SB 765: State snake.
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: Senate
- Latest Version Date: 2025-10-09
Current Status:
Passed
(2025-10-09: Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 482, Statutes of 2025.)
Introduced
In Committee
Awaiting First Chamber Vote
Passed First Chamber
In Committee
Awaiting Second Chamber Vote
Passed Second Chamber
Enacted
Existing law establishes the state flag and the states emblems, including, among other things, the poppy as the official state flower, the California redwood as the official state tree, and the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile.
This bill would establish the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake.
Existing law establishes the state flag and the states emblems, including, among other things, the poppy as the official state flower, the California redwood as the official state tree, and the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile.
This bill would establish the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake.
Existing law establishes the state flag and the states emblems, including, among other things, the poppy as the official state flower, the California redwood as the official state tree, and the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile.
This bill would establish the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake.
Existing law establishes the state flag and the states emblems, including, among other things, the poppy as the official state flower, the California redwood as the official state tree, and the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile.
This bill would establish the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake.
The Legislature hereby finds and declares all of the following:
(a)The giant garter snake is endemic to California, meaning it can be found nowhere else in the world. This snake was historically found throughout the Central Valley, but now its range is limited to the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys.
(b)The giant garter snake is the largest of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length.
(c)The giant garter snake is an aquatic garter snake species and historically made its home in shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. Now, the snake is primarily found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals, which resemble the natural marshes that had provided habitat for the snake.
(d)The primary threats to the snakes survival are habitat loss and degradation. Agricultural conversion and urban development have resulted in the loss of over 90 percent of the Central Valleys historic wetlands, ultimately reducing and fragmenting giant garter snake habitat. Water diversions, dams, and pesticide use also contribute to giant garter snake habitat loss. Predation by nonnative species and vehicular traffic may also threaten the species directly. In response to these threats, the giant garter snake was listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. Despite efforts under these Acts, the giant garter snake population has not recovered, and as California faces an uncertain future due to climate change, so does the survival of this uniquely Californian species.
(e)Declaring the giant garter snake as the official state snake of California will acknowledge the important place of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California, as well as broadcast and reinforce the states commitment to protecting endangered species.
SEC. 2.Section 422.6 is added to the Government Code, to read:422.6.The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is the official state snake.
The Legislature hereby finds and declares all of the following:
(a)The giant garter snake is endemic to California, meaning it can be found nowhere else in the world. This snake was historically found throughout the Central Valley, but now its range is limited to the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valleys.
(b)The giant garter snake is the largest of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length.
(c)The giant garter snake is an aquatic garter snake species and historically made its home in shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. Now, the snake is primarily found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals, which resemble the natural marshes that had provided habitat for the snake.
(d)The primary threats to the snakes survival are habitat loss and degradation. Agricultural conversion and urban development have resulted in the loss of over 90 percent of the Central Valleys historic wetlands, ultimately reducing and fragmenting giant garter snake habitat. Water diversions, dams, and pesticide use also contribute to giant garter snake habitat loss. Predation by nonnative species and vehicular traffic may also threaten the species directly. In response to these threats, the giant garter snake was listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. Despite efforts under these Acts, the giant garter snake population has not recovered, and as California faces an uncertain future due to climate change, so does the survival of this uniquely Californian species.
(e)Declaring the giant garter snake as the official state snake of California will acknowledge the important place of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California, as well as broadcast and reinforce the states commitment to protecting endangered species.
SEC. 2.Section 422.6 is added to the Government Code, to read:422.6.The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is the official state snake.
The Legislature hereby finds and declares all of the following:
(a)The giant garter snake is endemic to California, meaning it can be found nowhere else in the world. This snake is perfectly adapted to living in wetlands in was historically found throughout the Central Valley, with limited distribution throughout the but now its range is limited to the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley. Valleys.
(b)The giant garter snake is truly a giant and is the largest species of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length.
(c)The giant garter snake is the most an aquatic garter snake species and survives in habitat that is characterized by historically made its home in shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. The Now, the snake is also primarily found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals for transportation between water bodies. canals, which resemble the natural marshes that had provided habitat for the snake.
(d)The giant garter snake is a threatened species and its population has declined by more than 90 percent in the past century. The primary threats to the snakes survival are habitat loss and degradation, as well as predation by nonnative species. Habitat loss is due to several factors, including agricultural development, water diversion, and pollution and pesticides. Furthermore, as California faces an uncertain future due to climate change, so does the survival of this uniquely Californian species.The degradation. Agricultural conversion and urban development have resulted in the loss of over 90 percent of the Central Valleys historic wetlands, ultimately reducing and fragmenting giant garter snake habitat. Water diversions, dams, and pesticide use also contribute to giant garter snake habitat loss. Predation by nonnative species and vehicular traffic may also threaten the species directly. In response to these threats, the giant garter snake was listed as Threatened threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and Threatened threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. Despite efforts under these Acts, the giant garter snake population has not recovered, and as California faces an uncertain future due to climate change, so does the survival of this uniquely Californian species.
(e)Declaring the giant garter snake as the official state snake of California will acknowledge the important place of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California, as well as broadcast and reinforce the states commitment to protecting endangered species.
SEC. 2.Section 422.6 is added to the Government Code, to read:422.6.The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is the official state snake.
The Legislature hereby finds and declares all of the following:
(a)The giant garter snake is endemic to California, meaning it can be found nowhere else in the world. This snake is perfectly adapted to living in wetlands in the Central Valley, with limited distribution throughout the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley.
(b)The giant garter snake is truly a giant and is the largest species of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length.
(c)The giant garter snake is the most aquatic garter snake species and survives in habitat that is characterized by shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. The snake is also found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals for transportation between water bodies.
(d)The giant garter snake is a threatened species and its population has declined by more than 90 percent in the past century. The primary threats to the snakes survival are habitat loss and degradation, as well as predation by nonnative species. Habitat loss is due to several factors, including agricultural development, water diversion, and pollution and pesticides. Furthermore, as California faces an uncertain future due to climate change, so does the survival of this uniquely Californian species. The giant garter snake was listed as Threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and Threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993.
(e)Declaring the giant garter snake as the official state snake of California will acknowledge the important place of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California, as well as broadcast and reinforce the states commitment to protecting endangered species.
SEC. 2.Section 422.6 is added to the Government Code, to read:422.6.The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is the official state snake.
|
Date
|
Status
|
|---|---|
| Oct 9, 2025 | Chaptered by Secretary of State. Chapter 482, Statutes of 2025. |
| Oct 9, 2025 | Approved by the Governor. |
| Sep 9, 2025 | Enrolled and presented to the Governor at 2 p.m. |
| Sep 2, 2025 | Assembly amendments concurred in. (Ayes 40. Noes 0. Page 2406.) Ordered to engrossing and enrolling. |
| Jul 8, 2025 | In Senate. Concurrence in Assembly amendments pending. |
| Jul 7, 2025 | Read third time. Passed. (Ayes 75. Noes 0. Page 2453.) Ordered to the Senate. |
| Jul 2, 2025 | Read second time. Ordered to consent calendar. |
| Jul 1, 2025 | From committee: Do pass. Ordered to consent calendar. (Ayes 12. Noes 0.) (July 1). |
| Jun 23, 2025 | From committee with author's amendments. Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on W. P., & W. |
| Jun 5, 2025 | Referred to Com. on W. P., & W. |
| May 28, 2025 | In Assembly. Read first time. Held at Desk. |
| May 27, 2025 | Read third time. Passed. (Ayes 39. Noes 0. Page 1237.) Ordered to the Assembly. |
| Apr 9, 2025 | Read second time. Ordered to third reading. |
| Apr 8, 2025 | From committee: Do pass. (Ayes 15. Noes 0. Page 704.) (April 8). |
| Mar 28, 2025 | Set for hearing April 8. |
| Mar 12, 2025 | Referred to Com. on G.O. |
| Feb 24, 2025 | Read first time. |
| Feb 24, 2025 | From printer. May be acted upon on or after March 24. |
| Feb 21, 2025 | Introduced. To Com. on RLS. for assignment. To print. |
|
Date
|
Description
|
Location
|
Votes
|
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 2, 2025 | The committee on JHA recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Jul 7, 2025 | SB 765 Niello Consent Calendar Second Day Regular Session | Assembly Floor |
Passed |
|
| Jul 1, 2025 | Do pass. To Consent Calendar. | Assembly Standing Committee on Water, Parks, and Wildlife |
Passed |
|
| May 27, 2025 | Senate 3rd Reading SB765 Niello | Senate Floor |
Passed |
|
| Apr 8, 2025 | Do pass | Senate Standing Committee on Governmental Organization |
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
|
|---|---|---|
| California Rice Commission | ** Support | |
| Defenders Of Wildlife | ** Support | |
| Grassland Water District | ** Support | |
| Save The Snakes | ** Support |
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 | SB 765 |
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Bill No: SB 765
Author: Niello (R)
Amended: 6/23/25 in Assembly
Vote: 21
SENATE GOVERNMENTAL ORG. COMMITTEE: 15-0, 4/8/25
AYES: Padilla, Valladares, Archuleta, Ashby, Blakespear, Cervantes, Dahle, Hurtado, Jones, Ochoa Bogh, Richardson, Rubio, Smallwood-Cuevas, Wahab, Weber Pierson
SENATE FLOOR: 39-0, 5/27/25
AYES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Grove, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Richardson, Rubio, Seyarto, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
NO VOTE RECORDED: Reyes
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 75-0, 7/7/25 (Consent) - See last page for vote
SUBJECT: State snake
SOURCE: California Rice Commission & Save The Snakes
DIGEST:
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as California’s official state snake.
