A faulty call-in system used by the California Assembly to facilitate public comment has caused problems during the COVID-19 pandemic, prompting requests by lawmakers to halt public testimony by phone.
The Assembly has expanded the ways it engages with the public during the pandemic, including live streaming committee meetings and encouraging the public to submit written testimony through its web portal. The Capitol building in Sacramento is open to the public for the meetings, but seating is limited—so the Assembly has strongly encouraged the call-in option.
