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How to Get Appointed to a Board or Commission in California

Make an Impact in Your Community

Becoming an appointed member of a state or local board or commission is a meaningful way to serve your community, contribute your expertise, and help shape California's future. Your involvement can make a difference if you are passionate about education, public health, the environment, or other areas. This page is your guide to navigating the appointment process through the offices of the Governor, Speaker of the Assembly, and Senate President Pro Tempore.


Governor’s Appointments

The Governor’s Office appoints members to various California boards, commissions, and committees. These positions range from advisory to hands-on responsibilities and may include compensated, per diem, or volunteer opportunities.

How to Apply:

  • Browse Open Positions: The Governor’s Appointments Index provides a complete list of available positions and information on the type of compensation.
  • Start Your Application: To begin the application process, visit the Governor’s Application Portal. The site provides all the necessary forms and instructions.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the qualifications for each role, as outlined on the Governor’s website.

If you have questions about the application process, don't hesitate to contact the Governor's Office at (916) 445-4541 for assistance.


Speaker of the Assembly’s Appointments

The Speaker of the Assembly appoints members to boards and commissions focusing on healthcare, housing, public safety, and more. These appointments provide an opportunity to influence policies that directly impact Californians.

How to Apply:

  • Explore Opportunities: Visit the Speaker’s Appointment Page to see the available boards and commissions list.
  • Application Process: Find detailed instructions and start your application here.
  • Attend Informational Seminars: The Speaker’s Office offers seminars throughout the state to guide interested applicants through the process. For a schedule of upcoming workshops, contact the Speaker’s Appointment Office at Speaker.Appointments@asm.ca.gov.

Senate President Pro Tempore’s Appointments

The Senate President Pro Tempore appoints members to various boards and commissions focusing on statewide legislative priorities. These appointments are ideal for individuals passionate about impacting policy areas like economic development, transportation, and social justice.

How to Apply:

  • Currently, there is no dedicated website for Senate appointments. For more information on available positions and how to apply:
    • Contact the Senate Appointments Office: Call (916) 651-4151 for personalized guidance on the application process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What qualifications are needed to apply for an appointment?
A: Qualifications vary depending on the specific board or commission. Each office provides detailed eligibility requirements on their websites or can offer guidance over the phone.

Q: Are these positions paid?
A: Some appointments are compensated, while others are per diem or voluntary. Compensation details are usually specified in the position descriptions.

Q: How long does the appointment process take?
A: The timeline can vary depending on the position and the office responsible for the appointment. For the most accurate information, it's recommended to check the specific instructions on each website.


Need Assistance? Contact Us!

If you have additional questions or need help with the application process, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re here to support you every step of the way.