AI Summary

This resolution, HR 81, officially proclaims the month of March 2026 as Women's History Month in California, recognizing the essential and often overlooked contributions of women throughout history to the nation and the state. It acknowledges women's groundbreaking achievements in various fields, their leadership in social change movements, and the ongoing need to address gender inequity. The resolution also highlights the origins of Women's History Week in 1978 and its subsequent establishment as National Women's History Month, emphasizing the importance of commemorating these accomplishments to benefit all by raising awareness. Finally, it directs the Chief Clerk of the Assembly to distribute copies of this proclamation to relevant organizations and individuals, including the Vice Chair of the California Legislative Women's Caucus and the Chair of the California Commission on the Status of Women and Girls, to further promote the observance

The press conference brought together consumer advocates, civil rights organizations, and privacy experts to underscore the urgency of protecting Californians’ personal information from misuse, exploitation, and sale without consent.

“Californians should not have to worry that their sensitive personal information is being sold to the highest bidder,” said Assemblymember Chris Ward. “From precise location data to deeply personal information, these bills work together to stop the sale of geolocation data, strengthen protections for sensitive information, and ensure government agencies are held to modern privacy standards. California led the nation on privacy once before, and we must continue to lead as technology evolves.”

Justin Brookman, Director of Tech Policy at Consumer Reports, warned that data-driven pricing and monetization practices are outpacing existing protections.

“People should not have to worry that their sensitive personal information is going to be sold to the highest bidder,” Brookman said. “The California Consumer Privacy Act was groundbreaking, but it needs to be updated to address the realities of the modern data ecosystem. Companies should use personal information like geolocation to deliver the services we ask for—not to secretly monetize it through data brokers.”

Advocates emphasized the heightened risks these practices pose to vulnerable communities.

“When businesses sell and trade sensitive personal information like precise location or immigration status, they open the door to surveillance, targeting, and exploitation. Those harms fall the hardest on the most vulnerable in our community, including immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking," said Lan Le, Policy Advocate at Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL). “These data privacy bills send a clear message: dignity and safety are rights, not commodities.”

Supporters also highlighted the need to modernize how public agencies handle personal data.

“In an era of increasing digital surveillance and data collection, it’s crucial that our privacy laws evolve,” said Rindala “Rin” Alajaji, Associate Director of State Affairs at the Electronic Frontier Foundation. “AB 1337 is a much-needed update to ensure local governments are held accountable for how they handle personal data.”

Tracy Rosenberg, Executive Director of Oakland Privacy, underscored how the measures work together.

“The bill duo of AB 1337 and AB 322 attacks our current dystopia in two vital ways,” Rosenberg said. “They modernize privacy protections, add transparency and limits around precise location data, and curb invasive practices that expose Californians to government and industry overreach.”

John Bennett, Initiative Director at CITED, emphasized the broader democratic stakes.

“Privacy and freedom of movement are cornerstones of a healthy democracy,” Bennett said. “It’s time to strengthen our data privacy laws and fulfill the promise of California’s constitutional right to privacy—so people can move, assemble, and participate in civic life without fear of surveillance.”

Ward’s legislative package builds on California’s landmark privacy framework to protect sensitive personal data, prohibit the sale of geolocation information, and ensure privacy rights keep pace with modern technology.

Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo’s Legislation to Protect Veterans Signed Into Law

Chair of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee Celebrates Major Victory for California veterans

SACRAMENTO, CA — Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, Chair of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee, today announced that the Protecting Veterans from Predatory Practices Act (SB 694) was signed into law, strengthening California’s protections for veterans and service members seeking the benefits they have earned.

The Protecting Veterans from Predatory Practices Act, authored by Senator Bob Archuleta and co-authored by Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo, was a top priority for Assemblywoman Schiavo. SB 694 stops illegal, deceptive and predatory practices by unaccredited companies who exploit veterans. These VA benefit claim sharks sometimes charge veterans as much as $20,000 for services that they can instead access for free from County Veteran Service Officers and other federally accredited organizations.

“As Chair of the Military and Veterans Committee and the daughter of a disabled veteran, alongside so many, we fought to protect disabled veterans from illegal fees charged by predatory claims sharks,” said Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo. “Veterans who earned their benefits through service and great sacrifice, deserve every penny. With the Governor’s signature of SB 694, we are making it clear that we will always protect our veterans and hold predators accountable.”

The Protecting Veterans from Predatory Practices Act brings California law into alignment with federal law and accreditation standards and strengthens enforcement tools to protect veterans from financial harm. It establishes clear guardrails to prevent illegal fees and financial exploitation by requiring individuals who assist with veterans’ benefits claims to meet federal accreditation standards. It also creates important privacy protections by restricting the misuse and sharing of veterans’ private data.

“Today, I am proud to stand with a coalition of veterans organizations in celebration of the signing of SB 694, legislation that continues our commitment to vigorously protect those who have sacrificed so much to protect us," said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Claim sharks pose a financial risk to veterans who need help with their benefits claims. SB 694 will degrade and deter the ability of these predatory individuals or companies to exploit veterans seeking help accessing their benefits. I thank Senators Archuleta and Cervantes, and Assemblywoman Schiavo, for authoring this legislation and Governor Newsom for signing it into law and making it clear: If you want to charge veterans for help with their benefits claims, you must be accredited by the VA."

“Veterans served this nation with honor and sacrifice, and they have earned every benefit their country owes them,” said Senator Bob Archuleta, Chair of the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs. “This legislation ensures veterans are protected from individuals who prey on their trust, their service, and their need for help. This law reinforces California’s commitment to honoring veterans with real, meaningful protections.”

The signing of the Protecting Veterans from Predatory Practices Act builds on California’s broader efforts to safeguard veterans, service members, and their families who call California home to ensure they receive the benefits that they have earned.

The Protecting Veterans from Predatory Practices Act takes effect on January 1, 2027.

###

Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo was elected to the California State Assembly in November of 2022 and re-elected in 2024 to represent the 40th Assembly District, representing the Northwest San Fernando Valley, Val Verde, Castaic and the Santa Clarita Valley. Upon her election, she was appointed as Assistant Majority Whip by the Speaker of the Assembly and now serves as Chair of the Assembly Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs. During her first term she brought back a record $93 million district investment in school and community safety, seniors meal programs, veteran housing, domestic violence services and creating local jobs. Prior to her election, Assemblywoman Schiavo was a Nurse Advocate and Small Business Owner who worked in the labor movement for more than 20 years. Throughout her career, Assemblywoman Schiavo helped deliver healthcare, including reproductive healthcare, to more than one million people. In the Northwest San Fernando Valley, she co-founded an organization that helped secure housing for Veterans experiencing homelessness, has delivered more than 50,000 meals to people in need, and increased resources to help keep our communities safe. Assemblywoman Schiavo lives in Chatsworth with her creative kid where they love to hike in the Santa Susana Mountains.

AB 238, the Mortgage Forbearance Act, provides essential relief to survivors of the Los Angeles Fires by allowing a pause on mortgage payments for up to a year. Fire victims entering into forbearance will not face any penalties or credit damage during the pause in payments. Importantly, the bill also prohibits lenders from requiring lump sum payments at the conclusion of the forbearance period, allowing homeowners to focus on rebuilding.

“For months since the fires, survivors have been forced to make two housing payments: one for their temporary rental accommodations and another mortgage payment for a house that either doesn’t exist anymore or is uninhabitable due to smoke and ash damage. AB 238 will ease the financial burden that too many families are facing by allowing them to pause their mortgage payments for up to a year while they get back on their feet,” said Assemblymember Harabedian (D-Pasadena).

After the fire, Assemblymember Harabedian worked with the Governor to secure initial commitments of 90-day forbearance periods from nearly 400 lenders in California. AB 238 takes effect immediately. If you encounter any difficulties with your servicer, please notify the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) which is charged with ensuring your rights under this new law are upheld. You can also contact Assemblymember Harabedian’s district office at (626) 351-1917 for assistance.

The Governor’s decision has brought us a step closer to recovery.

On his first day in office, Trump issued an executive order to deny citizenship for children of non-citizen parents. The order, which remains blocked by legal challenges, would strip an entire class of people of the right to vote, work lawfully, access federal benefits, and many other basic rights. It is estimated that 153,000 children nationwide, including 24,500 in California, would see their right to citizenship eliminated if the federal government implemented the executive order. 

“Birthright citizenship is a bedrock of the American Dream,” said Assemblymember Lee. “We cannot let one President and his cronies abuse their federal powers, undo our long-standing civil rights laws, and redefine who becomes a citizen. AJR 5 shows the nation that the California State Legislature is committed to defending birthright citizenship, and the deep-rooted legal precedent set by the landmark Supreme Court case of Wong Kim Ark.” 

