California Supreme Court Ruling Leaves Taxpayer Standing in Flux

A California Supreme Court ruling curtailed state taxpayers’ ability to bring lawsuits that typically challenge the constitutionality of laws and state government spending, spelling an uncertain future for several pending cases and many other challenges.

California courts have long allowed taxpayers to bring legal challenges without showing they’re personally harmed by a policy or action—simply being a California taxpayer is enough. Federal courts, on the other hand, have narrower requirements for standing.

The state court’s rules have allowed plaintiffs to sue immediately after the passage of certain state laws, alleging an improper use of taxpayer funds. The method’s been used ...