Assembly Amendments
of 6/23/25 Revise the Legislative findings and declarations in the bill.
ANALYSIS:
Existing law establishes the state flag and the California’s myriad official state emblems, including, among other things, the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile, the Pacific leatherback sea turtle as the official state marine reptile, the California red-legged frog as the official state amphibian, and serpentine as the official state rock and lithologic emblem.
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake and includes related legislative findings and declarations, as specified.
Background
Author Statement. According to the author’s office, “the giant garter snake is truly a giant and is the largest species of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length. The giant garter snake is the most aquatic garter snake species and survives in habitat that is characterized by shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. The snake is also found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals for transportation between water bodies. The giant garter snake is a threatened species and its population has declined by more than 90 percent in the past century.”
Additionally, “the primary threats to the snake’s survival are habitat loss and degradation, as well as predation by nonnative species. The giant garter snake was listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and Threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. By naming the Giant Garter Snake as the State Snake of California acknowledges the importance of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California.”
Serpentes. According to Britannica, snakes (suborder Serpentes), are any of more than 3,400 species of reptiles distinguished by their limbless condition and greatly elongated body and tail. Classified with lizards in the order Squamata, snakes represent a lizard that, over the course of evolution, has undergone structural reduction, simplification, and asp-specialization. Notably, all snakes lack external limbs, but not all legless reptiles are snakes. Certain burrowing lizards may have only front or hind limbs or be completely legless. Unlike lizards, snakes lack movable eyelids, which results in a continuous – and often disconcerting – stare.
Nearly every culture since prehistoric times (including various present-day cultures) has worshipped, revered, or feared snakes. Serpent worship is one of the earliest forms of veneration, with some carvings dating to 10,000 BCE. A vast global compendium of superstitions and mythologies have resultantly sprung up. Many stem from the snake’s biological peculiarities: their ability to shed skin is wrapped up together with perceived immortality in lore; their ever-open eyes represent omniscience; their propensity for coyly appearing and disappearing allies the snake with magic and ghosts; and the ability to kill with a single bite engenders fear of any snakelike creature.
A recent study by the American Pet Products Association titled “National Pet Ownership Survey,” notes that approximately 800,000 Americans keep snakes at home as pets. Meanwhile, a 2020 report available on the National Library of Medicine’s website titled “Faster detection of snake and spider phobia: revisited,” reveals that upwards of half of the population experiences some sort of anxiety elicited by snakes. Further, between three and four percent of individuals are estimated to have clinically relevant ophidiophobia (a crippling fear of snakes).
Notably, 2025 is the Lunar Year of the Wood Snake – symbolizing versatility, growth, and creativity. The Lunar Year of the Wood Snake was recognized earlier this Legislative Session by SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) on the Floor of the State Senate.
The Giant Garter Snake. Garter snakes are one of the most widespread snakes in North America, and are a species you might have run into (or from) before. Sometimes mistakenly called a “garden snake,” garter snakes earned their name by resembling the female undergarment, the garter belt. The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is one of the largest garter snakes, with the ability to reach a length of over five feet. The giant garter snake was federally recognized as a threatened species in 1993.
Historically, giant garter snakes were found along the edges of large flood basins, freshwater marshes, and tributaries in California’s Central Valley from Butte County in the north to Kern County in the south. Today, their range extends from Butte and Glenn counties in the north to Fresno County in the south, where they are known to live in a variety of agricultural, managed, and natural wetlands. Giant garter snakes inhabit natural wetlands such as marshes, sloughs, ponds, and small lakes and streams. These snakes also live in artificial waterways and agricultural wetlands, like irrigation and drainage canals and rice fields, as well as adjacent uplands. Only about 5-10% of the giant garter snake’s historical wetland habitat acreage remains.
The giant garter snake is brown or olive to black, with an underside that is light brown or grayish. The snakes typically have a yellowish dorsal stripe, a light gold to yellow stripe on each side, and two rows of dark blotches on their sides. It is a large snake with keeled dorsal scales and a head slightly wider than the neck.
Other Snakes for Your Consssideration. This bill presents a classic forked tongue dilemma. Should California name a state snake, and if so, just which snake is most deserving of the honor? When weighing options, the Legislature may wish to contemplate some of California’s other iconic basilisks before deciding which species of snake tips the scales in favor of official state status. Alternatives include the California kingsnake, a non-venomous predator, helping control populations of rodents and even venomous snakes, contributing to natural pest control. Often admired for its adaptive behavior and beneficial role in the ecosystem, it has a positive reputation among ophidiophiles.
The Northern Pacific rattlesnake, also known as the Western rattlesnake, is one of the more iconic rattlesnakes in California, having long been a part of the local folklore and the natural history of the region. Despite its venomous reputation, it plays a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems by regulating prey populations. Its presence in rugged and wild areas can serve as a symbol of California’s natural landscapes and the need to respect and protect them. The California striped whipsnake is known for its quick movements and sleek form, representing agility and resilience in California’s diverse terrains.
The San Francisco garter snake is critically endangered and iconic for its vibrant colors, considered one of America’s most beautiful snakes by the herpetologically inclined. It is estimated that there are only 1,000 to 2,000 adult snakes of the subspecies remaining, identifiable by their fierce blue-green coloring, bordered by stripes of black, red, orange, blue, and green – at times resembling a rainbow.
California’s Official State Emblems. California is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, global influence, and its industrious and vibrant people. Boasting a unique array of official symbols, the state represents its natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural identity through emblems. These symbols serve as reminders for residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the state's distinct identity and the importance of preserving its heritage for future generations. As California continues to evolve and grow, its state emblems are intended to remain steadfast symbols of the state’s past, present, and future.
For example, the golden poppy is codified as the official state flower, representing the state’s vibrant landscapes and wildflower fields. Many people believe that emblem law prohibits cutting or damaging the California poppy because of its official designation. In fact, there is no law specifically protecting the California poppy, but the designation endears a special appreciation of the flower and has perpetuated the myth that no one may pick them. Designated in 1903, the golden poppy symbolizes the beauty of California’s natural environment.
A number of the state’s official emblems lean heavily on California’s Gold Rush history. The official state motto – “Eureka” – is a Greek word that translates to “I have found it.” In the context of California, the motto is closely tied to the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855. Gold discovered at Sutter's Mill in 1848 sparked a massive influx of fortune-seekers who flocked to California to seek wealth and prosperity. Native gold is designated as the official state mineral and mineralogic emblem, while “The Golden State” serves as the official state nickname, and Bodie is established as the official state gold rush ghost town.
Recent additions to the list of official state emblems include the California Golden Chanterelle (state mushroom), the pallid bat (state bat), the banana slug (state slug), the shell of the black abalone (state sea shell), and the Dungeness crab (state crustacean) – all having been added during the 2023-24 Legislative Session.