Birthright citizenship is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment, which was ratified in 1868 following the Civil War. It ensured those who were formerly enslaved the right to citizenship and states: “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” 

Decades later, the Supreme Court Case of U.S. v. Wong Kim Ark in 1898 affirmed birthright citizenship to all those born in the U.S. During a period of anti-Asian racism, San Francisco-born Wong Kim Ark was prohibited from reentering the United States after traveling to China to visit family. Customs agents claimed he was not a citizen because his parents were unable to naturalize and ordered him to be deported. With legal support from the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of San Francisco, he took his case to the Supreme Court and won. 

In commemoration of the 127th anniversary of the case, AJR 5 honors Wong Kim Ark’s fight for the fundamental right of birthright citizenship, and the legacy that he leaves behind. The bill is sponsored by Chinese for Affirmative Action. 

“The threats from the federal administration have led to fear in many communities including mine,” said Assemblywoman Celeste Rodriguez. “We must do everything we can to safeguard families from separation and ensure children are supported. AB 495 is a critical tool that will preserve California’s families.”

Forty-five percent of California children have at least one immigrant parent. An estimated 1 million children in California have at least one undocumented parent, and approximately 133,000 children in California public schools are undocumented. This bill protects children in immigrant families by ensuring that families have safety plans in place in case of immigration enforcement actions.

Assemblywoman Rodriguez represents the 43rd Assembly District, which includes the City of San Fernando and communities across the Northeast San Fernando Valley, including Arleta, Sun Valley, Sylmar, Pacoima, Panorama City, North Hollywood, Lake View Terrace, Valley Glen, Mission Hills and North Hills.

SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson (D-Moreno Valley) has taken decisive action to address California’s housing crisis by authoring AB 317, the First Time Homeowner Act, a bill designed to boost affordable housing production by eliminating unnecessary regulatory delays. The legislation passed the Assembly Floor last week with strong bipartisan support and now heads to the Senate.

California faces a shortage of up to 2 million homes, driving the median price above $800,000. AB 317 directly addresses this by making it easier to build affordable starter homes, especially in underserved regions like the Inland Empire.

AB 317 creates a targeted exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for modest, first-time homebuyer developments. It applies to homes 1,500 square feet or less, with no more than three bedrooms, priced under $400,000, and built specifically for first-time buyers. By streamlining the approval process for these homes, the bill aims to increase supply and reduce costs for working families.

“This bill is a commitment to first-time homebuyers and to making California more affordable,” said Assemblymember Dr. Corey A. Jackson. “We can protect the environment and still cut through red tape that blocks families from owning a home. AB 317 is about building homes faster, affordable, and for the future of our communities.”

Dr. Jackson’s leadership directly challenges the idea that Democrats are not serious about lowering costs for Californians. AB 317 is a common-sense solution: build more homes, build them faster, and bring down prices through increased supply.

Torrance, CA – Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), Chair of the Assembly Education Committee, introduced Assembly Bill 49, a bill that would protect immigrant children from actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers who enter school sites or child care facilities. The bill would prohibit school or child care employees from allowing ICE officers to enter a school site or child care facility for any purpose without providing valid identification, a written statement of purpose, a valid judicial warrant, and approval from the school district's superintendent or director of the child care center. The bill also would require that if an ICE official meets the requirements to enter a school site or child care facility, their access would be restricted to school or child care facilities where students or children are not present.

"All children have a constitutional right to attend public schools, regardless of immigration status," stated Assemblymember Muratsuchi. "Unfortunately, the threat of federal immigration officials coming onto school grounds to detain undocumented students or family members casts a shadow of fear over all California students. Students cannot learn if they are living in fear of being deported or separated from their family members. This bill is necessary because children should not be afraid to come to school, and parents should not be afraid to send their children to school."

As during his first term, there is an increased fear of raids by ICE officials at schools and child care centers as President-elect Donald Trump is threatening to deport millions of undocumented immigrants across the United States. President-elect Trump has also threatened to eliminate the U.S. Department of Education. According to the California State Superintendent of Public Instruction's office, this closure would risk around $8 billion in federal funds for California programs serving students with disabilities and low-income students.

Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi represents California's 66th Assembly District, which includes El Segundo, Gardena, Hermosa Beach, Lomita, Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, San Pedro and Torrance. Muratsuchi is Chair of the Assembly Education Committee, Chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Aerospace, and a member of the Committees on Budget, Budget Subcommittee on Education, Higher Education, Natural Resources, and the Joint Legislative Committee on Climate Change Policies.

https://a42.asmdc.org/videos

California Volunteers (Ca Service Corps)

Josh Fryday

californiavolunteers

https://www.californiavolunteers.ca.gov/

https://look-west-how-california-is-leading-the-nation-22f6dfb5.simplecast.com/episodes/freshman-class-filled-with-moms-dads-teachers-doctors-and-more

https://look-west-how-california-is-leading-the-nation-22f6dfb5.simplecast.com/episodes/new-faces-join-the-assembly-democratic-caucus-in-2025

AB 2839 specifically prohibits the distribution of digitally altered election communications—including mailers, robocalls, and video advertisements—that present false or misleading information pertaining to an officer conducting an election, an elected official, voting equipment, or candidates running for office. The bill acts to safeguard the democratic process from the harmful effects of deceptive deepfake materials by targeting materially deceptive content that is distributed 120 days before an election.

The bill prohibits content that is likely to harm a candidate’s reputation or electoral prospects, or to falsely undermine confidence in the election outcome. Under AB 2839, recipients of such content can seek injunctive relief or damages from the distributor. Additionally, the bill mandates that deepfake parody material be clearly labeled as digitally manipulated.

“Signing AB 2839 into law is a significant step in continuing to protect the integrity of our democratic process,” stated Assemblymember Pellerin. “With fewer than 50 days until the general election, there is an urgent need to protect against misleading, digitally-altered content that can interfere with the election. By targeting deceptive deepfakes and ensuring transparency in parody content, we are reinforcing the public’s trust in our electoral system. I’m thankful that Governor Newsom signed this legislation to ensure that voters are equipped with the accurate information they need to make informed decisions this November.”

The bill will take effect immediately due to its urgency clause, ensuring its provisions are in place well before the November 5, 2024, general election. This timely action reflects California’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its elections and protecting voters from misleading information.

Existing law defines an electric bicycle and classifies electric bicycles into 3 classes with different restrictions. Under existing law, a “class 2 electric bicycle” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour. Under existing law, a “class 3 electric bicycle” is a bicycle equipped with a speedometer and a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour. Existing law prohibits a person under 16 years of age from operating a class 3 electric bicycle. Existing law requires a person operating, or riding upon, a class 3 electric bicycle to wear a helmet, as specified.

This bill would, until January 1, 2029, authorize a local authority within the County of Marin, or the County of Marin in unincorporated areas, to adopt an ordinance or resolution that would prohibit a person under 16 years of age from operating a class 2 electric bicycle or require a person operating a class 2 electric bicycle to wear a bicycle helmet, as specified. The bill would require an ordinance or resolution that is adopted for this purpose to make a violation an infraction punishable by either a fine of $25 or completion of an electric bicycle safety and training course, as specified. The bill would, if an ordinance or resolution is adopted, require the county to, by January 1, 2028, submit a report to the Legislature that includes, among other things, the total number of traffic stops initiated for violations, the results of the traffic stops, and the actions taken by peace officers during the traffic stops, as specified. The bill would require the local authority or county to administer a public information campaign for at least 30 calendar days prior to the enactment of the ordinance or resolution, as specified. The bill would require the local authority or county to only issue warning notices for the first 60 days after the passage of the ordinance or resolution.

Existing law defines an electric bicycle and classifies electric bicycles into 3 classes with different restrictions. Under existing law, a “class 2 electric bicycle” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour. Under existing law, a “class 3 electric bicycle” is a bicycle equipped with a speedometer and a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour. Existing law prohibits a person under 16 years of age from operating a class 3 electric bicycle. Existing law requires a person operating, or riding upon, a class 3 electric bicycle to wear a helmet, as specified. A violation of the Vehicle Code is a crime.

This bill would additionally prohibit a person under 16 years of age from operating a class 2 electric bicycle. The bill would require a person operating, or riding upon, a class 2 electric bicycle to wear a helmet, as specified. The bill would clarify that an electric bicycle can only be placed in a certain class if it ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches a max speed regardless of the mode.

Because the bill would prohibit certain persons from riding electric bicycles, the violation of which would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.

Digest Key

Vote: majority   Appropriation: no   Fiscal Committee: yesno   Local Program: yesno  

Bill Text

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1.

