"California's New Laws: Reporting Suspicions of Treason and Marijuana Use, and the Impact on Corporate Emissions Disclosure"
California lawyers are now required to report any knowledge of attorneys involved in treason, rebellion, or insurrection, according to Senate Bill 40 signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom. The law exempts information protected by attorney-client privilege and aims to prevent harassment. It also increases oversight of the California State Bar, with the appointment of its executive director and general counsel requiring approval from the California Senate. The bill was prompted by a recent audit of the State Bar's handling of the Thomas Girardi scandal, where the former lawyer was disbarred for embezzlement and bribery. The State Bar is currently facing a class action lawsuit from former Girardi clients.