California is now represented by nearly 50 state symbols, 43 of which are codified by statute in Government Code including: state amphibian, animal, bird, colors, dance, dinosaur, fabric, flower, flag, folk dance, fossil, gemstone, gold rush ghost town, grass, historical society, insect, LGBTQ veterans memorial, lichen, marine fish, marine mammal, marine reptile, military museum, mineral, motto, mushroom, nickname, nuts, prehistoric artifact, reptile, rock, seal, silver rush ghost town, soil, song, sport, tall ship, tartan, tree, and Vietnam veterans memorial.
Almost Official. It is not always smooth slithering for measures seeking official state symbol status. Examples include, AB 868 (E. Garcia, 2021) proposed to establish the date shake as the official state milkshake. That bill was approved by the Assembly but never heard in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee. AB 1769 (Voepel, 2018) would have established the California Vaquero Horse as the official state horse. That bill was never heard in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee.
In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger terminated the possibility of recognizing Zinfandel as “California’s historic wine” contemplated by AB 1253 (Migden, 2006). As introduced, the bill sought to designate that particular varietal as an official state emblem. However, the bill was watered down after much attention and negotiation and instead proposed Zinfandel as historic. Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed the legislation writing, in part, “California wines have inspired authors, artists and Oscar-winning motion pictures. Singling one out for special recognition would be inappropriate.” That bill is yet to be back.
The importance of state emblems in California, as well as in any other state, is their ability to convey the unique identity, values, and history of the region. As such, when proposing new official state emblems, it is crucial to give careful consideration to the emblem's significance to the state and its resonance with both current and future residents. Emblems serve as reminders of the state's heritage and represent the collective consciousness of its people. By recognizing emblems that hold deep meaning and relevance, California can effectively celebrate its past, present, and future, while inspiring residents to appreciate and preserve the state's legacy. It may be important to consider whether, after a certain point, the state’s emblem collection turns from distinctive to distractingly decorative.
Slytherin’ Down a Slippery Slope? Designating a new state symbol can briefly rattle a media response (whether that be negative or positive), but does not always materially accomplish any particular policy goal such as supporting habitat, research, or protections for the identified symbol. Each time a new symbol sparks a burst of attention, it may lead to a sort of “emblem fatigue” as successive designations produce progressively smaller spikes in public interest and can foster a growing frustration from the general public. Exceptions to the emblematic law of diminishing returns include the bald eagle (United States of America), giant panda (China), and Bengal tiger (India) that have seen natural populations rebound after intense, well-funded recovery campaigns and attention. Alternatively, the California Grizzly Bear – the official state animal – went extinct in 1922 when the last known bear was shot in Tulare County.
Further, a February 1, 2024, article in CalMatters titled “A bill for every problem? Why California lawmakers introduce longshots,” cites a 2002 Legislative Analyst’s Office estimate that “each bill cost at least $18,000 to go from introduction to passage: Each bill is given a title and number, goes through analysis by committee staff and is printed out. An updated dollar figure from the legislative analyst was not available, but adjusting for inflation, each bill costs in the neighborhood of $30,000.”
The article goes on to note that, “[e]ven Jerry Brown, who famously vetoed a bill with the message, ‘Not every human problem deserves a law,’ signed a majority of those sent to his desk while he was governor.”
California’s Proposition, 140 approved by the voters in 1990 – among other things – limited the total amount of expenditures allowed by the Legislature. The Legislature may wish to consider at what point establishing additional state symbols reaches a breaking point in a larger cost-benefit analysis. Alternative avenues currently exist that allow for the Legislature to recognize the myriad iconic animals, places, and things that make California a globally recognized cultural driver it is – without the need for creating new statute. Options may include resolutions which are commonly adopted and allow the Legislature to highlight particularly notable animals, plants, places, or items within the state.
Related/Prior Legislation
SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) recognized January 29, 2025, as the beginning of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Wood Snake), as specified.
AB 581 (Bennett, 2025) establishes the bigberry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) as the official state shrub. (Pending on the Senate Floor)
AB 666 (Rogers, 2025) establishes Bigfoot as the official state cryptid. (Held in the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, & Tourism Committee without Recommendation)
AB 1334 (Wallis, 2025) establishes solar energy as the official state energy. (Pending in the Senate Governmental Organization)
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 8/28/25)
California Rice Commission (Co-source)
Save The Snakes (Co-source)
Defenders of Wildlife
Grassland Water District
Native Daughters of the Golden West
OPPOSITION: (Verified 8/28/25)
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: In support of this bill, the cosponsors write that, “California’s rice industry has a strong reputation for partnering with organizations like Save the Snakes to create and protect habitat for a number of important species, including the giant garter snake. A recently released report by UC Davis entitled A Conservation Footprint for California Rice states, ‘With the draining and loss of much historical wetland habitat, flooded rice now provides critical surrogate habitat for the protected Giant Garter snake.’”
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 75-0, 7/7/25
AYES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Celeste Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
NO VOTE RECORDED: Castillo, Harabedian, Patterson, Sanchez
Prepared by: Brian Duke / G.O. / (916) 651-1530
8/28/25 16:44:11
**** END ****
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 | SB 765 |
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Bill No: SB 765
Author: Niello (R)
Amended: 6/23/25 in Assembly
Vote: 21
SENATE GOVERNMENTAL ORG. COMMITTEE: 15-0, 4/8/25
AYES: Padilla, Valladares, Archuleta, Ashby, Blakespear, Cervantes, Dahle, Hurtado, Jones, Ochoa Bogh, Richardson, Rubio, Smallwood-Cuevas, Wahab, Weber Pierson
SENATE FLOOR: 39-0, 5/27/25
AYES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Grove, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Richardson, Rubio, Seyarto, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
NO VOTE RECORDED: Reyes
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 75-0, 7/7/25 (Consent) - See last page for vote
SUBJECT: State snake
SOURCE: California Rice Commission & Save The Snakes
DIGEST:
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as California’s official state snake.
Assembly Amendments
of 6/23/25 Revise the Legislative findings and declarations in the bill.
ANALYSIS:
Existing law establishes the state flag and the California’s myriad official state emblems, including, among other things, the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile, the Pacific leatherback sea turtle as the official state marine reptile, the California red-legged frog as the official state amphibian, and serpentine as the official state rock and lithologic emblem.
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake and includes related legislative findings and declarations, as specified.
Background
Author Statement. According to the author’s office, “the giant garter snake is truly a giant and is the largest species of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length. The giant garter snake is the most aquatic garter snake species and survives in habitat that is characterized by shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. The snake is also found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals for transportation between water bodies. The giant garter snake is a threatened species and its population has declined by more than 90 percent in the past century.”
Additionally, “the primary threats to the snake’s survival are habitat loss and degradation, as well as predation by nonnative species. The giant garter snake was listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and Threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. By naming the Giant Garter Snake as the State Snake of California acknowledges the importance of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California.”
Serpentes. According to Britannica, snakes (suborder Serpentes), are any of more than 3,400 species of reptiles distinguished by their limbless condition and greatly elongated body and tail. Classified with lizards in the order Squamata, snakes represent a lizard that, over the course of evolution, has undergone structural reduction, simplification, and asp-specialization. Notably, all snakes lack external limbs, but not all legless reptiles are snakes. Certain burrowing lizards may have only front or hind limbs or be completely legless. Unlike lizards, snakes lack movable eyelids, which results in a continuous – and often disconcerting – stare.
Nearly every culture since prehistoric times (including various present-day cultures) has worshipped, revered, or feared snakes. Serpent worship is one of the earliest forms of veneration, with some carvings dating to 10,000 BCE. A vast global compendium of superstitions and mythologies have resultantly sprung up. Many stem from the snake’s biological peculiarities: their ability to shed skin is wrapped up together with perceived immortality in lore; their ever-open eyes represent omniscience; their propensity for coyly appearing and disappearing allies the snake with magic and ghosts; and the ability to kill with a single bite engenders fear of any snakelike creature.
A recent study by the American Pet Products Association titled “National Pet Ownership Survey,” notes that approximately 800,000 Americans keep snakes at home as pets. Meanwhile, a 2020 report available on the National Library of Medicine’s website titled “Faster detection of snake and spider phobia: revisited,” reveals that upwards of half of the population experiences some sort of anxiety elicited by snakes. Further, between three and four percent of individuals are estimated to have clinically relevant ophidiophobia (a crippling fear of snakes).
