ACR 126: Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: Assembly
- Latest Version Date: 2026-08-10
Current Status:
Passed
(2026-08-10: Chaptered by Secretary of State - Res. Chapter 156, Statutes of 2026.)
Introduced
In Committee
Awaiting First Chamber Vote
Passed First Chamber
In Committee
Awaiting Second Chamber Vote
Passed Second Chamber
Enacted
This measure would designate a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the Department of Transportation determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
This measure would designate a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the Department of Transportation determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
This measure would designate a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the Department of Transportation determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
This measure would designate a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the Department of Transportation determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
WHEREAS, On February 19, 1990, at approximately 10:40 a.m., Long Valley Fire Protection District Captain Vidar Anderson, along with 50 other first responders, responded to an emergency call regarding teenagers who had fallen through the ice at Convict Lake; and
WHEREAS, Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice in an attempt to rescue the teenagers; and
WHEREAS, In his heroic effort to save the teenagers, Captain Anderson also saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx; and
WHEREAS, Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold, giving his life in the line of duty while attempting to save others during this tragic event; and
WHEREAS, Captain Andersons invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community; and
WHEREAS, The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Andersons memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name; and
WHEREAS, This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Andersons service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R13.931, in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway; and be it further
Resolved, That the Department of Transportation is requested to determine the cost of appropriate signs, consistent with the signing requirements for the state highway system, showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the Director of Transportation and to the author for appropriate distribution.
WHEREAS, On February 19, 1990, at approximately 10:40 a.m., Long Valley Fire Protection District Captain Vidar Anderson, along with 50 other first responders, responded to an emergency call regarding teenagers who had fallen through the ice at Convict Lake; and
WHEREAS, Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice in an attempt to rescue the teenagers; and
WHEREAS, In his heroic effort to save the teenagers, Captain Anderson also saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx; and
WHEREAS, Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold, giving his life in the line of duty while attempting to save others during this tragic event; and
WHEREAS, Captain Andersons invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community; and
WHEREAS, The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Andersons memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name; and
WHEREAS, This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Andersons service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R13.931, in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway; and be it further
Resolved, That the Department of Transportation is requested to determine the cost of appropriate signs, consistent with the signing requirements for the state highway system, showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the Director of Transportation and to the author for appropriate distribution.
WHEREAS, On February 19, 1990, at approximately 10:40 a.m., Long Valley Fire Protection District Captain Vidar Anderson, along with 50 other first responders, responded to an emergency call regarding teenagers who had fallen through the ice at Convict Lake; and
WHEREAS, Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice in an attempt to rescue the teenagers; and
WHEREAS, In his heroic effort to save the teenagers, Captain Anderson also saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx; and
WHEREAS, Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold, giving his life in the line of duty while attempting to save others during this tragic event; and
WHEREAS, Captain Andersons invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community; and
WHEREAS, The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Andersons memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name; and
WHEREAS, This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Andersons service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R14.080, R13.931, in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway; and be it further
Resolved, That the Department of Transportation is requested to determine the cost of appropriate signs, consistent with the signing requirements for the state highway system, showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the Director of Transportation and to the author for appropriate distribution.
WHEREAS, On February 19, 1990, at approximately 10:40 a.m., Long Valley Fire Protection District Captain Vidar Anderson, along with 50 other first responders, responded to an emergency call regarding teenagers who had fallen through the ice at Convict Lake; and
WHEREAS, Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice in an attempt to rescue the teenagers; and
WHEREAS, In his heroic effort to save the teenagers, Captain Anderson also saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx; and
WHEREAS, Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold, giving his life in the line of duty while attempting to save others during this tragic event; and
WHEREAS, Captain Andersons invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community; and
WHEREAS, The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Andersons memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name; and
WHEREAS, This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Andersons service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature hereby designates the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R14.080, in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway; and be it further
Resolved, That the Department of Transportation is requested to determine the cost of appropriate signs, consistent with the signing requirements for the state highway system, showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the Director of Transportation and to the author for appropriate distribution.
