SCR 40: Women in Law Month
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: Senate
- Latest Version Date: 2025-04-29
Current Status:
Passed
(2025-04-29: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Res. Chapter 48, Statutes of 2025.)
Introduced
In Committee
Awaiting First Chamber Vote
Passed First Chamber
In Committee
Awaiting Second Chamber Vote
Passed Second Chamber
Enacted
What does this bill do?
This resolution proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor women’s contributions to the legal profession and promote efforts toward gender equality. It encourages law firms, legal organizations, and schools to hold events and programs that highlight women’s achievements and address ongoing problems like underrepresentation, pay gaps, and bias.
The summary is provided by generative AI which can make mistakes. For original language, please view the details in the table below.
This measure would proclaim April 2025 as Women in Law Month to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law and would encourage law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month, as provided.
This measure would proclaim April 2025 as Women in Law Month to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law and would encourage law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month, as provided.
This measure would proclaim April 2025 as Women in Law Month to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law and would encourage law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month, as provided.
This measure would proclaim April 2025 as Women in Law Month to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law and would encourage law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month, as provided.
WHEREAS, Women have made significant contributions to the legal profession and justice system in California, yet continue to face challenges in achieving full equality and representation; and
WHEREAS, The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures, such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, In 1942, Annette Abbott Adams broke new ground by becoming the first female justice in California when she was appointed presiding justice of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District; and
WHEREAS, As of 2023, women comprised only 28 percent of all law firm partners nationwide, highlighting the persistent gender disparity in leadership roles within the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, As of 2025, women make up approximately 50 percent of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions; and
WHEREAS, Despite progress, women in law continue to face obstacles such as gender bias, pay inequity, and work-life balance challenges that can hinder their career advancement and retention in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians; and
WHEREAS, Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped Californias legal landscape; and
WHEREAS, Mentorship programs and professional support networks play a crucial role in the advancement and retention of women in the legal profession, fostering leadership skills and career development; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in law can inspire future generations of female legal professionals and promote greater gender equality in the field; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law; and be it further
Resolved, That the Legislature encourages law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month by organizing events, programs, and initiatives that highlight the achievements of women in law and address ongoing challenges; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.
WHEREAS, Women have made significant contributions to the legal profession and justice system in California, yet continue to face challenges in achieving full equality and representation; and
WHEREAS, The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures, such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, In 1942, Annette Abbott Adams broke new ground by becoming the first female justice in California when she was appointed presiding justice of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District; and
WHEREAS, As of 2023, women comprised only 28 percent of all law firm partners nationwide, highlighting the persistent gender disparity in leadership roles within the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, As of 2025, women make up approximately 50 percent of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions; and
WHEREAS, Despite progress, women in law continue to face obstacles such as gender bias, pay inequity, and work-life balance challenges that can hinder their career advancement and retention in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians; and
WHEREAS, Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped Californias legal landscape; and
WHEREAS, Mentorship programs and professional support networks play a crucial role in the advancement and retention of women in the legal profession, fostering leadership skills and career development; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in law can inspire future generations of female legal professionals and promote greater gender equality in the field; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law; and be it further
Resolved, That the Legislature encourages law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month by organizing events, programs, and initiatives that highlight the achievements of women in law and address ongoing challenges; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.
WHEREAS, Women have made significant contributions to the legal profession and justice system in California, yet continue to face challenges in achieving full equality and representation; and
WHEREAS, The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures figures, such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, In 1942, Annette Abbott Adams broke new ground by becoming the first female justice in California when she was appointed presiding justice of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District; and
WHEREAS, As of 2023, women comprised only 28 percent of all law firm partners nationwide, highlighting the persistent gender disparity in leadership roles within the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, As of 2025, women make up approximately 50 percent of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions; and
WHEREAS, Despite progress, women in law continue to face obstacles such as gender bias, pay inequity, and work-life balance challenges that can hinder their career advancement and retention in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians; and
WHEREAS, Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped Californias legal landscape; and
WHEREAS, Mentorship programs and professional support networks play a crucial role in the advancement and retention of women in the legal profession, fostering leadership skills and career development; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in law can inspire future generations of female legal professionals and promote greater gender equality in the field; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law; and be it further
Resolved, That the Legislature encourages law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month by organizing events, programs, and initiatives that highlight the achievements of women in law and address ongoing challenges; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.
WHEREAS, Women have made significant contributions to the legal profession and justice system in California, yet continue to face challenges in achieving full equality and representation; and
WHEREAS, The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, In 1942, Annette Abbott Adams broke new ground by becoming the first female justice in California when she was appointed presiding justice of the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District; and
WHEREAS, As of 2023, women comprised only 28 percent of all law firm partners nationwide, highlighting the persistent gender disparity in leadership roles within the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, As of 2025, women make up approximately 50 percent of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions; and
WHEREAS, Despite progress, women in law continue to face obstacles such as gender bias, pay inequity, and work-life balance challenges that can hinder their career advancement and retention in the legal profession; and
WHEREAS, The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians; and
WHEREAS, Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped Californias legal landscape; and
WHEREAS, Mentorship programs and professional support networks play a crucial role in the advancement and retention of women in the legal profession, fostering leadership skills and career development; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in law can inspire future generations of female legal professionals and promote greater gender equality in the field; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law; and be it further
Resolved, That the Legislature encourages law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month by organizing events, programs, and initiatives that highlight the achievements of women in law and address ongoing challenges; and be it further
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.