Notably, 2025 is the Lunar Year of the Wood Snake – symbolizing versatility, growth, and creativity. The Lunar Year of the Wood Snake was recognized earlier this Legislative Session by SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) on the Floor of the State Senate.
The Giant Garter Snake. Garter snakes are one of the most widespread snakes in North America, and are a species you might have run into (or from) before. Sometimes mistakenly called a “garden snake,” garter snakes earned their name by resembling the female undergarment, the garter belt. The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is one of the largest garter snakes, with the ability to reach a length of over five feet. The giant garter snake was federally recognized as a threatened species in 1993.
Historically, giant garter snakes were found along the edges of large flood basins, freshwater marshes, and tributaries in California’s Central Valley from Butte County in the north to Kern County in the south. Today, their range extends from Butte and Glenn counties in the north to Fresno County in the south, where they are known to live in a variety of agricultural, managed, and natural wetlands. Giant garter snakes inhabit natural wetlands such as marshes, sloughs, ponds, and small lakes and streams. These snakes also live in artificial waterways and agricultural wetlands, like irrigation and drainage canals and rice fields, as well as adjacent uplands. Only about 5-10% of the giant garter snake’s historical wetland habitat acreage remains.
The giant garter snake is brown or olive to black, with an underside that is light brown or grayish. The snakes typically have a yellowish dorsal stripe, a light gold to yellow stripe on each side, and two rows of dark blotches on their sides. It is a large snake with keeled dorsal scales and a head slightly wider than the neck.
Other Snakes for Your Consssideration. This bill presents a classic forked tongue dilemma. Should California name a state snake, and if so, just which snake is most deserving of the honor? When weighing options, the Legislature may wish to contemplate some of California’s other iconic basilisks before deciding which species of snake tips the scales in favor of official state status. Alternatives include the California kingsnake, a non-venomous predator, helping control populations of rodents and even venomous snakes, contributing to natural pest control. Often admired for its adaptive behavior and beneficial role in the ecosystem, it has a positive reputation among ophidiophiles.
The Northern Pacific rattlesnake, also known as the Western rattlesnake, is one of the more iconic rattlesnakes in California, having long been a part of the local folklore and the natural history of the region. Despite its venomous reputation, it plays a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems by regulating prey populations. Its presence in rugged and wild areas can serve as a symbol of California’s natural landscapes and the need to respect and protect them. The California striped whipsnake is known for its quick movements and sleek form, representing agility and resilience in California’s diverse terrains.
The San Francisco garter snake is critically endangered and iconic for its vibrant colors, considered one of America’s most beautiful snakes by the herpetologically inclined. It is estimated that there are only 1,000 to 2,000 adult snakes of the subspecies remaining, identifiable by their fierce blue-green coloring, bordered by stripes of black, red, orange, blue, and green – at times resembling a rainbow.
California’s Official State Emblems. California is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, global influence, and its industrious and vibrant people. Boasting a unique array of official symbols, the state represents its natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural identity through emblems. These symbols serve as reminders for residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the state's distinct identity and the importance of preserving its heritage for future generations. As California continues to evolve and grow, its state emblems are intended to remain steadfast symbols of the state’s past, present, and future.
For example, the golden poppy is codified as the official state flower, representing the state’s vibrant landscapes and wildflower fields. Many people believe that emblem law prohibits cutting or damaging the California poppy because of its official designation. In fact, there is no law specifically protecting the California poppy, but the designation endears a special appreciation of the flower and has perpetuated the myth that no one may pick them. Designated in 1903, the golden poppy symbolizes the beauty of California’s natural environment.
A number of the state’s official emblems lean heavily on California’s Gold Rush history. The official state motto – “Eureka” – is a Greek word that translates to “I have found it.” In the context of California, the motto is closely tied to the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855. Gold discovered at Sutter's Mill in 1848 sparked a massive influx of fortune-seekers who flocked to California to seek wealth and prosperity. Native gold is designated as the official state mineral and mineralogic emblem, while “The Golden State” serves as the official state nickname, and Bodie is established as the official state gold rush ghost town.
Recent additions to the list of official state emblems include the California Golden Chanterelle (state mushroom), the pallid bat (state bat), the banana slug (state slug), the shell of the black abalone (state sea shell), and the Dungeness crab (state crustacean) – all having been added during the 2023-24 Legislative Session.
California is now represented by nearly 50 state symbols, 43 of which are codified by statute in Government Code including: state amphibian, animal, bird, colors, dance, dinosaur, fabric, flower, flag, folk dance, fossil, gemstone, gold rush ghost town, grass, historical society, insect, LGBTQ veterans memorial, lichen, marine fish, marine mammal, marine reptile, military museum, mineral, motto, mushroom, nickname, nuts, prehistoric artifact, reptile, rock, seal, silver rush ghost town, soil, song, sport, tall ship, tartan, tree, and Vietnam veterans memorial.
Almost Official. It is not always smooth slithering for measures seeking official state symbol status. Examples include, AB 868 (E. Garcia, 2021) proposed to establish the date shake as the official state milkshake. That bill was approved by the Assembly but never heard in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee. AB 1769 (Voepel, 2018) would have established the California Vaquero Horse as the official state horse. That bill was never heard in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee.
In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger terminated the possibility of recognizing Zinfandel as “California’s historic wine” contemplated by AB 1253 (Migden, 2006). As introduced, the bill sought to designate that particular varietal as an official state emblem. However, the bill was watered down after much attention and negotiation and instead proposed Zinfandel as historic. Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed the legislation writing, in part, “California wines have inspired authors, artists and Oscar-winning motion pictures. Singling one out for special recognition would be inappropriate.” That bill is yet to be back.
The importance of state emblems in California, as well as in any other state, is their ability to convey the unique identity, values, and history of the region. As such, when proposing new official state emblems, it is crucial to give careful consideration to the emblem's significance to the state and its resonance with both current and future residents. Emblems serve as reminders of the state's heritage and represent the collective consciousness of its people. By recognizing emblems that hold deep meaning and relevance, California can effectively celebrate its past, present, and future, while inspiring residents to appreciate and preserve the state's legacy. It may be important to consider whether, after a certain point, the state’s emblem collection turns from distinctive to distractingly decorative.
Slytherin’ Down a Slippery Slope? Designating a new state symbol can briefly rattle a media response (whether that be negative or positive), but does not always materially accomplish any particular policy goal such as supporting habitat, research, or protections for the identified symbol. Each time a new symbol sparks a burst of attention, it may lead to a sort of “emblem fatigue” as successive designations produce progressively smaller spikes in public interest and can foster a growing frustration from the general public. Exceptions to the emblematic law of diminishing returns include the bald eagle (United States of America), giant panda (China), and Bengal tiger (India) that have seen natural populations rebound after intense, well-funded recovery campaigns and attention. Alternatively, the California Grizzly Bear – the official state animal – went extinct in 1922 when the last known bear was shot in Tulare County.
Further, a February 1, 2024, article in CalMatters titled “A bill for every problem? Why California lawmakers introduce longshots,” cites a 2002 Legislative Analyst’s Office estimate that “each bill cost at least $18,000 to go from introduction to passage: Each bill is given a title and number, goes through analysis by committee staff and is printed out. An updated dollar figure from the legislative analyst was not available, but adjusting for inflation, each bill costs in the neighborhood of $30,000.”
The article goes on to note that, “[e]ven Jerry Brown, who famously vetoed a bill with the message, ‘Not every human problem deserves a law,’ signed a majority of those sent to his desk while he was governor.”
California’s Proposition, 140 approved by the voters in 1990 – among other things – limited the total amount of expenditures allowed by the Legislature. The Legislature may wish to consider at what point establishing additional state symbols reaches a breaking point in a larger cost-benefit analysis. Alternative avenues currently exist that allow for the Legislature to recognize the myriad iconic animals, places, and things that make California a globally recognized cultural driver it is – without the need for creating new statute. Options may include resolutions which are commonly adopted and allow the Legislature to highlight particularly notable animals, plants, places, or items within the state.
Related/Prior Legislation
SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) recognized January 29, 2025, as the beginning of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Wood Snake), as specified.
