Welcome to the all-new CAALAC website. They say that the only constant in life is change, and, in the past few months, we have seen just how true that aphorism is. Like millions around the world, we at CAALAC began limiting our time away from our homes to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. As similar measures were taken around the world, it became clear that the times we are living in are unlike anything we’ve experienced in our lifetimes. The COVID-19 pandemic has made our usual monthly meetings impossible. However, the need for City Attorneys and the work they do has never been greater. Every day, we are being called upon to help our Cities navigate, what in many cases are uncharted waters brought about by the unique circumstances that each day presents us. We at CAALAC want to continue to provide periodic seminars (as well as moral support) to attorneys who practice municipal law in Los Angeles County. Because of this, we have turned our meetings/presentations virtual. Also, to further facilitate these meetings and possibly provide additional features, we have begun the website you see here.
Not only is our format keeping up with the times, but our content is too. Last month’s topic (“How to Tackle First Amendment Issues Amidst Shelter in Place Orders”) is a perfect example. Presenters Deborah J. Fox and Meg Rosequist of Meyers/Nave gave a fantastic presentation addressing various issues related to COVID-19 restrictions including the permissibility of curfews and dispersals orders amidst the pandemic and whether the wearing or refusal to wear a face mask is likely to be considered protected speech by the courts. A recording is available here:
https://www.meyersnave.com/event/how-to-tackle-first-amendment-issues-amidst-shelter-in-place-orders-navigating-a-city-attorneys-new-normal/.
We do not know how or when this tragedy will end. However, it is clear that it will have massive social and historical consequences. Because of this, in the coming months, we intend to continue providing presentations on important and relevant topics to assist our members in these unique and challenging times. Next week, Gail Karish of Best Best & Krieger will present a Communications Law Update: Ninth Circuit Ruling on FCC’s “5G” Small Cell Order and Other Developments.
Our thoughts are with those that are fighting the virus, with the doctors, nurses and other health care workers, and with everyone doing the essential jobs that keep our cities functioning. Best wishes and stay safe. We look forward to seeing you again in the future.
