MARTINEZ – Assemblymember Mark DeSaulnier (D-Concord) kicked off his first annual “There Oughta Be a Law” contest today.  The contest invites members of the community from the 11th Assembly District to submit ideas for new state legislation. 
 
 “This is a great program to open the legislative session. I want the community to know that I welcome their suggestions. I need their help to effectively represent the district and know what facets of government are making life difficult. If you’ve ever thought to yourself, ‘hey, there oughta be a law about that,’ this program is a great outlet for you,” DeSaulnier said.
 
The winners may have their bill ideas become legislation, and could have the opportunity to testify at a hearing on their bill in the State Capitol. They will also have lunch with DeSaulnier in the Capitol. “But most importantly,” said DeSaulnier, “the creators of the chosen ideas see how the bill process works and get a unique view of the inner workings of the Capitol.”
 
The inception of the program comes with the hopes of educating the community on the legislative process, and increasing community participation in government.
 
The “There Oughta Be a Law” contest was created by Senator Joe Simitian in 2001. Since inception, ten ideas from constituents have been signed into law. Other Legislators have implemented similar programs. The bills represent an eclectic mix of public concerns - consumer privacy, highway safety, and reducing the red tape of government bureaucracies.

There Oughta Be a Law Contest - Application Form

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