AB 581 (Bennett, 2025) establishes the bigberry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) as the official state shrub. (Pending on the Senate Floor)
AB 666 (Rogers, 2025) establishes Bigfoot as the official state cryptid. (Held in the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, & Tourism Committee without Recommendation)
AB 1334 (Wallis, 2025) establishes solar energy as the official state energy. (Pending in the Senate Governmental Organization)
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 8/15/25)
California Rice Commission (Co-source)
Save The Snakes (Co-source)
Defenders of Wildlife
Grassland Water District
OPPOSITION: (Verified 8/15/25)
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: In support of this bill, the cosponsors write that, “California’s rice industry has a strong reputation for partnering with organizations like Save the Snakes to create and protect habitat for a number of important species, including the giant garter snake. A recently released report by UC Davis entitled A Conservation Footprint for California Rice states, ‘With the draining and loss of much historical wetland habitat, flooded rice now provides critical surrogate habitat for the protected Giant Garter snake.’”
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 75-0, 7/7/25
AYES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Celeste Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
NO VOTE RECORDED: Castillo, Harabedian, Patterson, Sanchez
Prepared by: Brian Duke / G.O. / (916) 651-1530
8/15/25 16:00:32
**** END ****
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 | SB 765 |
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Bill No: SB 765
Author: Niello (R)
Amended: 6/23/25
Vote: 21
SENATE GOVERNMENTAL ORG. COMMITTEE: 15-0, 4/8/25
AYES: Padilla, Valladares, Archuleta, Ashby, Blakespear, Cervantes, Dahle, Hurtado, Jones, Ochoa Bogh, Richardson, Rubio, Smallwood-Cuevas, Wahab, Weber Pierson
SENATE FLOOR: 39-0, 5/27/25
AYES: Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese, Dahle, Durazo, Gonzalez, Grayson, Grove, Hurtado, Jones, Laird, Limón, McGuire, McNerney, Menjivar, Niello, Ochoa Bogh, Padilla, Pérez, Richardson, Rubio, Seyarto, Smallwood-Cuevas, Stern, Strickland, Umberg, Valladares, Wahab, Weber Pierson, Wiener
NO VOTE RECORDED: Reyes
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 75-0, 7/7/25 (Consent) - See last page for vote
SUBJECT: State snake
SOURCE: California Rice Commission & Save The Snakes
DIGEST:
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as California’s official state snake.
Assembly Amendments
Revise the Legislative findings and declarations in the bill.
ANALYSIS:
Existing law establishes the state flag and the California’s myriad official state emblems, including, among other things, the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile, the Pacific leatherback sea turtle as the official state marine reptile, the California red-legged frog as the official state amphibian, and serpentine as the official state rock and lithologic emblem.
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake and includes related legislative findings and declarations, as specified.
Background
Author Statement. According to the author’s office, “the giant garter snake is truly a giant and is the largest species of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length. The giant garter snake is the most aquatic garter snake species and survives in habitat that is characterized by shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. The snake is also found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals for transportation between water bodies. The giant garter snake is a threatened species and its population has declined by more than 90 percent in the past century.”
Additionally, “the primary threats to the snake’s survival are habitat loss and degradation, as well as predation by nonnative species. The giant garter snake was listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and Threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. By naming the Giant Garter Snake as the State Snake of California acknowledges the importance of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California.”
Serpentes. According to Britannica, snakes (suborder Serpentes), are any of more than 3,400 species of reptiles distinguished by their limbless condition and greatly elongated body and tail. Classified with lizards in the order Squamata, snakes represent a lizard that, over the course of evolution, has undergone structural reduction, simplification, and asp-specialization. Notably, all snakes lack external limbs, but not all legless reptiles are snakes. Certain burrowing lizards may have only front or hind limbs or be completely legless. Unlike lizards, snakes lack movable eyelids, which results in a continuous – and often disconcerting – stare.
Nearly every culture since prehistoric times (including various present-day cultures) has worshipped, revered, or feared snakes. Serpent worship is one of the earliest forms of veneration, with some carvings dating to 10,000 BCE. A vast global compendium of superstitions and mythologies have resultantly sprung up. Many stem from the snake’s biological peculiarities: their ability to shed skin is wrapped up together with perceived immortality in lore; their ever-open eyes represent omniscience; their propensity for coyly appearing and disappearing allies the snake with magic and ghosts; and the ability to kill with a single bite engenders fear of any snakelike creature.
A recent study by the American Pet Products Association titled “National Pet Ownership Survey,” notes that approximately 800,000 Americans keep snakes at home as pets. Meanwhile, a 2020 report available on the National Library of Medicine’s website titled “Faster detection of snake and spider phobia: revisited,” reveals that upwards of half of the population experiences some sort of anxiety elicited by snakes. Further, between three and four percent of individuals are estimated to have clinically relevant ophidiophobia (a crippling fear of snakes).
Notably, 2025 is the Lunar Year of the Wood Snake – symbolizing versatility, growth, and creativity. The Lunar Year of the Wood Snake was recognized earlier this Legislative Session by SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) on the Floor of the State Senate.
The Giant Garter Snake. Garter snakes are one of the most widespread snakes in North America, and are a species you might have run into (or from) before. Sometimes mistakenly called a “garden snake,” garter snakes earned their name by resembling the female undergarment, the garter belt. The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is one of the largest garter snakes, with the ability to reach a length of over five feet. The giant garter snake was federally recognized as a threatened species in 1993.
Historically, giant garter snakes were found along the edges of large flood basins, freshwater marshes, and tributaries in California’s Central Valley from Butte County in the north to Kern County in the south. Today, their range extends from Butte and Glenn counties in the north to Fresno County in the south, where they are known to live in a variety of agricultural, managed, and natural wetlands. Giant garter snakes inhabit natural wetlands such as marshes, sloughs, ponds, and small lakes and streams. These snakes also live in artificial waterways and agricultural wetlands, like irrigation and drainage canals and rice fields, as well as adjacent uplands. Only about 5-10% of the giant garter snake’s historical wetland habitat acreage remains.
The giant garter snake is brown or olive to black, with an underside that is light brown or grayish. The snakes typically have a yellowish dorsal stripe, a light gold to yellow stripe on each side, and two rows of dark blotches on their sides. It is a large snake with keeled dorsal scales and a head slightly wider than the neck.
Other Snakes for Your Consssideration. This bill presents a classic forked tongue dilemma. Should California name a state snake, and if so, just which snake is most deserving of the honor? When weighing options, the Legislature may wish to contemplate some of California’s other iconic basilisks before deciding which species of snake tips the scales in favor of official state status. Alternatives include the California kingsnake, a non-venomous predator, helping control populations of rodents and even venomous snakes, contributing to natural pest control. Often admired for its adaptive behavior and beneficial role in the ecosystem, it has a positive reputation among ophidiophiles.
The Northern Pacific rattlesnake, also known as the Western rattlesnake, is one of the more iconic rattlesnakes in California, having long been a part of the local folklore and the natural history of the region. Despite its venomous reputation, it plays a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems by regulating prey populations. Its presence in rugged and wild areas can serve as a symbol of California’s natural landscapes and the need to respect and protect them. The California striped whipsnake is known for its quick movements and sleek form, representing agility and resilience in California’s diverse terrains.
The San Francisco garter snake is critically endangered and iconic for its vibrant colors, considered one of America’s most beautiful snakes by the herpetologically inclined. It is estimated that there are only 1,000 to 2,000 adult snakes of the subspecies remaining, identifiable by their fierce blue-green coloring, bordered by stripes of black, red, orange, blue, and green – at times resembling a rainbow.
California’s Official State Emblems. California is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, global influence, and its industrious and vibrant people. Boasting a unique array of official symbols, the state represents its natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural identity through emblems. These symbols serve as reminders for residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the state's distinct identity and the importance of preserving its heritage for future generations. As California continues to evolve and grow, its state emblems are intended to remain steadfast symbols of the state’s past, present, and future.
For example, the golden poppy is codified as the official state flower, representing the state’s vibrant landscapes and wildflower fields. Many people believe that emblem law prohibits cutting or damaging the California poppy because of its official designation. In fact, there is no law specifically protecting the California poppy, but the designation endears a special appreciation of the flower and has perpetuated the myth that no one may pick them. Designated in 1903, the golden poppy symbolizes the beauty of California’s natural environment.
A number of the state’s official emblems lean heavily on California’s Gold Rush history. The official state motto – “Eureka” – is a Greek word that translates to “I have found it.” In the context of California, the motto is closely tied to the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855. Gold discovered at Sutter's Mill in 1848 sparked a massive influx of fortune-seekers who flocked to California to seek wealth and prosperity. Native gold is designated as the official state mineral and mineralogic emblem, while “The Golden State” serves as the official state nickname, and Bodie is established as the official state gold rush ghost town.