Section 21214.5 is added to the Vehicle Code, to read:

21214.5.

 (a) A local authority within the County of Marin, or the County of Marin in unincorporated areas, may, by ordinance or resolution, prohibit a person under 16 years of age from operating a class 2 electric bicycle.

(b) A local authority within the County of Marin, or the County of Marin in unincorporated areas, may, by ordinance or resolution, require a person operating a class 2 electric bicycle to wear a bicycle helmet, as described in subdivision (b) of Section 21213.

(c) An ordinance or resolution adopted pursuant to this section shall make a violation an infraction punishable by a fine of twenty-five dollars ($25) or completion of an electric bicycle safety and training course pursuant to Section 894 of the Streets and Highways Code.

(d) (1) If an ordinance or resolution is adopted pursuant to this section, the county shall, by January 1, 2028, submit a report to the Legislature that includes all of the following:

(A) The total number of traffic stops initiated for violations.

(B) The results of the traffic stops, including whether a warning or citation was issued, property was seized, or an arrest was made.

(C) The number of times a person was stopped for allegedly operating a class 2 electric bicycle while under 16 years of age but was found to be over the age limit.

(D) If a warning or citation was issued, a description of the warning or the violation cited.

(E) If an arrest was made, the offense cited by the officer for the arrest and the perceived race or ethnicity, gender, and approximate age of the person stopped, provided that the identification of these characteristics is solely based on the observation and perception of the peace officer who initiated the traffic stop.

(F) The actions taken by a peace officer during the traffic stops, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(i) Whether the peace officer asked for consent to search the person, and, if so, whether consent was provided.

(ii) Whether the peace officer searched the person or any property, and, if so, the basis for the search and the type of contraband or evidence discovered.

(iii) Whether the peace officer seized any property and, if so, the type of property that was seized and the basis for seizing the property.

(G) The number of times a person opted to complete, and did complete, the training course in lieu of paying the fine.

(H) The number of times that a person under 16 years of age was operating an electric bicycle and was involved in an accident that resulted in a permanent, serious injury, as defined in Section 20001, or a fatality in the six months prior to adoption of the ordinance or resolution, the cause of the accident, and the class of the electric bicycle that was being operated at the time of the accident.

(I) The number of times that a person under 16 years of age was operating an electric bicycle and was involved in an accident that resulted in a permanent, serious injury, as defined in Section 20001, or a fatality in the six months after adoption of the ordinance or resolution, the cause of the accident, and the class of the electric bicycle that was being operated at the time of the accident.

(2) A report submitted pursuant to this section shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code.

(e) A local authority or the County of Marin shall administer a public information campaign for at least 30 calendar days prior to the enactment of an ordinance or resolution pursuant to this section, including public announcements in major media outlets and press releases.

(f) A local authority or the County of Marin shall only issue warning notices for the first 60 days after the passage of an ordinance or resolution pursuant to this section.

(g) This section shall become inoperative on January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.

Existing law establishes various privacy requirements applicable to vehicle manufacturers, including limitations on the usage of images or video recordings from in-vehicle cameras in new motor vehicles equipped standard with one or more in-vehicle cameras. Existing law provides various protections to persons who are escaping from actual or threatened domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and other abuse, including providing for a means to keep the names and addresses of abuse survivors confidential in public records.

This bill would, among other things, require a vehicle manufacturer that offers a vehicle for sale, rent, or lease in the state that includes remote vehicle technology to do certain things, including ensure that the remote vehicle technology can be immediately manually disabled by a driver of the vehicle while that driver is inside the vehicle by a method that, among other things, is prominently located and easy to use and does not require access to a remote, online application. The bill would require a vehicle manufacturer to offer secure remote means via the internet for a survivor to submit a vehicle separation notice that meets specified requirements. The bill would define “survivor” to mean an individual who has a covered act committed, or allegedly committed, against the individual. The bill would define “covered act” to mean, among other things, certain crimes relating to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking.

This bill would require a survivor to submit a vehicle separation notice through the secure remote means described above within 7 days of the date on which the survivor used the method of manually disabling remote vehicle technology and would require the notice to include prescribed information, including a statement by the survivor signed under penalty of perjury that a perpetrator who has access to the remote vehicle technology in the vehicle has committed committed, or allegedly committed committed, a covered act against the survivor or an individual in the survivor’s care, or a copy of specified documents that support that the perpetrator has committed committed, or allegedly committed committed, a covered act against the survivor or an individual in the survivor’s care, including a signed affidavit from, among other specified individuals acting within the scope of their employment, a licensed medical care provider.

By requiring a survivor to submit a statement signed under penalty of perjury or requiring specified individuals to sign an affidavit, the bill would expand the crime of perjury and impose a state-mandated local program.

This bill would make a vehicle manufacturer that violates the above-described provisions liable in a civil action brought by a survivor for, among other things, reasonable attorney’s fees and costs of the prevailing survivor, in addition to any other remedy provided by law. The bill would specify that any waiver of the requirements of the above-described provisions is against public policy, void, and unenforceable. statutory damages in an amount not to exceed $50,000 or not to exceed $100,000 for a knowing violation.

This bill would define various terms for these purposes, purposes and would make related findings and declarations.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.

DIGEST KEY

Vote: majority   Appropriation: no   Fiscal Committee: yes   Local Program: yes  

BILL TEXT

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:

SECTION 1.

 The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

(a) Domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, sexual assault, human trafficking, and related crimes are life-threatening issues and have lasting and harmful effects on individuals, families, and entire communities.

(b) Survivors of violence and abuse often lack meaningful support and options when establishing independence from an abuser, including barriers of financial insecurity and limited access to reliable communication tools to maintain essential connections with family, social safety networks, employers, and support services.

(c) Perpetrators of violence and abuse increasingly use technological and communication tools to exercise control over, monitor, and abuse their victims.

(d) Remote vehicle technology, including mobile phone wireless connectivity and location data capabilities that are manufactured into vehicles, are among the technological and communication tools perpetrators of violence and abuse can, and have, used.

(e) According to The New York Times, “Modern vehicles have been called ‘smartphones with wheels’ because they are internet-connected and have myriad methods of data collection, from cameras and seat weight sensors to records of how hard you brake and corner. Most drivers don’t realize how much information their cars are collecting and who has access to it.”

(f) Under the federal Safe Connections Act of 2022, survivors of domestic abuse are empowered to protect themselves and their loved ones by requiring telecommunications providers, upon request, to separate their mobile phone accounts from the accounts of their abusers.

SEC. 2.

 Chapter 36.5 (commencing with Section 22948.60) is added to Division 8 of the Business and Professions Code, to read:

CHAPTER  36.5. Remote Vehicle Technology

22948.60.

 (a) For the purposes of this chapter:

(1) “Covered act” means conduct that is any of the following:

(A) A crime described in subsection (a) of Section 40002 of the federal Violence Against Women Act (34 U.S.C. Sec. 12291), including domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and sex trafficking.

(B) An act or practice described in paragraph (11) or (12) of Section 103 of the federal Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. Sec. 7102) relating to severe forms of trafficking in persons and sex trafficking, respectively.

(C) An act under state law, tribal law, or the Uniform Code of Military Justice (Chapter 47 (commencing with Section 801) of Title 10 of the United States Code) that is similar to an offense described in subparagraph (A) or (B).

(2) “Designated person” means a person who provides care to a survivor and meets both of the following criteria:

(A) The person has been authorized by the survivor to submit a request pursuant to subdivision (c) of Section 22948.61.

(B) The person did not commit, or did not allegedly commit, a covered act against the survivor.

(2)

(3) “Perpetrator” means an individual who has committed committed, or allegedly committed committed, a covered act against a survivor or an individual under the care of a survivor.

(3)

(4) “Remote vehicle technology” means any technology that allows a person who is outside of a vehicle to access the activity, track the location, or control any operation of the vehicle or its parts, that includes, but is not limited to, any of the following:

(A) A Global Positioning System (GPS).

(B) An app-based technology.

(C) Any other remote wireless connectivity technology.

(4)

(5) “Survivor” means an individual who meets either of the following criteria: has had a covered act committed, or allegedly committed, against the individual.

(A)The individual has had a covered act committed or allegedly committed against them.

(B)The individual provides care to an individual who has had a covered act committed or allegedly committed against, and that caretaker did not commit or allegedly commit the covered act.

(5)

(6) “Vehicle manufacturer” means a vehicle manufacturer or remanufacturer, as defined in Section 672 of the Vehicle Code.

(b) Subdivision (a) does not require a criminal conviction or any other determination of a court in order for conduct to satisfy a definition.

22948.61.

