The California Secretary of State is a key official chosen by voters. They are in charge of overseeing state elections. They also keep important documents like the state’s constitution and the Great Seal.
They manage the state archives and register businesses. The secretary also commissions notaries public and handles state ballot initiatives. This official is elected for four years, just like other top officials in California. They can only serve two terms.
Duties and Responsibilities of the California Secretary of State
The California Secretary of State is a key official with many duties. They make sure elections are fair and secure. They also keep important records for businesses and the public.
Overseeing State Elections
The California Secretary of State is in charge of the state’s elections. They prepare voter guides in 10 languages for over 20 million voters. They make sure election laws are followed and keep the voter database up to date.
Maintaining Business and Notary Records
The office also keeps track of business and notary records. They handle millions of business filings every year. They also make sure notaries are official and verify signatures for documents going to other countries.
Other duties include:
- Implementing electronic filing and Internet disclosure of campaign and lobbyist financial information
- Operating the Safe at Home confidential address program for victims of domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, and human trafficking
- Maintaining the Domestic Partners and Advance Health Care Directive Registries
- Safeguarding the State Archives
- Serving as a trustee of the California Museum
The California Secretary of State is key to the state’s governance. They ensure fair elections and keep important records safe. Their work is vital for democracy and the state’s economy.
secretary of state california
The California Secretary of State is key to the state’s government. Shirley Weber took over in 2021, chosen by Governor Gavin Newsom. She replaced Alex Padilla who had resigned.
This office is in charge of California’s elections. They keep track of who can vote and run the elections. They also protect the California State Archives, which are full of important historical documents.
The office has six main parts, each with its own job. The Business Programs Division deals with business stuff. They also make sure the state’s notary public system is running right.
The Secretary of State in California makes $163,917 and has over 500 employees. They are elected for four years, but can’t serve more than two terms. This means there’s always new leadership and they have to answer to the people.
Since 1849, 31 people have been the California Secretary of State. Each one has helped guide the state and protect its democracy.
| Key Facts About the California Secretary of State | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $163,917 |
| Department Size | 500 employees |
| Current Officeholder | Shirley Weber (appointed in 2021) |
| Term Length | 4 years, with a 2-term limit |
| Key Responsibilities |
|
| Inaugural Officeholder | William Van Voorhies (1849) |
| Total Number of Officeholders | 31 |
The California Secretary of State is very important. They handle elections, business stuff, and keep historical records safe. With a big department and lots of resources, they help the people of California and keep democracy strong.
Qualifications and Requirements for the Office
To run for California Secretary of State, a candidate must meet certain qualifications and requirements. They must be a registered voter and have been with their political party for at least three months before the election. They also can’t have switched parties in the last year. Plus, they can’t have been out of office for more than two terms since 1990.
The filing fee for this office is $3,479.74. But, candidates can skip the fee by getting 10,000 valid signatures. These signatures can also help with the nomination process. Each candidate must also fill out a ballot designation worksheet.
Candidates must file a Statement of Economic Interests, showing their investments and income. They need 65 to 100 signatures to file their nomination papers. Write-in candidates don’t pay a fee but still need signatures for their papers.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | The candidate must be a U.S. citizen. |
| Voter Registration | The candidate must be a registered voter and qualified to vote for the office at the time nomination papers are issued. |
| Felony Conviction | The candidate should not have a felony conviction involving specific crimes such as bribery, embezzlement of public money, or perjury. |
| Term Limits | An individual cannot have served two terms in the office sought since November 6, 1990. |
| Filing Fee | The filing fee for the California Secretary of State is $3,479.74. |
| Signature Gathering | Candidates may choose to submit a minimum of 10,000 valid signatures on petitions in lieu of filing fees. Signatures in lieu of the filing fee may be counted toward the nomination sponsor signature requirements. |
| Ballot Designation | Each candidate submitting a ballot designation must file a completed ballot designation worksheet. |
| Statement of Economic Interests | Candidates must file a Statement of Economic Interests disclosing investments and income. |
| Nomination Signatures | Candidates need to gather between 65 and 100 signatures for filing nomination papers. |
| Write-in Candidates | Write-in candidates are not required to pay filing fees, but they must gather between 65 and 100 signatures for filing nomination papers. |
These qualifications and requirements make sure candidates for the California Secretary of State office are ready. They oversee state elections and keep business and notary records.
Elections and Voting in California
The Secretary of State oversees voting and elections in California. They are elected after the first Tuesday in federal midterm election years. Californians can vote by mail, at vote centers, or at polling places, thanks to the Voter’s Choice Act.
Voter’s Choice Act Counties
The Voter’s Choice Act gives Californians more ways to vote. Voters can choose to vote by mail, at a vote center, or at a polling place. This lets them pick the method that works best for them.
