s economy is no longer delivering broad-based growth, upward mobility, or stability for its residents. #caleg #cagov #cabudget Sheehy Strategy Group

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the modern workplace, policymakers are right to consider guardrails that promote transparency and fairness. However, AB 1898 (Schultz), which seeks to regulate workplace artificial intelligence tools, ultimately misses the mark. While well-intentioned, the bill as currently drafted would impose sweeping and impractical requirements that risk undermin...

California has long stood as a symbol of , and upward mobility. Yet today, a number of troubling indicators show that the Golden State faces serious structural challenges that demand urgent attention. https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2026/3/17/california-at-a-crossroads-facing-hard-truths-to-restore-the-golden-state

California’s State Appropriations Limit (SAL) —commonly known as the Gann limit —is a constitutional cap on how much tax revenue the state government can spend each year. The rule was created by voters through California Proposition 4 (1979), largely championed by anti-tax activist Paul Gann. It was later significantly modified by California Proposition 111 (1990). Together, these measures establi...

Newsom’s budget assumes continued stability at the very top of California’s tax base. Reality check: proposals like the SEIU wealth tax are already prompting income, investments, and jobs to leave the state. Learn more:https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2026/1/19/tom-sheehy-breaks-down-newsom-budget-with-assemblyman-josh-hoover #cabudget #cagov #caleg

Since I recorded a Point of Order podcast with Assemblyman Josh Hoover in early January, recent state General Fund revenue updates from the Legislative Analyst’s Office have understandably reignited that discussion. The non-partisan LAO now estimates that near-term General Fund revenues could be roughly $5 billion higher across the current budget window than projected in the governor’s January bud...

Despite Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Legislature declaring, during this year’s May Revision, that the state was suffering from a “Trump Slump” — supposedly causing a significant revenue loss — President Donald Trumphad nothing to do with what state officials themselves have described as a structural deficit , meaning current-lawspending exceeds current-law revenues.

Sheehy Strategy Group Principal Tom Sheehy recently testified before the Assembly Education Committee, warning that proposed election changes would impose costly state mandates and undermine local control. Learn more: 👉 https://www.sheehystrategygroup.com/news/2025/8/19/sheehy-testifies-on-local-control-before-assembly-education-committee #SB249 #caleg #cabudget #cagov

SB 249 is an example of the state blatantly stepping all over local control of county elections. California’s local governments should be in charge of how they elect their own county supervisors, city council members, and education board members. The state has no business coming in and trying to micromanage the election rules that govern these local offices. Furthermore, when the state does that,...

Is hiring a lobbyist in Sacramento worth it? Tom Sheehy of the Sheehy Strategy Group breaks down what makes lobbying in California so complex — and why experienced advocacy can be the key to advancing your public policy goals. Whether you're pushing legislation, protecting your interests, or navigating political challenges, this video outlines how a seasoned lobbyist can save you time, money a...

In this podcast, Tom Sheehy testifies before the Senate Appropriations committee hearing on SB 249 by Senator Tom Umberg.  Sheehy talks about the importance of local control and how cities and counties should have the ability to determine how local boards are elected, should not be  micromanaged by the state. He also points out that this bad precedent of the state usurping local control will end u...

Sheehy Strategy Group is excited to introduce a new explainer video breaking down the role of California’s Governor. The Governor of California is the state’s chief executive officer, responsible for overseeing the executive branch and implementing state laws. Watch our video to learn more about this influential position and its impact on state governance. #cagov #cabudget

Sheehy Strategy Group is excited to introduce a new explainer video breaking down the role of California’s Lieutenant Governor. As the state’s second-highest executive, the Lt. Governor serves as acting governor when needed, helps shape economic development and higher education policies, and has historically been a stepping stone to the governorship. Watch our video to learn more about this influe...

Check out our latest explainer video, in which we delve into the critical role of the California State Board of Equalization. The BOE's primary responsibilities include ensuring uniform and fair property tax assessments across California's 58 counties. The BOE ensures counties adhere to property tax laws and regulations, guaranteeing equitable treatment for taxpayers statewide. For more insights i...

In our latest explainer video, Sheehy Strategy Group highlights the role of California’s Attorney General, the state’s chief legal officer. The Attorney General, currently Rob Bonta, oversees the Department of Justice, enforcing state laws and defending California in legal matters. Beyond law enforcement, the office tackles issues like consumer protection and environmental law, while also advancin...

The California Legislature wrapped up its session on August 31, but significant changes are on the horizon for the upcoming term. Following the November 5 elections, up to 34 new members could join the Legislature in December. Eight Assembly members, including Reggie Jones-Sawyer, Chris Holden, and Marie Waldron, are being termed out. Additionally, other notable departures include Megan Dahle, who...

Check out our latest episode breaking down the crucial role of California's Superintendent of Public Instruction. Learn about the responsibilities of this nonpartisan office, from overseeing the California Department of Education to guiding policy implementation across the state's public schools. Watch now to understand how this key position shapes the educational landscape of California. For more...

As California braces for future earthquakes, it’s crucial to focus on more than just structural integrity. In this latest episode, Tom Sheehy explains how Assemblymember Lisa Calderon’s ACR 151 promotes nonstructural seismic resilience—addressing essential components like piping, wiring, and HVAC systems that keep buildings functional post-quake. Learn more about the cost-effective technologies th...

Check out our latest episode, in which we delve into the critical role of the California Secretary of State. As the state’s chief elections officer, this office ensures the integrity of elections and manages key responsibilities like corporate filings and the state archives. Learn more about the office’s pivotal role, especially with the upcoming 2024 presidential election on the horizon. For more...

Join Tom Sheehy as he dissects SB 907, Senator Josh Newman's legislation targeting the Orange County Board of Education. Sheehy scrutinizes the bill's proposal to expand the board and alter election timing, noting concerns about partisanship and democratic principles. Sheehy questions SB 907's interference in local control and asks why this policy isn't applied statewide if it is t...

Watch our latest explainer video to discover the multifaceted role of the California Insurance Commissioner — a position currently held by Ricardo Lara. From overseeing insurance companies to addressing consumer concerns, the Commissioner is elected to ensure fair and transparent insurance markets, protect Californians from financial harm, and advocate for accessible healthcare options. Watch now...

Discover the pivotal role of the California State Controller's Office in managing the state's finances and fostering economic stability. Led by Democrat Malia M. Cohen, the Controller oversees a myriad of financial functions crucial to the world's fifth-largest economy. Learn about the Controller's responsibilities, including accounting, internal auditing, unclaimed property admini...

Discover the pivotal role of the California State Treasurer's office in our latest explainer video. Established in 1849, the Treasurer oversees the financial helm of the world's fifth-largest global economy. Led by Ms. Fiona Ma, the Treasurer ensures fiscal responsibility and economic prosperity, managing trillions in payments annually and overseeing an investment portfolio exceeding $124...

Dive into our latest explainer video, as the Sheehy Strategy Group sheds light on the pivotal role played by the California Department of General Services (DGS) Procurement Division. Managing the state's hefty $12 billion annual expenditure on goods and services, this division streamlines procurement, promotes small and veteran-owned businesses, and ensures adherence to legal and ethical stand...

California's state government revenues pose an unprecedented challenge. With personal income tax revenue shrouded in uncertainty due to IRS deadline extensions, budget writers lack crucial data. October revenue totals were $24 billion below predictions, but the full picture remains elusive. As the state heads into budget season, complexities abound, leaving legislators facing a daunting task i...