 (a) A vehicle manufacturer that offers a vehicle for sale, rent, or lease in the state that includes remote vehicle technology shall do all of the following:

(1) Ensure that the remote vehicle technology can be immediately manually disabled by a driver of the vehicle while that driver is inside the vehicle by a method that meets all of the following criteria:

(A) The method of manually disabling the remote vehicle technology shall be is prominently located and easy to use and shall does not require access to a remote, online application.

(B) Upon its use, the method of manually disabling the remote vehicle technology shall inform informs the user of the requirements of subdivision (b).

(C) The method of manually disabling the remote vehicle technology shall does not require a password or any log-in information.

(D) Upon its use, the method of manually disabling the remote vehicle technology shall does not result in the remote vehicle technology, vehicle manufacturer, or a third-party service provider sending to the registered owner of the car an email, telephone call, or any other notification related to the remote vehicle technology being disabled.

(E) Upon its use, the method of manually disabling the remote vehicle technology shall cause causes the remote vehicle technology to be disabled for a minimum of seven days and capable of being reenabled only by the vehicle manufacturer pursuant to paragraph (4).

(2) Offer secure remote means via the internet for a survivor to submit a vehicle separation notice that includes a prominent link on the vehicle manufacturer’s internet website that meets both of the following requirements:

(A) The link is titled, in bold and capital letters, “CALIFORNIA SURVIVOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ASSISTANCE.”

(B) The link provides a designated internet website portal that provides a survivor the ability to submit a vehicle separation notice and includes a form that enables a survivor to submit the information required by subdivision (b).

(3) Upon the request of a survivor, reset the remote vehicle technology with a new secure account and delete all data from the original account.

(4) Reenable the remote vehicle technology only if the registered owner of the car notifies the manufacturer that the remote vehicle technology was disabled in error, and a survivor has not contacted the vehicle manufacturer to provide the information required by subdivision (b) within seven days of the remote vehicle technology being disabled.

(b) A survivor shall submit a vehicle separation notice to a vehicle manufacturer through the means provided by the vehicle manufacturer pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) within 7 days of the date on which the survivor used the method of manually disabling remote vehicle technology required by subdivision (a), which shall include the vehicle identification number of the vehicle and either of the following:

(1) A statement by the survivor signed under penalty of perjury that a perpetrator who has access to the remote vehicle technology in the vehicle has committed committed, or allegedly committed committed, a covered act against the survivor or an individual in the survivor’s care.

(2) A copy of either of the following documents that supports that the perpetrator has committed committed, or allegedly committed committed, a covered act against the survivor or an individual in the survivor’s care:

(A) A signed affidavit from any of the following individuals acting within the scope of that person’s employment:

(i) A licensed medical or mental health care provider.

(ii) A licensed military medical or mental health care provider.

(iii) A licensed social worker.

(iv) A victim services provider.

(v) A licensed military victim services provider.

(B) A copy of any of the following documents:

(i) A police report.

(ii) A statement provided by the police, including military police, to a magistrate judge or other judge.

(iii) A charging document.

(iv) A protective or restraining order, including military protective orders.

(v) Any other relevant document that is an official record.

(c) (1) Only if, for technological reasons, a vehicle manufacturer is unable to comply with paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), the vehicle manufacturer shall create a conspicuous mechanism that is easy to use by which a survivor or a designated person can submit a request to disable a vehicle’s remote vehicle technology.

(2) A vehicle manufacturer shall disable remote vehicle technology within one business day after receiving a request from a survivor that includes the information required by subdivision (b) and is submitted pursuant to the mechanism required by paragraph (1).

(d) This section does not authorize or require a vehicle manufacturer to verify ownership of a vehicle, the identity of a survivor, or the authenticity of information that is submitted by the survivor.

22948.62.

 (a) In addition to any other remedy provided by law, a vehicle manufacturer that violates Section 22948.61 shall be liable in a civil action brought by a survivor for all of the following:

(1) Reasonable attorney’s fees and costs of the prevailing survivor.

(2) A civil penalty Statutory damages in an amount not to exceed fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) per violation, or a civil penalty statutory damages in an amount not to exceed one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) per violation for knowing violations.

(3) Actual damages or three times the amount at which the actual damages are assessed for knowing or reckless violations.

(b) Any waiver of the requirements of this chapter shall be against public policy, void, and unenforceable.

SEC. 3.

 No reimbursement is required by this act pursuant to Section 6 of Article XIII B of the California Constitution because the only costs that may be incurred by a local agency or school district will be incurred because this act creates a new crime or infraction, eliminates a crime or infraction, or changes the penalty for a crime or infraction, within the meaning of Section 17556 of the Government Code, or changes the definition of a crime within the meaning of Section 6 of Article XIII B of the California Constitution.

Los Angeles, CA – Today, Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo unveiled Assembly Bill (AB) 1950, the Chavez Ravine Accountability Act, which aims to address the historical injustice faced by those living in the Chavez Ravine in Los Angeles, a predominately Latino community. Authored by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo and sponsored by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, AB 1950 would acknowledge and rectify the displacement of these communities in the 1950s, offering a path toward historical accountability, reparative measures, and a permanent memorial honoring their legacy.

“AB 1950, the Chavez Ravine Accountability Act aims to correct an injustice that displaced families and has lingered in the shadows of Los Angeles Eastside history for far too long. Amid the 1950s, the vibrant community of Chavez Ravine, home to mostly Mexican-American families, as well as Italian-American and Chinese-American, saw an upheaval as families were uprooted and displaced in the name of progress. Families were promised a return to better housing, but instead, they were left destitute,” said Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles).  “For generations, Chavez Ravine stood as a beacon of hope and resilience, embodying the dreams and aspirations of families who built their lives within its embrace. With this legislation, we are addressing the past, giving voice to this injustice, acknowledging the pain of those displaced, offering reparative measures, and ensuring that we honor and remember the legacy of the Chavez Ravine community."

Chavez Ravine was named after Julian Chavez, a rancher who served as assistant mayor, city councilmember, and, eventually, as one of L.A. County's first supervisors in the mid-1800s. Chavez Ravine as we currently know it, was established in the early 1900s, encompassed approximately 315 acres, and had three main neighborhoods — Palo Verde, La Loma, and Bishop. By the 1950s, this area was home to generations of predominantly Mexican Americans.

Residents, many of whom were working-class families, built a strong sense of community, with local businesses, churches, and social organizations thriving in the area. In the 1950s, the City of Los Angeles initiated plans to acquire land in Chavez Ravine under the guise of building public housing. However, it ultimately abandoned these plans and instead sold the land to a private developer who built Dodger Stadium on the site. This displacement forced more than 1,800 families from their homes and businesses, scattering a close-knit community and leaving a lasting impact on their lives and livelihoods.

"AB 1950 is about confronting a historical injustice and ensuring Angelenos understand the true story of Chavez Ravine," said Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, one of the bill's sponsors. "Only by acknowledging the past can we work towards a more just and equitable future for all communities in Los Angeles."

“The unjust seizure of land from the longtime residents of these three communities in the Chavez Ravine neighborhood is a chapter in our city’s history that we cannot rewrite,” said Alfred Fraijo, Jr., Latino community leader. “Our homes are central to our livelihood and sense of being—and often the most important asset in the building of generational wealth. Belated as it may be, we hope this legislation will begin a larger conversation about how to restore justice to all those who bear the scars of social, racial, and economic discrimination, and create an opportunity for healing and reconciliation for all Angelenos.”

Specifically, if enacted into law, AB 1950 would result in:

• Historical Accountability: Mandates a comprehensive report detailing events surrounding the land acquisition and displacement, and makes it publicly available to foster transparency and education about this pivotal moment in Los Angeles' history.
• Reparative Measures: Proposes various forms of compensation, including offering City-owned real estate comparable to the original Chavez Ravine landowners or providing fair market value compensation adjusted for inflation. It also creates pathways for displaced non-landowning residents to receive relocation assistance, healthcare access, employment support, educational opportunities, and other forms of compensation deemed appropriate by a newly established Task Force.
• Permanent Memorial: Requires the construction of a memorial on Chavez Ravine or adjoining property to honor the displaced residents and their legacy.

It is important to note AB 1950 focuses solely on the displaced community of Chavez Ravine and does not involve the Los Angeles Dodgers or Dodger Stadium.

The measure will be heard in the Assembly’s Judiciary Committee. The text of the measure can be found at: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=202320240AB1950

###

About Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo

Assemblywoman Carrillo was elected to serve in the State Assembly in December 2017. She represents the 52nd Assembly District, which includes East Los Angeles, the City of Los Angeles, and South Glendale. She serves on the Assembly Committees on Appropriations, Emergency Management, Health, Labor and Employment, and the Joint Committee on Climate Change Policies. She also serves as the Chair of the Select Committee on Latina Inequities, Vice Chair of the Legislative Progressive Caucus, Commissioner for the California Film Commission, Commissioner for the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, and Member of the California Cultural and Historical Endowment Board.

About Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara

Using every tool at his disposal, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara's goal is to safeguard the integrity of the state’s insurance market composed of consumers, drivers, homeowners, and businesses. He is focused on addressing decades-long neglected issues and taking on powerful, entrenched special interests to make insurance more available, which in turn will lead to greater affordability.

Led by Commissioner Lara, the California Department of Insurance is the consumer protection agency for the nation's largest insurance marketplace, safeguarding all of the state’s consumers by fairly regulating the insurance industry. Under the Commissioner’s direction, the Department uses its authority to protect Californians from insurance rates that are excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory. The Department oversees insurance company solvency to pay claims, set standards for agents and broker licensing, perform market conduct reviews of insurance companies, resolve consumer complaints, and investigate and prosecute insurance fraud.

Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson emphasized the importance of AB 2229, stating, "It's crucial that we provide our students with accurate and comprehensive sexual health education that includes menstrual health. By addressing this gap in our curriculum, we can empower young people to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Additionally, educating students about menstruation can help break down stigmas and taboos, promoting healthier attitudes and outcomes."

"My period should never have been shrouded in mystery, nor should I have suffered in silence due to misinformation and shame,” said Sriya Srinivasan, sponsor and Solano Community College student trustee. “Passing AB 2229, we have the opportunity to provide relief and empowerment to thousands of students"

The California Healthy Youth Act (AB 329) has been pivotal in ensuring middle and high school students receive comprehensive sexual health education since its enactment in 2016. However, despite its comprehensive nature, the existing curriculum fails to explicitly address menstrual health. This gap in the curriculum means that many students in California are missing critical information about menstrual health, which is essential for reducing stigma and increasing awareness within the community.

Assembly Bill 2229 seeks to rectify this by adding the definition of "Menstrual Health" to the curriculum, ensuring students receive information about the menstrual cycle, premenstrual syndrome and pain management, menstrual disorders, menstrual irregularities, menopause, menstrual stigma, and other relevant topics. This aligns with federal policy and underscores the need for comprehensive menstrual health education to be integrated into the existing sexual health curriculum.

2024 #1 Priority Legislation

AB 1955 (Ward, LGBTQ Caucus) – SAFETY Act
The Support Academic Futures & Educators for Today’s Youth Act (SAFETY Act), would strengthen existing California protections against forced outings of LGBTQ+ students in schools; provide critical resources for parents and families of LGBTQ+ students to support them in working towards family acceptance on their own terms; and provide additional protections to educators who face retaliatory actions from administrators and school boards for seeking to create an inclusive and safe school environment.

2024 Priority “Sponsored” Legislation

AB 1899 (Cervantes) – Gender-Inclusive Jury Questionnaires
This bill requires Judicial Council to create a template juror questionnaire that is inclusive of gender expression and identity.

AB 1979 (Ward) – Doxing Victims Recourse Act
This bill provides recourse for victims who have been harmed as a result of being doxed by allowing a victim to pursue civil action to receive restitution for the harms endured as a result of being doxed.

AB 2258 (Zbur) – Protecting Access to Preventive Services
The bill codifies longstanding federal guidance that health plans and insurers must cover services that are integral to providing recommended preventive care – including anesthesia and polyp removal during a colonoscopy; placement, management, and removal of long-acting reversible contraceptives; and, ancillary and support services for PrEP including HIV and other STI screening – without cost sharing.

AB 2442 (Zbur) – Expedited Medical Licensure for Gender-Affirming Care
This bill requires the expedited processing of licensure applications by the Medical Board of California, the Osteopathic Medical Board of California, the Board of Registered Nursing, the Physician Assistant Board, the Board of Behavioral Sciences, and the Board of Psychology for applicants demonstrating a commitment to providing gender-affirming health care or gender-affirming mental health care services within their licensed scope of practice.

AB 2477 (Zbur) – Foster Care Cash Savings
This bill permits youth transitioning to adulthood from foster care the chance to grow the best financial safety net possible by updating state law to clarify that young adults have the ability to accumulate cash savings while in foster care.

AB 2498 (Zbur) – California Housing Security Act
This bill aims to prevent individuals from falling into homelessness by providing rent subsidies to a range of rent-burdened populations, including former foster youth, older adults, adults with disabilities, people experiencing unemployment or homelessness, and recently incarcerated people.

AB 3031 (Lee and Low) – Statewide LGBTQ+ Commission
This bill establishes a Statewide LGBTQ+ Commission to serve as a state-level focal point for identification of key issues for the Caucus to prioritize in the future.

SB 11 (Menjivar) – California State University Mental Health [Two-Year Bill]
This bill would require the CSU to decrease the ratio of students to mental health counselors to address increased student needs and work to create a pipeline for CSU students to become mental health professionals. Also, this bill would increase data collection on CSU’s mental health services and student wellbeing.

SB 729 (Menjivar) – Health Care Coverage for Infertility and Fertility Treatment [Two-Year Bill]
This bill would expand access to fertility care for Californians, including coverage for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Also, this bill would revise the definition of infertility to ensure same-sex couples are covered by health care insurance and are treated without discrimination.

SB 954 (Menjivar) – Youth Health Equity + Safety (YHES) Act This bill seeks to address the sexually transmitted infection (STI) epidemic among California youth and improve equitable public health outcomes statewide by expanding teen access to condoms in schools and communities.

SB 957 (Wiener) – SOGI Data Collection
This bill requires the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to collect sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data from third-party entities, including local health jurisdictions, on any forms or electronic data systems, unless prohibited by federal or state law. The bill also requires CDPH to provide an annual report to the public and to the Legislature on its efforts to collect, analyze, and report SOGI data.

SB 959 (Menjivar) – TGI Resources Website
This bill establishes an online resource for transgender, gender diverse, and intersex (TGI) people and their families to combat misinformation and provide accurate information about access to trans-inclusive health care, existing legal protections for patients and health care providers, and other available support services.

SB 990 (Padilla) – LGBTQ+ Disaster Relief Plans
This bill requires Cal-OES to consult with LGBTQ+ organizations and advocates in the community when creating the State Disaster Plan.

SB 1278 (Laird) – World AIDS Day
This bill enshrines December 1st as World AIDS Day, a day globally recognized in solidarity with people affected by HIV.

SB 1333 (Eggman) – HIV Data Sharing
This bill requires state and local health department employees and contractors to annually sign the agreement and would repeal the annual review of the agreements. Additionally, this bill authorizes disclosure to other local, state, or federal public health agencies or to medical researchers when confidential information is necessary for the coordination of, linkage to, or reengagement in care for the person.

SB 1491 (Eggman) – LGBTQ+ Higher Education Equity
This bill, beginning with the 2026–27 school year, requires the Student Aid Commission to provide a written notice to students who receive state financial aid regarding whether their postsecondary educational institution has an exemption from either the Equity in Higher Education Act or Title IX on file with the commission.

2024 Endorsed “Supported” Legislation

AB 1810 (Bryan) – Incarcerated Peoples’ Menstrual Products
Caucus Co-Author: Assemblymember Zbur This bill ensures that any incarcerated person and/or youth who menstruates or experiences uterine or vaginal bleeding has ready access to, is allowed to use, and continues to use materials necessary for personal hygiene without having to request them.

AB 1825 (Muratsuchi) – The California Freedom to Read Act
Caucus Principal Co-Author: Assemblymember Ward This bill prohibits public libraries from banning books based on partisan or political reasons, view point discrimination, gender, sexual identity, religion, disability, or on the basis that the books contain inclusive and diverse perspectives.

AB 3161 (Bonta) – Equity in Health Care Act: Ensuring Safety and Accountability
Caucus Co-Author: Assemblymember Jackson This bill requires hospitals to analyze patient safety events by sociodemographic factors, like race, ethnicity, language, sexual orientation, and disability status. This will allow us to see the disparities in health that communities of color and LGBTQ communities are facing. Additionally, AB 3161 requires hospital safety plans to include a process for addressing racism and discrimination and its impacts on patient health and safety.

SB 1022 (Skinner) – Defending Housing, Employment, and Other Civil Rights Violations
Caucus Co-Author: Senator Wiener This bill empowers the Civil Rights Department (CRD) to stop systemic workplace discrimination by doing the following: (1) Clarify that deadlines that apply to individual complaints do not apply to complaints initiated by CRD or to group/class claims being prosecuted by CRD; (2) Allow CRD to rectify longrunning civil rights violations for the benefit of all victims, not only recent victims; (3) Allow CRD to pause investigations when the parties agree; and, (4) Allow housing discrimination cases to be brought in any county where CRD has an office.