Recent additions to the list of official state emblems include the California Golden Chanterelle (state mushroom), the pallid bat (state bat), the banana slug (state slug), the shell of the black abalone (state sea shell), and the Dungeness crab (state crustacean) – all having been added during the 2023-24 Legislative Session.
California is now represented by nearly 50 state symbols, 43 of which are codified by statute in Government Code including: state amphibian, animal, bird, colors, dance, dinosaur, fabric, flower, flag, folk dance, fossil, gemstone, gold rush ghost town, grass, historical society, insect, LGBTQ veterans memorial, lichen, marine fish, marine mammal, marine reptile, military museum, mineral, motto, mushroom, nickname, nuts, prehistoric artifact, reptile, rock, seal, silver rush ghost town, soil, song, sport, tall ship, tartan, tree, and Vietnam veterans memorial.
Almost Official. It is not always smooth slithering for measures seeking official state symbol status. Examples include, AB 868 (E. Garcia, 2021) proposed to establish the date shake as the official state milkshake. That bill was approved by the Assembly but never heard in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee. AB 1769 (Voepel, 2018) would have established the California Vaquero Horse as the official state horse. That bill was never heard in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee.
In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger terminated the possibility of recognizing Zinfandel as “California’s historic wine” contemplated by AB 1253 (Migden, 2006). As introduced, the bill sought to designate that particular varietal as an official state emblem. However, the bill was watered down after much attention and negotiation and instead proposed Zinfandel as historic. Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed the legislation writing, in part, “California wines have inspired authors, artists and Oscar-winning motion pictures. Singling one out for special recognition would be inappropriate.” That bill is yet to be back.
The importance of state emblems in California, as well as in any other state, is their ability to convey the unique identity, values, and history of the region. As such, when proposing new official state emblems, it is crucial to give careful consideration to the emblem's significance to the state and its resonance with both current and future residents. Emblems serve as reminders of the state's heritage and represent the collective consciousness of its people. By recognizing emblems that hold deep meaning and relevance, California can effectively celebrate its past, present, and future, while inspiring residents to appreciate and preserve the state's legacy. It may be important to consider whether, after a certain point, the state’s emblem collection turns from distinctive to distractingly decorative.
Slytherin’ Down a Slippery Slope? Designating a new state symbol can briefly rattle a media response (whether that be negative or positive), but does not always materially accomplish any particular policy goal such as supporting habitat, research, or protections for the identified symbol. Each time a new symbol sparks a burst of attention, it may lead to a sort of “emblem fatigue” as successive designations produce progressively smaller spikes in public interest and can foster a growing frustration from the general public. Exceptions to the emblematic law of diminishing returns include the bald eagle (United States of America), giant panda (China), and Bengal tiger (India) that have seen natural populations rebound after intense, well-funded recovery campaigns and attention. Alternatively, the California Grizzly Bear – the official state animal – went extinct in 1922 when the last known bear was shot in Tulare County.
Further, a February 1, 2024, article in CalMatters titled “A bill for every problem? Why California lawmakers introduce longshots,” cites a 2002 Legislative Analyst’s Office estimate that “each bill cost at least $18,000 to go from introduction to passage: Each bill is given a title and number, goes through analysis by committee staff and is printed out. An updated dollar figure from the legislative analyst was not available, but adjusting for inflation, each bill costs in the neighborhood of $30,000.”
The article goes on to note that, “[e]ven Jerry Brown, who famously vetoed a bill with the message, ‘Not every human problem deserves a law,’ signed a majority of those sent to his desk while he was governor.”
California’s Proposition, 140 approved by the voters in 1990 – among other things – limited the total amount of expenditures allowed by the Legislature. The Legislature may wish to consider at what point establishing additional state symbols reaches a breaking point in a larger cost-benefit analysis. Alternative avenues currently exist that allow for the Legislature to recognize the myriad iconic animals, places, and things that make California a globally recognized cultural driver it is – without the need for creating new statute. Options may include resolutions which are commonly adopted and allow the Legislature to highlight particularly notable animals, plants, places, or items within the state.
Related/Prior Legislation
SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) recognized January 29, 2025, as the beginning of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Wood Snake), as specified.
AB 581 (Bennett, 2025) establishes the bigberry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) as the official state shrub. (Pending on the Senate Floor)
AB 666 (Rogers, 2025) establishes Bigfoot as the official state cryptid. (Held in the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, & Tourism Committee without Recommendation)
AB 1334 (Wallis, 2025) establishes solar energy as the official state energy. (Pending in the Senate Governmental Organization)
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 7/11/25)
California Rice Commission (Co-source)
Save The Snakes (Co-source)
Defenders of Wildlife
Grassland Water District
OPPOSITION: (Verified 7/11/25)
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: In support of this bill, the cosponsors write that, “California’s rice industry has a strong reputation for partnering with organizations like Save the Snakes to create and protect habitat for a number of important species, including the giant garter snake. A recently released report by UC Davis entitled A Conservation Footprint for California Rice states, ‘With the draining and loss of much historical wetland habitat, flooded rice now provides critical surrogate habitat for the protected Giant Garter snake.’”
ASSEMBLY FLOOR: 75-0, 7/7/25
AYES: Addis, Aguiar-Curry, Ahrens, Alanis, Alvarez, Arambula, Ávila Farías, Bains, Bauer-Kahan, Bennett, Berman, Boerner, Bonta, Bryan, Calderon, Caloza, Carrillo, Chen, Connolly, Davies, DeMaio, Dixon, Elhawary, Ellis, Flora, Fong, Gabriel, Gallagher, Garcia, Gipson, Jeff Gonzalez, Mark González, Hadwick, Haney, Hart, Hoover, Irwin, Jackson, Kalra, Krell, Lackey, Lee, Lowenthal, Macedo, McKinnor, Muratsuchi, Nguyen, Ortega, Pacheco, Papan, Patel, Pellerin, Petrie-Norris, Quirk-Silva, Ramos, Ransom, Celeste Rodriguez, Michelle Rodriguez, Rogers, Blanca Rubio, Schiavo, Schultz, Sharp-Collins, Solache, Soria, Stefani, Ta, Tangipa, Valencia, Wallis, Ward, Wicks, Wilson, Zbur, Rivas
NO VOTE RECORDED: Castillo, Harabedian, Patterson, Sanchez
Prepared by: Brian Duke / G.O. / (916) 651-1530
7/11/25 15:17:42
**** END ****
Date of Hearing: July 1, 2025
ASSEMBLY COMMITTEE ON WATER, PARKS, AND WILDLIFE
Diane Papan, Chair
SBPCA Bill Id:SB 765
Author:(Niello) – As Amended Ver:June 23, 2025
SENATE VOTE: 39-0
SUBJECT: State snake
SUMMARY: Declares that the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is the official state snake of California and makes findings and declarations regarding the threats to the snake’s population.
EXISTING LAW:
- Declares, among other official emblems, that:
- The golden poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is the state flower (Government Code § 421);
- The California redwood (Sequoia sempervirens, Sequoia gigantean) is the state tree (Government Code § 422);
- The California red-legged frog (Rana draytonii) is the state amphibian (Government Code § 422.7);
- The California desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is the state reptile (Government Code § 422.5);
- The California dog-face butterfly (Zerene eurydice) is the state insect (Government Code § 424.5); and
- The pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus) is the state bat (Government Code § 425.12).
- Does not identify an official state snake.
FISCAL EFFECT: None. This bill is keyed non-fiscal.
COMMENTS:
- Purpose of this bill. According to the author, “By naming the Giant Garter Snake as the State Snake of California acknowledges the importance of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California.”
- Background. Giant garter snakes (Thamnophis gigas) are semi-aquatic snakes endemic to marshes, sloughs and other stagnant or slow-moving aquatic habitats of California’s Central Valley. Although they once ranged through all but the most northern portions of the Central Valley, the loss of wetlands has extirpated them from about two-thirds of their historical range. Currently, giant garter snakes range from Butte County to Fresno County.