|
Date
|
Status
|
|---|---|
| Aug 10, 2026 | Chaptered by Secretary of State - Res. Chapter 156, Statutes of 2026. |
| Aug 10, 2026 | Enrolled and filed with the Secretary of State at 2 p.m. |
| Aug 3, 2026 | Senate amendments concurred in. To Engrossing and Enrolling. (Ayes 70. Noes 1.). |
| Aug 3, 2026 | Senate amendments concurred in. To Engrossing and Enrolling. (Ayes 70. Noes 1. Page 6030.). |
| Jun 18, 2026 | In Assembly. Concurrence in Senate amendments pending. |
| Jun 18, 2026 | Adopted and to Assembly. (Ayes 37. Noes 0.) |
| Jun 18, 2026 | Adopted and to Assembly. (Ayes 37. Noes 0. Page 4860.) |
| Jun 16, 2026 | Read second time. Ordered to Consent Calendar. |
| Jun 15, 2026 | From committee: Be ordered to second reading file pursuant to Senate Rule 28.8 and ordered to Consent Calendar. |
| Jun 9, 2026 | From committee: Be adopted, and re-refer to Com. on APPR. with recommendation: To Consent Calendar. (Ayes 13. Noes 0.) (June 9). Re-referred to Com. on APPR. |
| May 13, 2026 | From committee chair, with author's amendments: Amend, and re-refer to committee. Read second time, amended, and re-referred to Com. on TRANS. |
| May 6, 2026 | Referred to Com. on TRANS. |
| Apr 23, 2026 | In Senate. To Com. on RLS. |
| Apr 23, 2026 | Adopted and to Senate. (Ayes 74. Noes 0.) |
| Apr 23, 2026 | Adopted and to Senate. (Ayes 74. Noes 0. Page 4796.) |
| Apr 21, 2026 | From committee: Be adopted. To Consent Calendar. (Ayes 15. Noes 0.) (April 20). |
| Feb 2, 2026 | Referred to Com. on TRANS. |
| Jan 23, 2026 | From printer. |
| Jan 22, 2026 | Introduced. To print. |
|
Date
|
Description
|
Location
|
Votes
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 3, 2026 | ACR 126 Tangipa Concurrence in Senate Amendments | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| Jun 18, 2026 | Consent Calendar 2nd ACR126 Tangipa et al. | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Jun 9, 2026 | Be adopted, but first be re-referred to the Committee on [Appropriations] with recommendation: To Consent Calendar | Senate Standing Committee on Transportation |
Passed |
|
| Apr 23, 2026 | ACR 126 Tangipa Consent Calendar Second Day Regular Session | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| Apr 20, 2026 | Be adopted. To Consent Calendar. | Assembly Standing Committee on Transportation |
Passed |
This list shows positions taken on this bill by organizations on the date displayed, which is linked to the original source.
Positions by individuals are not included.
|
Organization
|
Position
|
Date
|
|---|---|---|
| County Of Mono | ** Support | |
| Long Valley Fire Department | ** Support | |
| Long Valley Fire Protection District | ** Support | |
| Melissa Niehoff | ** Support |
CONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS
CSA1 Bill Id:ACR 126
Author:(Tangipa)
As Amended Ver:May 13, 2026
Majority Vote
SUMMARY
Designates a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
Senate Amendments
Replaces the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R14.080, to postmile R13.931, in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.
COMMENTS
On the morning of February 19, 1990, Captain Vidar Anderson of the Long Valley Fire Protection District joined 50 fellow first responders in a desperate race to Convict Lake, where several teenagers had fallen through the ice.
Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice attempting to rescue the teenagers. In his heroic effort to save the teens, Captain Anderson saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx. Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold during this heroic rescue attempt, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Captain Anderson's invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community. The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Anderson's memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name. This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Anderson's service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route.
According to the Author
"Captain Vidar Anderson was a hero in the Mono County community whose selfless actions saved the lives of local children. Acting without hesitation in a moment of danger, he placed the safety of others above his own and demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment to public service. This memorial highway is dedicated in his honor to ensure his bravery, sacrifice, and lasting impact on Mono County are permanently recognized and remembered by all who travel through the region."