May Revise Budget Priorities

Preserve all funding for the LBTQ Women’s Health Equity Initiative Fund within CDPH Office of Health Equity’s Gender Health Equity Section by authorizing existing funds to transfer from FY23/24 to FY24/25.

Reject proposed cuts to the CYBHI – Public Education and Change Campaign funding within CDPH Office of Health Equity to ensure LGBTQ+ preventive mental health programs are prioritized including local LGBTQ organizations and the statewide LGBTQ campaign, and replace proposed cuts with a more equitable level of funding reduction.

Reject proposed cuts for “The Future of Public Health” initiative at CDPH Office of Health Equity to ensure LGBTQ community services within local health departments are supported for sexual health and harm reduction programs.

Support requested expenditure authority of $725,000 with Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to support addition of intersexuality to voluntary self-identification information to be collected by state departments and entities, pursuant to the requirements of AB 1163 (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Disparities Reduction Act).

Support requested expenditure authority of $710,000 with Department of Public Health (CDPH) to implement system changes to collect voluntary self identification information pertaining to intersexuality in the course of collecting demographic data, pursuant to the requirements requirements of AB 1163 (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Disparities Reduction Act).

Support requested expenditure authority of $718,000 with Health Care Access and Information (HCAI) to to support implementation of required planning by hospitals for increasing the diversity of procured vendors, pursuant to the requirements of AB 1392 (Rodriguez), Chapter 840, Statutes of 2023.

Priority Budget Requests (In Alphabetical Order)

ADAP Rebate Fund Loan Reduction & Modernizations – This budget request reduces the Governor’s proposed $500 million loan from the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) Rebate Fund to the General Fund (GF) to $250 million, of which $5 million of the loaned ADAP-to-GF must go towards SB 954 (Menjivar, 2024), the YHES Act. Additionally, this budget request seeks the following modernizations to ADAP: (1) ADAP and PrEP-AP eligibility increase from 500% Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to 600% FPL – $3.5 million (one-time); (2) Harm Reduction Clearinghouse Increase: $10 million (one-time); (3) Health Insurance Premium Payment Cap on Premium Payments Lift: $3.5 million (one-time) & $7 million (ongoing); (4) TGI Wellness and Equity Fund: $5 million (ongoing); and, (5) Needs assessments and analyses for both gap identification of client navigation and retention services, as well as PrEP Navigation Program: $400 thousand (onetime).

California Coalition of Transgender Immigrants – This budget request seeks $250,000 in funding to be divided into three programs to help bring equity, justice, and inclusion for Transgender, Gender NonConforming, and Intersex (TGI) immigrants: (1) Trans Immigrant Asylee program – $150,000; (2) Trans Inter-Sectional Unity program – $50,000; and, (3) Trans Emerging Leadership and Artist program – $50,000.

Raise-A-Child Foster Family Recruitment & Retention Expansion – This budget request seeks $1 million in funding to accelerate the expansion of Raise-A-Child services throughout California to go towards: (1) Recruitment Promotion Campaigns; (2) Community Events and Engagement; (3) Virtual Information and Orientation Sessions; and, (4) Technical Assistance and Support.

Renewal of Preservation of LGBTQ+ History Program Historical Archives – This budget request seeks to renew previously allocated funding for the “Preservation and Accessibility of California’s LGBTQ+ History Program,” which is a competitive grant program that is administered by the California State Library. This program supports LGBTQ+ archives of all sizes for projects that work to preserve and make publicly accessible collections relevant to the LGBTQ+ movement, culture, experience, and/or history in California, as well as provides vital information services, including research opportunities, youth engagement, and academic enrichment. Specifically, this San Francisco Harvey Milk Plaza ADA Updates – This budget request seeks to invest $5 million in funding to be used towards the installation of a new ADA-compliant main stair and a new escalator to access the entrance to the Castro Muni Station for Harvey Milk Plaza. AB 1955 (Ward, LGBTQ Caucus) – SAFETY Act

The chair of the California Legislative Renters Caucus, Matt Haney (D-San Francisco) has introduced legislation that prohibits blanket pet bans in rental units in California. AB 2216 will require landlords to have reasonable reason(s) for not allowing a pet in a rental unit and only allows landlords to ask about pet ownership after a tenant’s application has been approved.

California has the second highest number of tenants in the country, with 17 million families and individuals renting — close to 12 million, or 70% of these renters are pet owners. Unfortunately only under current law only 30% of available rentals in any given city are pet friendly. In San Francisco only 21% of the available rentals currently on the market allow for pets. Similarly, despite having close to 3 million pet owning renters, only 26% of Los Angeles rentals allow for pets.

“One of our main strategies to address the housing crisis has been building more housing,” said Assemblymember Haney. “We have to keep building housing, and much faster, but we won’t be able to solve this crisis if 12 million people across the state are being denied access to that housing because they have a companion pet.  The majority of renters in our state, pet owners, are denied access to the majority of rental units. That makes no sense at all and it's dramatically exacerbating the housing crisis.” 

The lack of pet friendly housing is causing more than 829,000 tenants to have pets in their units without the knowledge of their landlord. This leaves landlords without adequate coverage for potential damages that could be mitigated if they knew their tenants had a pet such as pet insurance, or reasonable pet restrictions.

“My partner and I searched for over a month for a 2 bedroom rental unit that would allow for my small cattle dog mix,” said Andrea Amavisca, a Sacramento resident.

“Landlords that initially liked our application would suddenly stop answering our calls once they found out we had a dog. Or others would require a pet deposit close to $1,000 that would put the unit totally out of our budget. Every rental had a different pet policy with fees that varied based on discretion. It felt unfair.”

“Like it or not humans have pets, they always have and they always will,” said Haney. “Blanket no companion pet policies are causing landlords to miss out on good tenants who get rejected without even getting a chance to apply for a place to live. The current system is bad for everyone.”

“Along with millions of pet owners across California, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) firmly believes that household pets are an integral part of our families.  Housing is a fundamental right that should not be limited because tenants are forced to choose between keeping their pet or putting a roof over their head,” said Jenny Berg, California State Director of the Humane Society of the United States. “As we’ve shown through our prior legislative efforts, HSUS supports removing barriers to accessing housing, like unnecessary and unwarranted pet restrictions, and are proud to sponsor AB 2216 with Assemblymember Haney.” 

Many tenants are being forced to surrender their pets to already overrun shelters that don’t have adequate resources to take care of more animals. A survey of 240 California based shelters revealed that 67,881 pets were surrendered by their owners, with the leading cause being a lack of access to pet friendly housing.

The 11 Committee members are:

Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (D-Hollywood) – Committee Chair
Assemblymember Juan Alanis (R-Merced & Stanislaus)
Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego)
Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda & San Francisco)
Assemblymember Vince Fong (R-Kern & Tulare)
Assemblymember Matt Haney (D-San Francisco)
Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento)
Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-Alameda)
Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco (D-Los Angeles & Orange)
Assemblymember Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Orange)
Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Los Angeles)

Retail theft – which encompasses shoplifting, commercial burglary, and commercial robbery– has seen an alarming rise in California, most notably, but not exclusively, in the Bay Area, the Central Valley, and Los Angeles County. Currently, Los Angeles County has the highest rate of commercial robbery, which is a violent crime defined as theft involving the threat or use of force. Commercial burglary has increased statewide, becoming the most common type of retail theft in recent years, and is at its highest rate since 2008. In 2022, Kern, San Francisco, and Fresno experienced the highest rates of commercial burglary, and rates in Fresno, Alameda, and Orange Counties were 50 percent higher than before the pandemic.

In 2023, the Governor and Legislature, recognizing the gravity of this issue, awarded the largest-ever single investment to combat organized retail crime in California history — sending over $267 million to 55 cities and counties to increase arrests and prosecutions for organized retail crime. The funding, part of the Governor's Real Public Safety Plan, was dispersed on October 1, 2023, to 34 police departments, 7 sheriffs' departments, one probation department, and 13 district attorney offices to prevent and investigate cases of organized retail theft and arrest and prosecute more suspects. The Select Committee on Retail Theft will review and explore additional policy solutions to address the crisis.

"Californians have had enough of these smash-and-grab crimes and shameless shoplifting incidents," Speaker Rivas said. "They're appalling and affect everyone. The Assembly understands we must do more to address root causes, protect businesses owners and fight criminal activity. It's my expectation that the Retail Theft select committee will act with focus and urgency."