Giant garter snakes are identified by their dark bodies, yellow dorsal stripe, and pale-yellow lateral stripes. Female giant garter snakes reach a larger size than males, with the largest measured snake being over five feet long. Historically, giant garter snakes preyed on fish and amphibians, some of which are locally extinct. Now, giant garter snakes have radically changed their diet and target more general fish and even invasive species like the American bullfrog.
Adult, Yolo County © Gary Nafis. Specimen courtesy of Glen Wylie, USGS
Giant garter snakes were once found throughout the rivers and floodplains of the Central Valley. However, due to agricultural conversion and urban development, these historic floodplains have been dramatically altered by levees, canals, and fields. This has ultimately led to a loss of over 90% of the historic wetlands in the Central Valley. Although some agricultural habitats, like rice, support giant garter snake populations, rice fields are a poor facsimile for the original wetlands because of the lack of complexity and ability to reproduce the natural phenomena that the snakes are best adapted to. Despite this difficulty, the lack of suitable, natural habitat means that these snakes are dependent on rice agriculture.
Because of this loss of habitat, giant garter snakes were among the inaugural list of species listed under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) in 1970. The species was subsequently listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 1993. The reason for these listings has primarily been habitat loss caused by development and conversion from wetlands to agriculture. Research indicates that listing under both CESA and ESA has benefited giant garter snake conservation, although in order to fully recover the species, substantial investments will need to be made in habitat restoration, ensuring reliable water supplies, and further research into better management practices.
- Policy considerations. California is now represented by 47 symbols, 43 of which are codified: state amphibian, animal, bat, bird, colors, crab, dance, dinosaur, fabric, flower, flag, folk dance, fossil, gemstone, gold rush ghost town, grass, historical society, insect, LGBTQ veterans memorial, lichen, marine fish, marine mammal, marine reptile, military museum, mineral, motto, mushroom, nickname, nuts, prehistoric artifact, reptile, rock, seal, shell, silver rush ghost town, slug, soil, song, sport, tall ship, tartan, tree, and Vietnam veterans memorial (Government Code §§ 420–429.9). Should the giant garter snake slither onto this list? It is worth noting that California already has both a state reptile and marine reptile, so arguably, this slot has been filled. By further dividing classifications, it might not be long until a state lizard is proposed. See “Related legislation” for a collection of current and unsuccessful state symbol legislation. The Committee may wish to consider, at what point does adding additional symbols make the designation meaningless?
Symbols present a heartwarming opportunity for reflection, recognition, and civic engagement. Designating a new state symbol may briefly stir a media response, but does not materially accomplish any policy goal such as supporting habitat, research, or protections for the identified symbol. With Proposition 140 (1990) capping the Legislature’s funding, is continuing to establish additional state symbols an appropriate use of the Legislature’s limited resources? Other options are available to the Legislature, such as Resolutions, to establish state symbols. The Golden Trout (state freshwater fish), the California Coastal Trail (state trail), the California Consolidated Drum Band (state fife and drum band), and the Pasadena Playhouse (state theater) have all been established via resolutions. The Committee may wish to consider whether legislation is the most appropriate mechanism to provide recognition to any potential symbol?
- Arguments in support. Several organizations write in support of this bill noting the resilience and adaptability of the snake to survive despite a significant loss of habitat. These groups hope that elevating the giant garter snake as a state symbol will call attention to the threatened snake.
- Related legislation. AB 581 (Bennet) of the current legislative session establishes the bigberry manzanita as the official state shrub. AB 581 is pending on the Senate Floor.
AB 666 (Rogers) of the current legislative session establishes Bigfoot as the official state cryptid. AB 666 was held in Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, and Tourism Committee.
AB 1334 (Wallis) of the current legislative session establishes solar energy as the official state energy. AB 1334 is pending on the Senate Governmental Organization Committee.
AB 1797 (Wood), Chapter 667, Statutes of 2024, establishes the Dungeness crab as the official state crustacean.
AB 1850 (Pellerin), Chapter 668, Statutes of 2024, establishes the banana slug (Ariolimax) as the official state slug of California.
AB 2504 (Dixon), Chapter 669, Statutes of 2024, establishes the shell of the black abalone as the official state seashell.
AB 3118 (Wallis) of 2024 would have established solar energy as the official state energy. AB 3118 died in the Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy.
AB 868 (Garcia) of 2021 would have established the date shake as the official state milkshake. AB 868 died in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee.
AB 1769 (Voepel) of 2018 would have established the California Vaquero Horse as the official state horse. AB 1769 died in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee.
SB 73 (Hueso) of 2017 would have established the “San Salvador” as the official state ship of exploration. SB 73 died in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee.
AB 2470 (Nielsen) of 2012 would have established the sculpture in the Norther California Veterans Cemetery as the official state memorial for Vietnam veterans. AB 2470 died in the Assembly Veterans Affairs Committee.
AB 2063 (Huffman) of 2010 would have established the Chinook salmon as the official state anadromous fish. AB 2063 was vetoed by the governor.
SB 624 (Romero) of 2009 would have removed serpentine as the official state rock and lithological emblem. SB 624 died in the Assembly Rules Committee.
SB 1253 (Migden) of 2006 would have established zinfandel as the historic wine of California. SB 1253 was vetoed by the governor.
AB 2636 (House) of 2000 would have established the almond as the official state nut. AB 2636 died in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee.
REGISTERED SUPPORT / OPPOSITION:
Support
California Rice Commission (co-sponsor)
Save the Snakes (co-sponsor)
Defenders of Wildlife
Grassland Water District
Opposition
None on file
Analysis Prepared by: Stephanie Mitchell / W., P., & W. / (916) 319-2096
SENATE RULES COMMITTEE Office of Senate Floor Analyses (916) 651-1520 Fax: (916) 327-4478 | SB 765 |
THIRD READING
Bill No: SB 765
Author: Niello (R)
Introduced: 2/21/25
Vote: 21
SENATE GOVERNMENTAL ORG. COMMITTEE: 15-0, 4/8/25
AYES: Padilla, Valladares, Archuleta, Ashby, Blakespear, Cervantes, Dahle, Hurtado, Jones, Ochoa Bogh, Richardson, Rubio, Smallwood-Cuevas, Wahab, Weber Pierson
SUBJECT: State snake
SOURCE: California Rice Commission & Save The Snakes
DIGEST:
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as California’s official state snake.
ANALYSIS: Existing law establishes the state flag and the California’s myriad official state emblems, including, among other things, the California desert tortoise as the official state reptile, the Pacific leatherback sea turtle as the official state marine reptile, the California red-legged frog as the official state amphibian, and serpentine as the official state rock and lithologic emblem.
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake and includes related legislative findings and declarations, as specified.
Background
Author Statement. According to the author’s office, “the giant garter snake is truly a giant and is the largest species of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length. The giant garter snake is the most aquatic garter snake species and survives in habitat that is characterized by shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. The snake is also found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals for transportation between water bodies. The giant garter snake is a threatened species and its population has declined by more than 90 percent in the past century.”
Additionally, “the primary threats to the snake’s survival are habitat loss and degradation, as well as predation by nonnative species. The giant garter snake was listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and Threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. By naming the Giant Garter Snake as the State Snake of California acknowledges the importance of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California.”
Serpentes. According to Britannica, snakes (suborder Serpentes), are any of more than 3,400 species of reptiles distinguished by their limbless condition and greatly elongated body and tail. Classified with lizards in the order Squamata, snakes represent a lizard that, over the course of evolution, has undergone structural reduction, simplification, and asp-specialization. Notably, all snakes lack external limbs, but not all legless reptiles are snakes. Certain burrowing lizards may have only front or hind limbs or be completely legless. Unlike lizards, snakes lack movable eyelids, which results in a continuous – and often disconcerting – stare.
Nearly every culture since prehistoric times (including various present-day cultures) has worshipped, revered, or feared snakes. Serpent worship is one of the earliest forms of veneration, with some carvings dating to 10,000 BCE. A vast global compendium of superstitions and mythologies have resultantly sprung up. Many stem from the snake’s biological peculiarities: their ability to shed skin is wrapped up together with perceived immortality in lore; their ever-open eyes represent omniscience; their propensity for coyly appearing and disappearing allies the snake with magic and ghosts; and the ability to kill with a single bite engenders fear of any snakelike creature.