Arguments in Support
Writing in support of the resolution, Melissa Niehoff, daughter of Bill Niehoff, a former volunteer firefighter with the Long Valley Fire Department, states, "I am writing this letter as a testament to the lasting legacies that become an enduring part of someone's story.
Although I never had the honor of meeting Captain Anderson, I came to know him through my father's stories - the ones told to me as a little girl, the stories shared while visiting the department, reading old articles, and standing quietly at the Convict Lake memorial site. In many ways, I feel like I grew up knowing the kind of man Captain Anderson was.
The most moving account I have ever heard came from Chief Ray Turner, whom I was blessed to meet last year while visiting Long Valley. Chief Turner saw the tragedy unfold before his very eyes. Hearing him speak about that day is something you never forget. Some might say he lost a colleague. But when you hear his voice tremble and see his eyes fill with tears, you understand he didn't just lose a colleague or even an exceptionally good friend. He lost a brother.
As we approach the 36th year since Captain Anderson's passing and the tragic events of Presidents' Day at Convict Lake, there has never been a more meaningful time to honor Captain Andersons life and sacrifice."
Arguments in Opposition
None on file
FISCAL COMMENTS
Unknown, but the measure requests that Caltrans determine the cost of appropriate signage consistent with requirements for the state highway system and only erect the appropriate signage upon receiving donations from non-state sources covering the cost.
VOTES:
ASM TRANSPORTATION: 15-0-1
YES: Wilson, Davies, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Carrillo, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Jackson, Lackey, Macedo, Papan, Ransom, Rogers, Sharp-Collins
ABS, ABST OR NV: Ávila Farías
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 74-0-6
YES: Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Solache, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
ABS, ABST OR NV: Addis, Hadwick, Celeste Rodriguez, Sharp-Collins, Soria, Wicks
SENATE FLOOR: 37-0-3
YES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Reyes, Richardson, Rubio, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
ABS, ABST OR NV: Ashby, Grove, Seyarto
UPDATED
VERSION: May 13, 2026
CONSULTANT: Aimee Maxwell-Jolly / TRANS. / (916) 319-2093 FN: 0003185
CONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS
CSA1 Bill Id:ACR 126
Author:(Tangipa)
As Amended Ver:May 13, 2026
Majority Vote
SUMMARY
Designates a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
Senate Amendments
Replaces the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R14.080, to postmile R13.931, in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.
COMMENTS
On the morning of February 19, 1990, Captain Vidar Anderson of the Long Valley Fire Protection District joined 50 fellow first responders in a desperate race to Convict Lake, where several teenagers had fallen through the ice.
Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice attempting to rescue the teenagers. In his heroic effort to save the teens, Captain Anderson saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx. Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold during this heroic rescue attempt, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Captain Anderson's invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community. The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Anderson's memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name. This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Anderson's service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route.
According to the Author
"Captain Vidar Anderson was a hero in the Mono County community whose selfless actions saved the lives of local children. Acting without hesitation in a moment of danger, he placed the safety of others above his own and demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment to public service. This memorial highway is dedicated in his honor to ensure his bravery, sacrifice, and lasting impact on Mono County are permanently recognized and remembered by all who travel through the region."
Arguments in Support
Writing in support of the resolution, Melissa Niehoff, daughter of Bill Niehoff, a former volunteer firefighter with the Long Valley Fire Department, states, "I am writing this letter as a testament to the lasting legacies that become an enduring part of someone's story.
"Although I never had the honor of meeting Captain Anderson, I came to know him through my father's stories - the ones told to me as a little girl, the stories shared while visiting the department, reading old articles, and standing quietly at the Convict Lake memorial site. In many ways, I feel like I grew up knowing the kind of man Captain Anderson was.
"The most moving account I have ever heard came from Chief Ray Turner, whom I was blessed to meet last year while visiting Long Valley. Chief Turner saw the tragedy unfold before his very eyes. Hearing him speak about that day is something you never forget. Some might say he lost a colleague. But when you hear his voice tremble and see his eyes fill with tears, you understand he didn't just lose a colleague or even an exceptionally good friend. He lost a brother.