Recent Election Results
In the 2022 election, Shirley Weber (D) beat Robert Bernosky (R) for California Secretary of State. Weber got 4,016,798 votes, and Bernosky got 1,281,587 votes. In the primary, Weber won with 58.9% of the vote, while Bernosky and Rachel Hamm got 18.8% and 12.1%, respectively.
| Election | Total Votes | Democratic Candidate | Republican Candidate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 General | 10,760,694 | Shirley Weber: 4,016,798 (37.3%) | Robert Bernosky: 1,281,587 (11.9%) |
| 2022 Primary | 6,816,990 | Shirley Weber: 58.9% (4,016,798 votes) | Robert Bernosky: 18.8% (1,281,587 votes) Rachel Hamm: 12.1% (822,978 votes) |
| 2018 General | 12,272,066 | Alex Padilla: 100% (12,272,066 votes) | Mark Meuser: 100% (12,272,066 votes) |
| 2018 Primary | 6,611,716 | Alex Padilla: 52.6% (3,475,633 votes) | Mark Meuser: 31.0% (2,047,903 votes) |
| 2014 | 7,085,045 | Alex Padilla: 53.6% (3,799,711 votes) | Pete Peterson: 46.4% (3,285,334 votes) |
The data shows recent election trends and results for California Secretary of State. It gives insights into the state’s voting and the people’s choices.
Business Services Provided by the Secretary of State
The California Secretary of State’s office is key to the state’s business world. It offers many services to help with california business registration and california notary public needs. It makes sure all business filings are correct and follow state laws.
One main service is the california secretary of state business services. These include fast filing options for businesses. The 24-Hour Expedite service costs $350, and the Same-Day service costs $750. These services help businesses get their documents processed quickly.
The office also has Special Handling Services for $15 per filing and $10 for copies. These services are for in-person requests in Sacramento. They help businesses that need fast help.
For a quicker process, there’s the Preclearance Services for business documents. The 24-Hour Preclearance Service costs $500. It gives businesses a quick review of their documents before filing.
| Service | Turnaround Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 24-Hour Expedite | 24 hours | $350 |
| Same-Day | Same-day | $750 |
| Special Handling (Filing) | Prioritized | $15 |
| Special Handling (Copy) | Prioritized | $10 |
| 24-Hour Preclearance | 24 hours | $500 |
The Secretary of State’s office also helps with california business registration and california notary public needs. It offers info on taxes, worker’s compensation, and unclaimed property. This info comes from state agencies like the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.
For entrepreneurs and small business owners, the office works with the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and the U.S. Small Business Administration. It offers support and resources. County agencies also help with local licenses, zoning, and permits.
The Secretary of State’s online portal, bizfile Online, is a one-stop-shop for businesses. It lets them file documents and check business records. This online platform makes california business registration and other tasks easier.
In summary, the California Secretary of State’s office is vital for the state’s business world. It offers many services and resources. These help entrepreneurs and companies navigate laws and succeed.
Term Limits and Vacancy Procedures
Constitutional Term Limit Provisions
The California Constitution sets strict term limits for the Secretary of State. An individual can only be elected for a maximum of two four-year terms. This rule helps keep the office in good hands for a reasonable amount of time.
When the Secretary of State leaves office, there’s a clear process to follow. The Governor gets to pick someone to fill the spot. But, this choice needs approval from the state Senate and Assembly.
| Key Provisions | Details |
|---|---|
| Term Limits | The California Secretary of State is limited to serving a maximum of two four-year terms, as per the state Constitution. |
| Vacancy Procedures | When a vacancy occurs, the Governor nominates a replacement to serve the remainder of the term, subject to confirmation by a majority of both houses of the California legislature. |
The rules for term limits and filling vacancies make sure the California Secretary of State office stays strong. They balance experience with new ideas, keeping the office fresh.
“The California Constitution’s term limit provisions for the Secretary of State strike a careful balance, ensuring both stability and renewal in this critical statewide office.”
Following these rules, Californians can trust the office of the Secretary of State to protect democracy and manage state business well.
Historical Background of the California Secretary of State
The California Secretary of State has been key since 1850. It has overseen elections, kept state records, and regulated business and government. This role is crucial.
The Act Concerning the Public Archives was signed on January 5, 1850. It was the first big step in keeping California’s records safe. This act is still important today.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Secretary of State took on more duties. Laws like the Purity of Elections Law (1893) and the Lobbying Control Act (1949) showed the office’s growing power. These laws helped shape California’s politics.
The 1970s and 1980s brought big changes. Laws like the Political Reform Act (1974) and the Online Disclosure Act (1997) made things more transparent. They made sure campaigns and lobbying were open and honest.
