Nation’s Largest Bar to Become Two Under Pending Dues Bill

The nation’s largest bar is poised to privatize its voluntary sections and separate them from the bar’s regulatory and disciplinary functions under a bill (S.B. 36) unanimously adopted Sept. 12 and sent to Governor Jerry Brown (D).

Senate Bill 36 would require the bar to help the 16 voluntary sections incorporate as a private, nonprofit association that will provide continuing legal education. Lawmakers say the oversee regulation in a move will ensure that public safety takes priority over “distractions” from the 263,248-member agency’s core regulatory function.

“This is a critical new direction for the State Bar of California ...