"As we approach the 36th year since Captain Anderson's passing and the tragic events of Presidents' Day at Convict Lake, there has never been a more meaningful time to honor Captain Andersons life and sacrifice."
Arguments in Opposition
None on file
FISCAL COMMENTS
Unknown, but the measure requests that Caltrans determine the cost of appropriate signage consistent with requirements for the state highway system and only erect the appropriate signage upon receiving donations from non-state sources covering the cost.
VOTES:
ASM TRANSPORTATION: 15-0-1
YES: Wilson, Davies, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Carrillo, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Jackson, Lackey, Macedo, Papan, Ransom, Rogers, Sharp-Collins
ABS, ABST OR NV: Ávila Farías
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 74-0-6
YES: Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Solache, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
ABS, ABST OR NV: Addis, Hadwick, Celeste Rodriguez, Sharp-Collins, Soria, Wicks
SENATE FLOOR: 37-0-3
YES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Reyes, Richardson, Rubio, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
ABS, ABST OR NV: Ashby, Grove, Seyarto
UPDATED
VERSION: May 13, 2026
CONSULTANT: Aimee Maxwell-Jolly / TRANS. / (916) 319-2093 FN: 0003185
CONCURRENCE IN SENATE AMENDMENTS
CSA1 Bill Id:ACR 126
Author:(Tangipa)
As Amended Ver:May 13, 2026
Majority Vote
SUMMARY
Designates a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
Senate Amendments
Replaces the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R14.080, to postmile R13.931, in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.
COMMENTS
On the morning of February 19, 1990, Captain Vidar Anderson of the Long Valley Fire Protection District joined 50 fellow first responders in a desperate race to Convict Lake, where several teenagers had fallen through the ice.
Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice attempting to rescue the teenagers. In his heroic effort to save the teens, Captain Anderson saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx. Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold during this heroic rescue attempt, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Captain Anderson's invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community. The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Anderson's memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name. This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Anderson's service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route.
According to the Author
"Captain Vidar Anderson was a hero in the Mono County community whose selfless actions saved the lives of local children. Acting without hesitation in a moment of danger, he placed the safety of others above his own and demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment to public service. This memorial highway is dedicated in his honor to ensure his bravery, sacrifice, and lasting impact on Mono County are permanently recognized and remembered by all who travel through the region."
Arguments in Support
Writing in support of the resolution, Melissa Niehoff, daughter of Bill Niehoff, a former volunteer firefighter with the Long Valley Fire Department, states, "I am writing this letter as a testament to the lasting legacies that become an enduring part of someone's story.
"Although I never had the honor of meeting Captain Anderson, I came to know him through my father's stories - the ones told to me as a little girl, the stories shared while visiting the department, reading old articles, and standing quietly at the Convict Lake memorial site. In many ways, I feel like I grew up knowing the kind of man Captain Anderson was.
"The most moving account I have ever heard came from Chief Ray Turner, whom I was blessed to meet last year while visiting Long Valley. Chief Turner saw the tragedy unfold before his very eyes. Hearing him speak about that day is something you never forget. Some might say he lost a colleague. But when you hear his voice tremble and see his eyes fill with tears, you understand he didn't just lose a colleague or even an exceptionally good friend. He lost a brother.
"As we approach the 36th year since Captain Anderson's passing and the tragic events of Presidents' Day at Convict Lake, there has never been a more meaningful time to honor Captain Andersons life and sacrifice."
Arguments in Opposition
None on file
FISCAL COMMENTS
Writing in support of the resolution, Melissa Niehoff, daughter of Bill Niehoff, a former volunteer firefighter with the Long Valley Fire Department, states, "I am writing this letter as a testament to the lasting legacies that become an enduring part of someone's story.
"Although I never had the honor of meeting Captain Anderson, I came to know him through my father's stories - the ones told to me as a little girl, the stories shared while visiting the department, reading old articles, and standing quietly at the Convict Lake memorial site. In many ways, I feel like I grew up knowing the kind of man Captain Anderson was.