|
Date
|
Status
|
|---|---|
| Apr 29, 2025 | Chaptered by Secretary of State. Res. Chapter 48, Statutes of 2025. |
| Apr 29, 2025 | Enrolled and filed with the Secretary of State at 2 p.m. |
| Apr 24, 2025 | In Senate. Ordered to engrossing and enrolling. |
| Apr 24, 2025 | Read. Adopted. (Ayes 75. Noes 0. Page 1282.) Ordered to the Senate. |
| Apr 21, 2025 | From committee: Be adopted. Ordered to consent calendar. (Ayes 10. Noes 0.) (April 21). |
| Apr 7, 2025 | Referred to Com. on RLS. |
| Apr 3, 2025 | In Assembly. Held at Desk. |
| Apr 3, 2025 | Read. Adopted. (Ayes 39. Noes 0. Page 641.) Ordered to the Assembly. |
| Apr 2, 2025 | Read second time. Ordered to third reading. |
| Apr 1, 2025 | Ordered to second reading. |
| Apr 1, 2025 | Read third time and amended. |
| Mar 26, 2025 | From committee: Ordered to third reading. |
| Mar 17, 2025 | Introduced. Referred to Com. on RLS. |
|
Date
|
Description
|
Location
|
Votes
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 24, 2025 | SCR 40 Blakespear Consent Calendar Second Day Regular Session | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| Apr 21, 2025 | Be adopted. To Consent Calendar. | Assembly Standing Committee on Rules |
Passed |
|
| Apr 3, 2025 | Senate 3rd Reading SCR40 Blakespear et al. | Senate Floor |
Passed |
This list shows positions taken on this bill by organizations on the date displayed, which is linked to the original source.
Positions by individuals are not included.
Date of Hearing: April 21, 2025
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON RULES
Blanca Pacheco, Chair
SBPCA Bill Id:SCR 40
Author:(Blakespear) – As Amended Ver:
SENATE VOTE:
SUBJECT: Women in Law Month
SUMMARY: Proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession, and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law. Specifically, this resolution makes the following legislative findings:
- Women have made significant contributions to the legal profession and justice system in California, yet continue to face challenges in achieving full equality and representation.
- The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures, such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession.
- As of 2023, women comprised only 28 percent of all law firm partners nationwide, highlighting the persistent gender disparity in leadership roles within the legal profession.
- As of 2025, women make up approximately 50 percent of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions.
- Despite progress, women in law continue to face obstacles such as gender bias, pay inequity, and work-life balance challenges that can hinder their career advancement and retention in the legal profession.
- The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians.
- Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped California’s legal landscape.
- Recognizing and celebrating the achievements of women in law can inspire future generations of female legal professionals and promote greater gender equality in the field.
FISCAL EFFECT: This resolution is keyed non-fiscal by Legislative Counsel.
REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:
Support
None on file
Opposition
None on file
Analysis Prepared by: Michael Erke / RLS. / (916) 319-2800
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 | SCR 40 |
THIRD READING
Bill No: SCR 40
Author: Blakespear (D), et al.
Amended: 4/1/25
Vote: 21
SUBJECT: Women in Law Month
SOURCE: Author
DIGEST:
This resolution proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law.
Senate Floor Amendments of 4/1/25 add coauthors to the resolution, and make technical changes.
ANALYSIS: This resolution makes the following legislative findings:
- Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped California’s legal landscape.
- The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures, such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession. As of 2025, women make up approximately 50% of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions.
- The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians.
This resolution proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law and would encourage law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month.
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 3/27/25)
None received
OPPOSITION: (Verified 3/27/25)
None received
Prepared by: Aizenia Randhawa / SFA / (916) 651-1520
4/2/25 15:50:19
**** END ****
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 | SCR 40 |
THIRD READING
Bill No: SCR 40
Author: Blakespear (D), et al.
Introduced: 3/17/25
Vote: 21
SUBJECT: Women in Law Month
SOURCE: Author
DIGEST:
This resolution proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month in California to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law.
ANALYSIS: This resolution makes the following legislative findings:
- Women in law have made substantial contributions to the advancement of civil rights, gender equality, and social justice, playing crucial roles in landmark cases and legislative reforms that have shaped California’s legal landscape.
- The history of women in law in California dates back to pioneering figures such as Clara Shortridge Foltz, who became the first female attorney in the state in 1878, paving the way for future generations of women in the legal profession. As of 2025, women make up approximately 50% of law school graduates in California, yet remain underrepresented in leadership positions within law firms, the judiciary, and other legal institutions.
- The inclusion of diverse women in the legal field, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities, brings invaluable perspectives, enriches the legal discourse, and enhances the quality of justice for all Californians.
This resolution proclaims April 2025 as Women in Law Month to honor the contributions of women to the legal profession and to promote continued efforts toward gender equality in the field of law and would encourage law firms, legal organizations, and educational institutions throughout California to commemorate Women in Law Month.
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 3/27/25)
None received
OPPOSITION: (Verified 3/27/25)
None received
Prepared by: Aizenia Randhawa / SFA / (916) 651-1520
3/27/25 15:58:05
**** END ****
Bill Author