"I applaud and thank Speaker Rivas for prioritizing this important issue," said Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur. "We are seeing increasing store closures across the state attributed to shoplifting, as well as commercial burglary and commercial robbery. Widespread retail theft is not only bad for business and a source of shopper inconvenience – it's an issue of safety, and the perception of safety, for workers, business owners, and the public. Speaker Rivas and members of the Assembly are committed to responding with smart and effective solutions to this trend of retail thefts and organized crime, and the Select Committee is ready to get to work."

The Select Committee on Retail Theft will convene this fall and continue its work through the 2024 legislative session.

on whose land the state Capitol now stands

State marks Native American Heritage Month by unveiling 10th

tribute in the park commemorating California heroes & protectors

SACRAMENTO—On a cool, breezy Sacramento morning, more than 400 tribal members, dignitaries and students gathered to unveil the first-ever Capitol monument acknowledging tribes residing in California and their millennia-long, resilient presence on land now known as California.

The historic tribute specifically recognizes the Sacramento region tribes of Wilton Rancheria, Ione Band of Miwok Indians, Chicken Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians, Tuolumne Band of Me-Wuk Indians, Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians, and Shingle Springs Band of Miwok Indians.

The new monument is the tenth addition to a park memorializing California’s firefighters, veterans, and public safety officers. It is the first addition to the park since 2009, when the statue of Thomas Starr King was brought to California from Boston. King was a Civil War-era minister, orator, and abolitionist. The park was envisioned in 1863 as a place to reflect and celebrate the state’s history and natural beauty, according to the Capitol Park website. 

Assemblymember James C. Ramos—first California Native American elected to the Legislature since statehood in 1850—authored AB 338 in 2021, which authorized the monument.

Ramos said, “This monument—now a centerpiece of Capitol Park—adds a new and long overdue chapter to California’s relationship with its tribes. As a state, we are beginning to tell our history from a broader, more complete, and accurate perspective by including the voice of California Native Americans.” He added, “As Native Americans, we have been invisible, romanticized, minimized, or disparaged for centuries. That is not easily or quickly undone. But today I am proud to be Native American and proud to be a Californian.”

The Miwok skirt dancer portrayed in the monument is modeled after William J. Franklin Sr., the late respected Miwok leader and cultural dancer. Franklin played a critical role in preserving Miwok dances and traditions, and helped build three Northern California roundhouses, dedicated spaces for Native American ceremonies, songs, dances, and gatherings. Sacramento sculptor Ronnie Frostad designed the project.

“Mr. Franklin was a teacher of Native culture and he understood that our stories, songs, and culture need to be shared and taught to new generations,” Ramos said. “He would have been pleased to see so many students here, of all ages—and particularly proud to see students from a school recently named Miwok.” Until June, Miwok Middle School was named after John Sutter, who enslaved Native people during California’s Gold Rush period.

Wilton Rancheria Chairman Jesus Tarango stated, “Today’s unveiling signifies the start of a new era at the California State Capitol. One where we stop uplifting a false narrative and start honoring the original stewards of this land by telling a true and accurate portrayal of California’s journey to statehood. 

“Every tribe across the state has their own Bill Franklin, a leader who fought to keep our cultures and traditions alive during a time where it was dangerous to do so. This monument serves to thank and honor each one of them.

“It also celebrates the power California Tribes have when we work together to achieve a common goal. I would like to thank my fellow Tribal Leaders and Assemblymember Ramos for their collaboration throughout this legislative process.”

Sara Dutschke, chairperson of the Ione Band of Miwok Indians, applauded the joint tribal effort. “AB 338 [the law authorizing the statue] paved the way for real collaboration and partnership among many of the Miwok tribes of the Sacramento region,” Dutschke said. “Working together, we have achieved an amazing accomplishment: Installation of the very first monument on State Capitol grounds that honors California’s First People. This sort of recognition for our people is long overdue and represents an important step toward telling the true history of California.”

Lloyd Mathiesen, chairman of the Chicken Ranch Rancheria, stated,“We are so excited for this day—for this day and this statue to forever be a reminder of where we came from and that if we stand together, we can accomplish anything.”

Buena Vista Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians Chairwoman Rhonda Pope said, ”AB338 is a step toward healing for the hundreds of thousands of our ancestors who lost their lives due to the genocide of the missions led by Junipero Serra.”

Dignitaries attending the event included state Treasurer Fiona Ma, local school board members and other elected officials, regional tribal leaders, and more than 300 students from area schools. 

AB 338 (Ramos, 2021) History

1965: Governor Pat Brown signs AB 1124 into law, paving the way for a Father Junipero Serra monument and its maintenance by the state for 50 years. 

1967: The Father Junipero Serra monument erected.

July 4, 2020: Protestors topple Father Junipero Serra monument in Capitol Park Jan. 28, 2021: AB 338 is introduced and paves the way for construction and maintenance of a monument honoring California Native American people of the Sacramento region on the grounds of the State Capitol.  Supporters of the measure include Barona Band of Mission Indians, California Tribal Business Alliance, Chicken Ranch Rancheria of Me-wuk Indians of California, California Nations Indian Gaming Association, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, Tribal Alliance of Sovereign Indian Nations, and Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation

May 27, 2021: California State Assembly approves AB 338 by a vote of 66-2 and moves to the State Senate.

Aug. 24, 2021: Debate takes place on the Senate Floor. California State Senate approves AB 338 by a vote of 28-2 and heads to the governor’s desk.

Sept. 24, 2021: Governor Gavin Newsom signs AB 338 into law. 

Nov. 14, 2022: Groundbreaking for the California Native American Monument.

Nov. 7, 2023: Unveiling and Dedication Ceremony for the California Native American Monument. 

About William J. Franklin Sr.: Miwok Elder and Inspiration for Capitol Park Monument

William J. Franklin Sr. was a Miwok Indian leader and cultural preservationist whose efforts to preserve and promote the Miwok and other Native American cultures—most notably, the traditional dances—will be long remembered. He was born in Nashville, California, located in El Dorado County, on September 20, 1912, and crossed over on May 2, 2000.

Mr. Franklin was proud of his Native American roots and championed fostering knowledge and respect of California Indians. This included successful lobbying to create a place where California Indians could practice their traditional heritage on historical lands which led to creation of Grinding Rock Park, also known as Grinding Rock-Chaw’se in Pine Grove, California. He also served as a consultant to the Department of Parks and Recreation and helped build three California roundhouses — dedicated space for ceremony, songs, dances and gatherings. In 1979, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. appointed Mr. Franklin to serve on the Native American Heritage Commission.

Even as a young man, he was a farsighted advocate for his people, and petitioned the United States government for land on which the Ione could build homes without fear of being moved.

In the 1940s, Mr. Franklin and others founded the Federated Indians of California to voice Native American concerns. About this same time, he also began researching Miwok ceremonial life by assembling regalia, interviewing elders, and collecting songs. Mr. Franklin had been a dancer since the age of 12 at the Jackson Valley roundhouse and refused to let Miwok traditions die. 

Mr. Franklin’s many endeavors helped ensure traditional and historic practices continue and continue to inspire younger generations.

At his passing, Mr. Franklin was survived by four sons, seven daughters, 38 grandchildren, 41 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren. 

Assemblywoman Pilar Schiavo is the new Chair of the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

In the Northwest San Fernando Valley, Assemblywoman Schiavo co-founded an organization that helped secure housing for Veterans experiencing homelessness.

Assemblywoman Schiavo is the daughter of small business owners. Her father was a logger who became an electrician after two battles with cancer after exposure to Agent Orange while serving in the military, and her mom was a bookkeeper and managed the family electrical business. 

Assemblywoman Schiavo lives in Chatsworth with her daughter Sofia where they love to hike in the Santa Susana Mountains.

SACRAMENTO ― California high school students will learn about their rights at work and how to defend themselves against workplace abuses under a first-of-its-kind law just signed by Governor Gavin Newsom over the weekend.

AB 800, authored by Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro), creates a Workplace Readiness Week at all public high schools to teach students about their workplace rights, protections for minors on the job, and how to join or start a union. The Governor announced the law’s passage on Saturday.

“I am so proud to announce the passage of this first-of-its-kind law requiring schools to teach our kids about their workplace rights,” said Assemblymember Ortega. “We are seeing headlines about children abused at workplaces across the country―wage theft, violations of labor law, and even serious life-changing injuries. As Republicans in other states are working hard to put our children in harm's way, California is giving kids the tools to stand up for themselves.”

Despite an uptick in reports of serious workplace injuries and abuse involving minors, a number of Republican-controlled states have passed laws loosening protections for minors. Arkansas and Iowa recently lowered the age at which minors can legally work. In those states, children as young as 14 can now legally work in meat coolers and industrial laundries, and 15-year-olds may work on assembly lines.