"The most moving account I have ever heard came from Chief Ray Turner, whom I was blessed to meet last year while visiting Long Valley. Chief Turner saw the tragedy unfold before his very eyes. Hearing him speak about that day is something you never forget. Some might say he lost a colleague. But when you hear his voice tremble and see his eyes fill with tears, you understand he didn't just lose a colleague or even an exceptionally good friend. He lost a brother.
"As we approach the 36th year since Captain Anderson's passing and the tragic events of Presidents' Day at Convict Lake, there has never been a more meaningful time to honor Captain Andersons life and sacrifice."
VOTES:
ASM TRANSPORTATION: 15-0-1
YES: Wilson, Davies, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Carrillo, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Jackson, Lackey, Macedo, Papan, Ransom, Rogers, Sharp-Collins
ABS, ABST OR NV: Ávila Farías
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 74-0-6
YES: Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Solache, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
ABS, ABST OR NV: Addis, Hadwick, Celeste Rodriguez, Sharp-Collins, Soria, Wicks
SENATE FLOOR: 37-0-3
YES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Reyes, Richardson, Rubio, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
ABS, ABST OR NV: Ashby, Grove, Seyarto
UPDATED
VERSION: May 13, 2026
CONSULTANT: Aimee Maxwell-Jolly / TRANS. / (916) 319-2093 FN: 0003185
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-4171 | ACR 126 |
CONSENT
Bill No: ACR 126
Author: Tangipa (R), et al.
Amended: 5/13/26 in Senate
Vote: 21
SENATE TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: 13-0, 6/9/26
AYES: Cortese, Strickland, Archuleta, Arreguín, Blakespear, Dahle, Gonzalez, Grayson, Menjivar, Richardson, Seyarto, Valladares, Wiener
SENATE APPROPRIATIONS COMMITTEE: Senate Rule 28.8
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 74-0, 4/23/26 (Consent) - See last page for vote
SUBJECT: Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway
SOURCE: Author
DIGEST:
This resolution designates a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the “Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.”
ANALYSIS:
Existing law assigns the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) the responsibility of operating and maintaining state highways, including the installation and maintenance of highway signs.
Committee Policy:
The committee has adopted a policy regarding the naming of state highways or structures. Under the policy, the committee will consider only those resolutions that meet all of the following criteria:
- The person being honored must be deceased or a former elected public official who has been out of office for at least 25 years.
- The person must have provided extraordinary public service or some exemplary contribution to the public good and have a connection to the community where the highway is located.
- The naming must be done without cost to the state. Costs for signs and plaques must be paid by local or private sources.
- The author or co-author of the resolution must represent the district in which the facility is located, and the resolution must identify the specific highway segment or structure being named.
- The segment of highway being named must not exceed five miles in length.
- The proposed designation must reflect a community consensus and be without local opposition.
- The proposed designation may not supersede an existing designation unless the sponsor can document that a good faith effort has uncovered no opposition to rescinding the prior designation.
This resolution:
- Recounts the heroic efforts of Captain Vidar Anderson.
- Designates the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R13.931, in the County of Mono as the “Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.”
- Requests Caltrans to determine the cost of appropriate signs consistent with the signing requirements for the state highway system showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover that cost, to erect those signs.
Comments
- Purpose of the resolution. According to the author, “Captain Vidar Anderson was a hero in the Mono County community whose selfless actions saved the lives of local children. Acting without hesitation in a moment of danger, he placed the safety of others above his own and demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment to public service. This memorial highway is dedicated in his honor to ensure his bravery, sacrifice, and lasting impact on Mono County are permanently recognized and remembered by all who travel through the region.”
- Background. On the morning of February 19, 1990, Captain Vidar Anderson of the Long Valley Fire Protection District joined 50 fellow first responders in a desperate race to Convict Lake in the Inyo National Forest, where several teenagers had fallen through the ice. Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice attempting to rescue the teenagers. In the freezing waters, three of the four teenagers from nearby Camp O'Neal drowned, along with four rescuers, including Long Valley Fire Department Captain Vidar Anderson, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Captain Anderson’s invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community. The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Anderson’s memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name. This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Anderson’s service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route.
