The California Legislature—the most active state legislature in the country—routinely passes sweeping laws that often influence action in other states and at the federal level. Whether seeking to introduce favorable legislation or defeat or fix problematic legislation, Samson Advisors positions clients to become impactful stakeholders in the legislative process, from bill inception to passage or defeat. This includes developing tailored legislative strategies, building external coalitions, educating and engaging with policymakers and key staff, drafting and amending legislation, developing and submitting comment letters, and testifying in legislative committee hearings.
Legislation, once signed into law, often requires one or more of California’s 200+ boards, commissions, and departments to undertake rulemaking to implement statutory changes. Samson Advisors has experience advocating before a broad range of state regulatory agencies and understands how regulatory outcomes are shaped by both statutory intent and administrative discretion. We work closely with clients to analyze proposed regulations, identify practical and legal concerns, and engage constructively with regulators throughout the rulemaking process. Our approach focuses on ensuring regulations are workable, aligned with legislative intent, and reflective of real-world impacts on affected industries and communities.
California’s budget process presents significant opportunities for organizations seeking state funding through the General Fund, special funds, and targeted investment programs such as the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF). Samson Advisors assists clients in identifying appropriate funding opportunities, developing compelling budget requests, and navigating the Legislature and Administration’s complex budget decision-making process. We engage with key legislative offices, budget subcommittees, and Administration officials to help elevate client priorities at critical stages of the budget cycle. Our goal is to position client projects and programs as strong candidates for state investment by aligning them with California’s policy objectives and fiscal priorities.
Effective government affairs requires an understanding of California’s political landscape and the role political engagement can play in advancing long-term objectives. Samson Advisors provides strategic guidance to clients on political participation, including insights into the state’s campaign finance framework and the political dynamics shaping decision-making in Sacramento. We help clients assess when and how political engagement can support broader policy or business goals, while maintaining compliance with applicable laws and ethical standards. Our counsel is designed to help clients engage thoughtfully, strategically, and responsibly in California’s political process.
Government affairs strategies do not always involve advocating for or against specific policy proposals. Companies often engage Samson Advisors to introduce their organization to key policymakers, enhance brand reputation, build durable relationships with decision-makers, and assess the political viability of proposed projects or initiatives in California. We help clients develop and execute reputational strategies, cultivate meaningful relationships with public officials and stakeholders, and build coalitions of external partners to support shared objectives. Whether elevating a company’s profile, generating support for a project, or strengthening stakeholder alignment, our firm has a track record of helping clients bring attention to the good work they are doing—or seek to do—in the State of California.