Agenda

This conference will explore what federalism means today, when it is no longer useful to describe positions on federalism issues as “liberal” or “conservative.” We will explore what federalism may mean in the future, and whether consensus exists on any fixed rules or boundaries. The day is divided between an opening framing panel and two topical panels, one focusing on federalism and environmental law (climate change, specifically) and the other focusing on federalism and immigration law. The Chief Justice of California will deliver the keynote address, and the program concludes with remarks by the Dean of Berkeley Law.

8:00-9:00 Registration and continental breakfast (Centennial Lobby, first floor)

9:00-10:30 How To Think About Federalism Now (Booth Auditorium)

This panel will address the conference’s main questions: What does federalism mean today, when the boundaries of federal and state power are sharply contested, but conventional “liberal” and “conservative” positions on federalism have faded? What will federalism likely mean in the future? Can people of diverse backgrounds and perspectives agree on what it should it mean?

Moderator Barry McDonald

Jamila Michener

Robert Pushaw

Gautham Rao

Fred Smith

Robert F. Williams

10:30-10:45 Break

10:45-12:00 Federalism and the Climate Change Problem (Booth Auditorium)

This panel will explore federalism’s implications for legal responses to climate change.

Moderator Jennifer Granholm

Eric Biber

Sean Donahue

Robert Gasaway

Craig Segall

Deborah Sivas

12:00-1:00 Informal boxed lunch (Room 105)

1:00-2:00 Keynote speaker Chief Justice of California Tani Cantil-Sakauye (Booth Auditorium)

In this interview-style Q&A conversation, the discussion will overview federalism concepts as they apply to state and federal court interactions, explore how federalism principles apply in state court decision making, and emphasize the importance of respecting the distinct roles of state and federal courts.

2:00-2:15 Break

2:15-3:30 Federalism and Immigration (Booth Auditorium)

This panel will explore federalism’s implications for immigration law and policy, specifically on border security, travel bans, and sanctuary cities.

Moderator: Meryl Chertoff

Dennis J. Herrera

Angela Chan

Ming Hsu Chen

John Yoo

3:30-4:00 Closing remarks Berkeley Law Dean Erwin Chemerinsky (Booth Auditorium)

4:00-5:30 Reception (Donor Lobby, second floor)