- Consistent with committee policy. This resolution is consistent with committee policy.
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Yes Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 6/15/26)
County of Mono
Long Valley Fire Protection District
2 private citizens
OPPOSITION: (Verified 6/15/26)
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: Writing in support of the resolution, Melissa Niehoff, daughter of Bill Niehoff, a former volunteer firefighter with the Long Valley Fire Department, states, “I am writing this letter as a testament to the lasting legacies that become an enduring part of someone’s story.
“Although I never had the honor of meeting Captain Anderson, I came to know him through my father’s stories - the ones told to me as a little girl, the stories shared while visiting the department, reading old articles, and standing quietly at the Convict Lake memorial site. In many ways, I feel like I grew up knowing the kind of man Captain Anderson was.
“The most moving account I have ever heard came from Chief Ray Turner, whom I was blessed to meet last year while visiting Long Valley. Chief Turner saw the tragedy unfold before his very eyes. Hearing him speak about that day is something you never forget. Some might say he lost a colleague. But when you hear his voice tremble and see his eyes fill with tears, you understand he didn’t just lose a colleague or even an exceptionally good friend. He lost a brother.
“As we approach the 36th year since Captain Anderson’s passing and the tragic events of Presidents’ Day at Convict Lake, there has never been a more meaningful time to honor Captain Andersons life and sacrifice.”
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 74-0, 4/23/26
AYES: Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Castillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Haney, Harabedian, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Johnson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Patterson, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Sanchez, Schiavo, Schultz, Solache, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
NO VOTE RECORDED: Addis, Hadwick, Celeste Rodriguez, Sharp-Collins, Soria, Wicks
Prepared by: Melissa White / TRANS. / (916) 651-4121
6/16/26 16:43:06
**** END ****
SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
Senator Dave Cortese, Chair
2025 - 2026 Regular
Bill No: Hearing Date: 6/9/2026
Author: | Tangipa | ||
Version: | 5/13/2026 Amended | ||
Urgency: | No | Fiscal: | Yes |
Consultant: | Melissa White | ||
SUBJECT:
DIGEST: This resolution designates a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the “Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.”
ANALYSIS:
Existing law:
- Assigns the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) the responsibility of operating and maintaining state highways, including the installation and maintenance of highway signs.
Committee Policy:
The committee has adopted a policy regarding the naming of state highways or structures. Under the policy, the committee will consider only those resolutions that meet all of the following criteria:
- The person being honored must be deceased or a former elected public official who has been out of office for at least 25 years.
- The person must have provided extraordinary public service or some exemplary contribution to the public good and have a connection to the community where the highway is located.
- The naming must be done without cost to the state. Costs for signs and plaques must be paid by local or private sources.
- The author or co-author of the resolution must represent the district in which the facility is located, and the resolution must identify the specific highway segment or structure being named.
- The segment of highway being named must not exceed five miles in length.
- The proposed designation must reflect a community consensus and be without local opposition.
- The proposed designation may not supersede an existing designation unless the sponsor can document that a good faith effort has uncovered no opposition to rescinding the prior designation.
This resolution:
- Recounts the heroic efforts of Captain Vidar Anderson.
- Designates the portion of State Route 395, from Rock Creek Road, at postmile R10.264, to the South Landing Overcrossing #47-48, at postmile R13.931, in the County of Mono as the “Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway.”
- Requests Caltrans to determine the cost of appropriate signs consistent with the signing requirements for the state highway system showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover that cost, to erect those signs.
COMMENTS:
- Purpose of the resolution. According to the author, “Captain Vidar Anderson was a hero in the Mono County community whose selfless actions saved the lives of local children. Acting without hesitation in a moment of danger, he placed the safety of others above his own and demonstrated extraordinary courage and commitment to public service. This memorial highway is dedicated in his honor to ensure his bravery, sacrifice, and lasting impact on Mono County are permanently recognized and remembered by all who travel through the region.”