In 2021, Shirley Nash Weber became the first African American Secretary of State. Her election in 2022 was a big deal for California’s history of leadership.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1850 | Act Concerning the Public Archives signed, establishing the foundation for the preservation and management of California’s public records |
| 1893 | Purity of Elections Law (AB 8, Shanahan) enacted, regulating elections |
| 1949 | Lobbying Control Act (AB 74, Erwin) adopted, requiring disclosure of lobbying activities |
| 1974 | Political Reform Act (Proposition 9) sponsored by Secretary of State Jerry Brown, introducing campaign finance and lobbying regulations |
| 1997 | Online Disclosure Act (SB 49, Karnette) authorized the creation of CAL-ACCESS for online campaign finance disclosure filings |
| 2021 | Shirley Nash Weber sworn in as California’s first Black Secretary of State |
| 2022 | Shirley Nash Weber elected to a full term as California Secretary of State |
The history of the California Secretary of State shows the state’s dedication to democracy and clear governance. The office keeps evolving, always protecting Californians’ rights and interests.
Organizational Structure and Divisions
The California Secretary of State’s office is a key part of the state government. It handles many important tasks. At the heart of this office are several main divisions. Each division has its own set of duties and responsibilities.
Key Divisions and Responsibilities
The main divisions in the California Secretary of State’s office include:
- Business Programs Division: This division looks after the registration and management of businesses, partnerships, and LLCs in the state.
- Elections Division: This division makes sure state and federal elections run smoothly. It keeps the electoral process honest and helps local election officials.
- Administration Office: This division takes care of the day-to-day tasks of the Secretary of State’s office. It handles human resources, finance, and IT.
- California State Archives: This division keeps and makes available the state’s historical records. This includes government documents and publications.
- Management Services Division: This division gives administrative support and services to the other divisions in the Secretary of State’s office.
- Political Reform Division: This division looks after the state’s campaign finance and lobbying disclosure laws. It makes sure politics is transparent and accountable.
Each division is key to the California Secretary of State’s office working well. They all help make the state government run smoothly and efficiently.
| Division | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Business Programs Division | Handles the registration and management of businesses, partnerships, and LLCs in the state. |
| Elections Division | Oversees state and federal elections, keeps the electoral process honest, and helps local election officials. |
| Administration Office | Manages the day-to-day tasks of the Secretary of State’s office, including human resources, finance, and IT. |
| California State Archives | Keeps and makes available the state’s historical records, including government documents and publications. |
| Management Services Division | Provides administrative support and services to the other divisions in the Secretary of State’s office. |
| Political Reform Division | Handles the state’s campaign finance and lobbying disclosure laws, ensuring transparency and accountability in politics. |
The California Secretary of State’s office plays a crucial role in the state’s governance and the well-being of its citizens. Knowing about its organizational structure and divisions helps people and businesses understand the services and resources it offers.
State Budget and Compensation for the Office
The California Secretary of State’s office is key to the state’s admin and electoral processes. Its budget and pay show how vital this role is. The 2023-2024 Fiscal Year budget gave the Office of the California Secretary of State $193,307,000.
The secretary’s pay is set by the California Citizens Compensation Commission. It went from $142,577 in 2017 to $163,910 in 2022. This pay aims to draw and keep skilled people. They handle state elections, business, and notary records, and more.
| Fiscal Year | California Secretary of State Salary |
|---|---|
| 2017 | $142,577 |
| 2018 | $145,220 |
| 2019 | $148,124 |
| 2020 | $151,086 |
| 2021 | $154,108 |
| 2022 | $163,910 |
The budget and pay for the California Secretary of State are key to doing the job well. As the top elections officer, the secretary keeps California’s democracy strong. The right funding and pay draw and keep skilled people in this vital job.
In the 2023-2024 Fiscal Year, the California Secretary of State got $193,307,000. This was part of California’s big budget of $454.7 billion. This shows how important the office is and the need for enough resources to do its job.
“The California Secretary of State’s budget and compensation are critical factors in ensuring the office’s ability to carry out its duties effectively and efficiently.”
Being open and accountable with the secretary’s budget and pay shows California’s dedication to its democracy. It ensures the office is led by skilled and capable people.
Contact Information and Resources
The California Secretary of State’s office has lots of contact info and resources for the public. You can visit their official website at sos.ca.gov for updates on elections, voter registration, and business services. They also have social media on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to keep you in the loop.
If you need specific help, the office has a list of phone numbers for different departments. You can call the Business Programs, Elections Division, or even the State Archives. They have 24 phone numbers for you to reach the right person easily.
The office also offers resources in many languages like English, Spanish, Chinese, and more. This makes sure everyone can get the help they need, whether it’s about voting, business, or state records. The California Secretary of State’s office is all about supporting the community with the right information and resources.