If a statutory language does not yield a plain meaning, and the legislative history of the legislation is not to be considered in determining the meaning of the statute, can a court rely on the statute itself?

California, United States of America


The following excerpt is from Concerned Residents Of Hancock Park v. City Of Los Angeles, B208439, No. BS10696 (Cal. App. 2010):

statutory language does not yield a plain meaning, we may consider extrinsic evidence of intent, including the legislative history. (Mejia v. Reed, supra, at p. 663.) However, "[i]n determining the proper interpretation of a statute and the validity of an administrative regulation, the administrative agency's construction is entitled to great weight, and if there appears to be a reasonable basis for it, a court will not substitute its judgment for that of the administrative body. [Citations.]" (Ontario Community Foundations, Inc. v. State Bd. Of Equalization (1984) 35 Cal.3d 811, 816.)

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