About 55% of US teens are employed. They are more concentrated in fields where wage theft is common and are more likely to be seriously injured while working with machinery. In 2021, 109 teenagers died from work-related injuries in the United States. That same year, over 33,000 teens suffered workplace injuries so severe that they needed to go to the emergency room.

“Youth are having their wages stolen and being seriously injured at work because they don’t know that they have a right to demand safety and hold their employers accountable,” continued Asm. Ortega. “Teaching our youth about their rights at work is essential education―and it could save their lives.”

“Too often, young workers face wage theft, unsafe conditions, sexual harassment or other abuses at work,” said Lorena Gonzalez Fletcher, chief officer of the California Labor Federation. “By requiring that high school students be taught their rights as employees, AB 800 empowers young people with the information and tools they need to understand their rights as workers and protects them against workplace abuses.”

In 2021, California workers filed nearly 19,000 claims for unpaid wages totaling more than $338 million in stolen wages. The fields in which young people tend to be concentrated – food service, retail, childcare, office support – account for almost half (44.2%) of those wage theft claims. These jobs also have high rates of sexual harassment, abuse from management or clientele, discrimination, and serious injury.

Assemblymember Liz Ortega is a member of the Assembly Committees on Higher Education, Insurance, Labor and Employment, Public Safety and Rules. She represents the 20th Assembly District, encompassing all or a portion of the cities of Hayward, San Leandro, Union City, Dublin, Pleasanton and the unincorporated areas of Ashland, Cherryland, Fairview, San Lorenzo, and Castro Valley

As LGBTQ+ rights across the country come under attack, from book bans to outlawing instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in schools, California is leading the way in preserving the rights of LGBTQ+ students across the state. While the state is making progress, LGBTQ+ students still experience harassment, violence and lack of affirmation in school settings far too often.

This is why I introduced the Safe and Supportive Schools Act on my first day in the State Assembly. AB 5 provides high quality, professional development opportunities to educators in order to help foster inclusive classroom environments and appropriately address the unique challenges that LGBTQ+ and all students face. The bill would yield significant benefits for educators that directly transfer to the success of LGBTQ+ students and advance overall educational outcomes.

California Reparations Task Force Members:  https://oag.ca.gov/ab3121/members

Assemblymember and Task Force Member Reggie Jones-Sawyer:  https://a57.asmdc.org/

Look West podcast:  https://asmdc.org/look-west

SACRAMENTO ---- Today,Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine), along with Assemblywoman Liz Ortega (D-Alameda), Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria, (D-Fresno), and Senator Dave Cortese, (D-Santa Clara), held a press conference to discuss their legislative priorities to address the fentanyl crisis and announce the statewide rollout of the DEA’s “One Pill Can Kill” campaign.

Fentanyl is one of the most dangerous and deadly drugs circulating on the illegal drug market - just 2 milligrams is enough to kill. According to the California Department of Public Health, statewide fentanyl deaths increased from 239 deaths in 2016 to 3,946 in 2020. In California, 71% of all opioid related deaths in 2020 were a result of fentanyl poisoning. 

“My colleagues and I are working with urgency to address this crisis in a meaningful way and enact policies to keep our families safe,” said Assemblywoman Petrie-Norris. “This drug is ravaging our communities every day. Kids are dying. We need a comprehensive approach that includes more money for drug treatment, stronger enforcement of our laws, and better partnerships with stakeholders – including law enforcement, social media companies, schools, and local governments.” 

Assemblywoman Petrie-Norris has introduced two bills to help address this deadly trend.  AB 1027 aims to prevent fentanyl poisoning by enacting more stringent data collection and storage requirements for social media companies. AB 955 would increase penalties applied to those convicted of fentanyl sales by imprisonment in a county jail for a period of 3, 6, or 9 years. 

The Assemblywoman also launched the statewide rollout of the DEA’s fentanyl awareness campaign, “One Pill Can Kill” to educate the public about the dangers of fentanyl.  Elements will include how to recognize fentanyl, how get help in the event of an overdose, and highlight the severity of ingesting even a miniscule amount.  The awareness campaign can be found at https://a73.asmdc.org/end-fentanyl-poisoning. 

“Many legislators are trying to address this crisis by closing all policy loopholes to ensure that our public safety entities have every tool they need to fight this epidemic.  It is my hope that we can continue this important conversation as these bills move through the legislature.  It is clear that this crisis is urgent and immediate action is vital.” 

What people are saying

Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine), Author of AB 1027 and AB 955 said, “My colleagues and I are working with urgency to address this crisis in a meaningful way and enact policies to keep our communities safe. This drug is ravaging our communities every day. Kids are dying. We need a comprehensive approach that includes more money for drug treatment, stronger enforcement of our laws, and better partnerships with stakeholders – including law enforcement, social media companies, schools, and local governments.” 

Senator Thomas J. Umberg, (D-Santa Ana), Author of SB 44, SB 250, and SB 60

said, “As lawmakers, we have a moral, ethical, and legal obligation to protect lives in California.  The scourge of fentanyl and specifically, fentanyl poisonings, is unlike anything we have ever seen. We absolutely must do everything we can to save lives and put tools into the hands of those on the ground who are fighting this epidemic: families, nurses, doctors, teachers, and law enforcement alike. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in both houses as we prioritize this issue in 2023.”

Senator Dave Cortese (D-San Jose), Author of SB 10

said, “Fentanyl is responsible for an astounding one in five deaths of young people in California. We cannot continue to allow more young people to die,” said Senator Dave Cortese, D-San Jose. “My SB 10 would create opioid prevention and education programs in schools. We want to give school staff, students, and their families’ information about the danger of this lethal drug, and we want to arm educators with the knowledge and tools to save children who overdose on campus. I join my colleagues in meeting this crisis with urgency and sweeping action.”

The Look West podcast is produced by the Assembly Democratic Caucus. Each episode provides a personal view of the California leaders representing you in the State Assembly. Tune in while these elected officials, influential leaders, and the general public provide a unique perspective on different issues affecting California, and learn more about the actions Assembly Democrats are taking to help lead the nation into a brighter future.

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Majority Leader Eloise Gomez Reyes

Assemblymember Dawn Addis

Assemblymember Gail Pellerin

Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva

Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco

CA Museum CEO Amanda Meeker

California Assembly Democrats Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes Eloise Gomez Reyes Dawn Addis Gail Pellerin Sharon Quirk-Silva Blanca Pacheco Legislative Womens Caucus Legislature 

In Part 2 you’ll meet Dr. Jasmeet Bains, Rick Chavez Zbur, Pilar Schiavo, Dawn Addis, Dr. Corey Jackson, Gail Pellerin, Liz Ortega and Damon Connolly.

In Part 1 you’ll meet Juan Carrillo, Blanca Pacheco, Josh Lowenthal, Diane Papan, Gregg Hart, Avelino Valencia, Esmeralda Soria and Stephanie Nguyen.

In Part 2 you’ll meet Dr. Jasmeet Bains, Rick Chavez Zbur, Pilar Schiavo, Dawn Addis, Dr. Corey Jackson, Gail Pellerin, Liz Ortega and Damon Connolly.

In Part 2 on this issue, we sit down with Elizabeth Gettleman Galicia, Vice President of Common Sense Media. She shares her knowledge of the CCPA, what the new law does for privacy rights, and tips for navigating data privacy in the digital age. After listening, check out commonsense.org/privacy-rights for resources.

In Part 1, we talked with to the bill’s author, Assemblymember Chau, and privacy activist and founder of Californians for Consumer Privacy, Alastair Mactaggart, on how we’re taking back control, and where the nation is heading on this issue.

The program features a discussion with retired San Francisco 49er George Visger, who talks about both his life in football and afterward living with the brain injuries brought on by his time on the field. His story provides the context for why Assemblymembers Kevin McCarty and Jim Cooper wanted to tackle these tough questions by introducing their specific bills that ultimately became law.

Since Assemblymember James C. Ramos swearing, he has passed legislation that not only reflects the current state of Native Americans but also with a deep commitment to the preservation of California Native American Culture. Join him to celebrate Native American Heritage Month!

With more women elected to office than ever before, the role of women in politics and society is ever-changing. Assemblymember Dr. Shirley N. Weber and Dr. Huma Ahmed-Ghosh dive into the last hundred years and the future of civic engagement.

Earlier this year, Assemblywoman Boerner Horvath introduced Assembly Bill 467, which ensures equal compensation prizes for the male and female categories in competitions that take place on state lands. You can find the bill text for AB 467 on the California Legislative Information website.

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Assemblymember Ian Calderon:  Facebook/Twitter/Website

Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes:  Facebook/Twitter/Website

Assemblymember Marc Berman: Facebook/Twitter/Website

To learn more about the fight against Alzheimer’s, be sure to visit www.alz.org.