- Background. On the morning of February 19, 1990, Captain Vidar Anderson of the Long Valley Fire Protection District joined 50 fellow first responders in a desperate race to Convict Lake in the Inyo National Forest, where several teenagers had fallen through the ice. Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice attempting to rescue the teenagers. In the freezing waters, three of the four teenagers from nearby Camp O'Neal drowned, along with four rescuers, including Long Valley Fire Department Captain Vidar Anderson, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Captain Anderson’s invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community. The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Anderson’s memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name. This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Anderson’s service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route.
Writing in support of the resolution, Melissa Niehoff, daughter of Bill Niehoff, a former volunteer firefighter with the Long Valley Fire Department, states, “I am writing this letter as a testament to the lasting legacies that become an enduring part of someone’s story.
“Although I never had the honor of meeting Captain Anderson, I came to know him through my father’s stories - the ones told to me as a little girl, the stories shared while visiting the department, reading old articles, and standing quietly at the Convict Lake memorial site. In many ways, I feel like I grew up knowing the kind of man Captain Anderson was.
“The most moving account I have ever heard came from Chief Ray Turner, whom I was blessed to meet last year while visiting Long Valley. Chief Turner saw the tragedy unfold before his very eyes. Hearing him speak about that day is something you never forget. Some might say he lost a colleague. But when you hear his voice tremble and see his eyes fill with tears, you understand he didn’t just lose a colleague or even an exceptionally good friend. He lost a brother.
“As we approach the 36th year since Captain Anderson’s passing and the tragic events of Presidents’ Day at Convict Lake, there has never been a more meaningful time to honor Captain Andersons life and sacrifice.”
- Consistent with committee policy. This resolution is consistent with committee policy.
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: Local: No
POSITIONS: (Communicated to the committee before noon on Wednesday,
June 3, 2026.)
SUPPORT:
County of Mono
Long Valley Fire Protection District
2 private citizens
OPPOSITION:
None received
-- END --
Date of Hearing: April 20, 2026
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION
Lori D. Wilson, Chair
ABPCA Bill Id:ACR 126 (
Author:Tangipa) – As Introduced Ver:January 22, 2026
SUBJECT: Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway
SUMMARY: Designates a specified portion of State Highway Route 395 in the County of Mono as the Captain Vidar Anderson Memorial Highway. The measure would request that the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) determine the cost of appropriate signs showing this special designation and, upon receiving donations from nonstate sources sufficient to cover the cost, to erect those signs.
EXISTING LAW: Assigns Caltrans the responsibility of operating and maintaining state highways. This includes the installation and maintenance of highway signs.
FISCAL EFFECT: Unknown, but the measure requests that Caltrans determine the cost of appropriate signage consistent with requirements for the state highway system and only erect the appropriate signage upon receiving donations from non-state sources covering the cost.
COMMENTS: On the morning of February 19, 1990, Captain Vidar Anderson of the Long Valley Fire Protection District joined 50 fellow first responders in a desperate race to Convict Lake, where several teenagers had fallen through the ice.
Captain Anderson was one of four local responders who fell through the ice attempting to rescue the teenagers. In his heroic effort to save the teens, Captain Anderson saved the life of his fellow first responder, Long Valley Fire Protection District Chief Chris Baitx. Tragically, Captain Anderson succumbed to the cold during this heroic rescue attempt, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
Captain Anderson’s invaluable service, dedication, leadership, and commitment contributed greatly to the safety and well-being of his community. The Long Valley Fire Protection District seeks to honor Captain Anderson’s memory and service by dedicating a portion of State Route 395 in his name. This dedication will serve as a fitting tribute to Captain Vidar Anderson’s service, sacrifice, and heroism, and will ensure that he is remembered by all who travel this route.
REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:
Support
Long Valley Fire Department
Long Valley Fire Protection District
Two Individuals
Opposition
None on file
Analysis Prepared by: Aimee Anspach / TRANS. / (916) 319-2093
Bill Author
Bill Co-Author(s):