The Future of CALDA: Reflecting on the Passage of AB 690 and Looking Ahead

As we celebrate the successful passage of AB 690 (Chen, 2023) and our 25th year of advocacy, it is essential to reflect on the journey that led us here and to look toward the road ahead. The passage of AB 690 represents a significant milestone, but it is just the beginning of our efforts to develop a long-term, sustainable regulatory framework for the Legal Document Assistant (LDA) profession prior to the next sunset in 2030.

Reflecting on the Success of AB 690

Early in 2023, CALDA's legislative committee made a pivotal recommendation: to retain the services of Precision Advocacy for guidance on how to achieve a clean bill passage for AB 690. Precision Advocacy exceeded our expectations, meeting frequently with us and keeping us informed each step of the way.

A crucial element to our success was the selection of Assemblyman Chen to author and sponsor AB 690. His support and advocacy for our cause were instrumental. Our dedicated legislative committee members—Jim Wilroy, Elizabeth Olvera, Helen Bellamy, Colleen Marie, and CALDA President Robert Van Steen—worked tirelessly, meeting regularly to strategize and navigate the complexities of the legislative process.

While many of the factors that led to the success of AB 690 were within our control—such as selecting Precision Advocacy, choosing Assemblyman Chen, and leveraging the expertise of our legislative committee—there were external factors that played a significant role as well. According to the Precision Advocacy Report, the political landscape at the time was favorable for the passage of AB 690. Changes in relevant policy committee leadership in the Assembly, the Senate Judiciary Committee’s rebuke of the State Bar of California over misconduct, and a substantial budget deficit all contributed to a “clean” six-year extension of existing statutes.

In conclusion, the clean passage of AB 690 was a product of hard work, strategic decision-making, and a bit of luck.

Planning for the Future

Looking ahead to 2030, CALDA must recommit to planning for the future and preparing for the inevitability of a changing political landscape. The next Five-Six years will require us to continue advocating for our profession, staying informed about legislative developments, and working collaboratively to ensure the sustainability and growth of the LDA profession.

As we commemorate our 25th anniversary, let us celebrate our accomplishments and stay vigilant and proactive in our advocacy efforts. By doing so, we can ensure that CALDA remains a strong, effective voice for LDAs and the consumers we serve.

Stay tuned for more updates and ways you can get involved in our ongoing efforts to support and advance our profession.

Call to Action:

Members and stakeholders, your participation and support have been invaluable thus far. Let’s continue to work together to shape the future of the LDA profession. Join the legislative committee, attend meetings, and contribute your ideas and energy to our shared goals. Together, we can navigate the challenges ahead and build a brighter future for CALDA.

Thank you for your continued commitment and dedication.

We look forward to the ongoing journey with optimism and determination, knowing that with collective effort and strategic planning, we can achieve our vision for the future of the LDA profession.

ADELANTE!

With Gratitude,

Chester A. Ruiz, Chair of Legislative Committee 2023-24

Jim Wilroy, Co-Chair of Legislative Committee. 2023-24

California Association of Legal Document Assistants (CALDA)