Reviving Zombie Bills: The Surprising Trend of California Lawmakers Resurrecting Rejected Legislation

The legislation appeared to be doomed, as Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed it twice in the last two years, prohibiting California companies from utilizing driverless trucks. Nevertheless, lawmakers revived the proposal, led by the Teamsters union, in hopes of securing success on the third attempt. Despite the lack of indication that Newsom's stance has altered, Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry emphasized the bill's focus on safeguarding public safety and job preservation, dismissing potential influences from Teamsters' contributions. Assembly Bill 33 exemplifies a recurring trend in the California Legislature, where vetoed bills often resurface—especially with backing from powerful labor unions. Experts note that reviving failed legislation can facilitate ongoing public discourse, allowing policymakers to gradually build support for important issues.