A recent study by the American Pet Products Association titled “National Pet Ownership Survey,” notes that approximately 800,000 Americans keep snakes at home as pets. Meanwhile, a 2020 report available on the National Library of Medicine’s website titled “Faster detection of snake and spider phobia: revisited,” reveals that upwards of half of the population experiences some sort of anxiety elicited by snakes. Further, between three and four percent of individuals are estimated to have clinically relevant ophidiophobia (a crippling fear of snakes).
Notably, 2025 is the Lunar Year of the Wood Snake – symbolizing versatility, growth, and creativity. The Lunar Year of the Wood Snake was recognized earlier this Legislative Session by SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) on the Floor of the State Senate.
The Giant Garter Snake. Garter snakes are one of the most widespread snakes in North America, and are a species you might have run into (or from) before. Sometimes mistakenly called a “garden snake,” garter snakes earned their name by resembling the female undergarment, the garter belt. The giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) is one of the largest garter snakes, with the ability to reach a length of over five feet. The giant garter snake was federally recognized as a threatened species in 1993.
Historically, giant garter snakes were found along the edges of large flood basins, freshwater marshes, and tributaries in California’s Central Valley from Butte County in the north to Kern County in the south. Today, their range extends from Butte and Glenn counties in the north to Fresno County in the south, where they are known to live in a variety of agricultural, managed, and natural wetlands. Giant garter snakes inhabit natural wetlands such as marshes, sloughs, ponds, and small lakes and streams. These snakes also live in artificial waterways and agricultural wetlands, like irrigation and drainage canals and rice fields, as well as adjacent uplands. Only about 5-10% of the giant garter snake’s historical wetland habitat acreage remains.
The giant garter snake is brown or olive to black, with an underside that is light brown or grayish. The snakes typically have a yellowish dorsal stripe, a light gold to yellow stripe on each side, and two rows of dark blotches on their sides. It is a large snake with keeled dorsal scales and a head slightly wider than the neck.
Other Snakes for Your Consssideration. This bill presents a classic forked tongue dilemma. Should California name a state snake, and if so, just which snake is most deserving of the honor? When weighing options, the Legislature may wish to contemplate some of California’s other iconic basilisks before deciding which species of snake tips the scales in favor of official state status. Alternatives include the California kingsnake, a non-venomous predator, helping control populations of rodents and even venomous snakes, contributing to natural pest control. Often admired for its adaptive behavior and beneficial role in the ecosystem, it has a positive reputation among ophidiophiles.
The Northern Pacific rattlesnake, also known as the Western rattlesnake, is one of the more iconic rattlesnakes in California, having long been a part of the local folklore and the natural history of the region. Despite its venomous reputation, it plays a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems by regulating prey populations. Its presence in rugged and wild areas can serve as a symbol of California’s natural landscapes and the need to respect and protect them. The California striped whipsnake is known for its quick movements and sleek form, representing agility and resilience in California’s diverse terrains.
The San Francisco garter snake is critically endangered and iconic for its vibrant colors, considered one of America’s most beautiful snakes by the herpetologically inclined. It is estimated that there are only 1,000 to 2,000 adult snakes of the subspecies remaining, identifiable by their fierce blue-green coloring, bordered by stripes of black, red, orange, blue, and green – at times resembling a rainbow.
California’s Official State Emblems. California is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, global influence, and its industrious and vibrant people. Boasting a unique array of official symbols, the state represents its natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural identity through emblems. These symbols serve as reminders for residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the state's distinct identity and the importance of preserving its heritage for future generations. As California continues to evolve and grow, its state emblems are intended to remain steadfast symbols of the state’s past, present, and future.
For example, the golden poppy is codified as the official state flower, representing the state’s vibrant landscapes and wildflower fields. Many people believe that emblem law prohibits cutting or damaging the California poppy because of its official designation. In fact, there is no law specifically protecting the California poppy, but the designation endears a special appreciation of the flower and has perpetuated the myth that no one may pick them. Designated in 1903, the golden poppy symbolizes the beauty of California’s natural environment.
A number of the state’s official emblems lean heavily on California’s Gold Rush history. The official state motto – “Eureka” – is a Greek word that translates to “I have found it.” In the context of California, the motto is closely tied to the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855. Gold discovered at Sutter's Mill in 1848 sparked a massive influx of fortune-seekers who flocked to California to seek wealth and prosperity. Native gold is designated as the official state mineral and mineralogic emblem, while “The Golden State” serves as the official state nickname, and Bodie is established as the official state gold rush ghost town.
Recent additions to the list of official state emblems include the California Golden Chanterelle (state mushroom), the pallid bat (state bat), the banana slug (state slug), the shell of the black abalone (state sea shell), and the Dungeness crab (state crustacean) – all having been added during the 2023-24 Legislative Session.
California is now represented by nearly 50 state symbols, 43 of which are codified by statute in Government Code including: state amphibian, animal, bird, colors, dance, dinosaur, fabric, flower, flag, folk dance, fossil, gemstone, gold rush ghost town, grass, historical society, insect, LGBTQ veterans memorial, lichen, marine fish, marine mammal, marine reptile, military museum, mineral, motto, mushroom, nickname, nuts, prehistoric artifact, reptile, rock, seal, silver rush ghost town, soil, song, sport, tall ship, tartan, tree, and Vietnam veterans memorial.
Almost Official. It is not always smooth slithering for measures seeking official state symbol status. Examples include, AB 868 (E. Garcia, 2021) proposed to establish the date shake as the official state milkshake. That bill was approved by the Assembly but never heard in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee. AB 1769 (Voepel, 2018) would have established the California Vaquero Horse as the official state horse. That bill was never heard in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee.
In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger terminated the possibility of recognizing Zinfandel as “California’s historic wine” contemplated by AB 1253 (Migden, 2006). As introduced, the bill sought to designate that particular varietal as an official state emblem. However, the bill was watered down after much attention and negotiation and instead proposed Zinfandel as historic. Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed the legislation writing, in part, “California wines have inspired authors, artists and Oscar-winning motion pictures. Singling one out for special recognition would be inappropriate.” That bill is yet to be back.
The importance of state emblems in California, as well as in any other state, is their ability to convey the unique identity, values, and history of the region. As such, when proposing new official state emblems, it is crucial to give careful consideration to the emblem's significance to the state and its resonance with both current and future residents. Emblems serve as reminders of the state's heritage and represent the collective consciousness of its people. By recognizing emblems that hold deep meaning and relevance, California can effectively celebrate its past, present, and future, while inspiring residents to appreciate and preserve the state's legacy. It may be important to consider whether, after a certain point, the state’s emblem collection turns from distinctive to distractingly decorative.
Slytherin’ Down a Slippery Slope? Designating a new state symbol can briefly rattle a media response (whether that be negative or positive), but does not always materially accomplish any particular policy goal such as supporting habitat, research, or protections for the identified symbol. Each time a new symbol sparks a burst of attention, it may lead to a sort of “emblem fatigue” as successive designations produce progressively smaller spikes in public interest and can foster a growing frustration from the general public. Exceptions to the emblematic law of diminishing returns include the bald eagle (United States of America), giant panda (China), and Bengal tiger (India) that have seen natural populations rebound after intense, well-funded recovery campaigns and attention. Alternatively, the California Grizzly Bear – the official state animal – went extinct in 1922 when the last known bear was shot in Tulare County.
Further, a February 1, 2024, article in CalMatters titled “A bill for every problem? Why California lawmakers introduce longshots,” cites a 2002 Legislative Analyst’s Office estimate that “each bill cost at least $18,000 to go from introduction to passage: Each bill is given a title and number, goes through analysis by committee staff and is printed out. An updated dollar figure from the legislative analyst was not available, but adjusting for inflation, each bill costs in the neighborhood of $30,000.”
The article goes on to note that, “[e]ven Jerry Brown, who famously vetoed a bill with the message, ‘Not every human problem deserves a law,’ signed a majority of those sent to his desk while he was governor.”
California’s Proposition, 140 approved by the voters in 1990 – among other things – limited the total amount of expenditures allowed by the Legislature. The Legislature may wish to consider at what point establishing additional state symbols reaches a breaking point in a larger cost-benefit analysis. Alternative avenues currently exist that allow for the Legislature to recognize the myriad iconic animals, places, and things that make California a globally recognized cultural driver it is – without the need for creating new statute. Options may include resolutions which are commonly adopted and allow the Legislature to highlight particularly notable animals, plants, places, or items within the state.
Related/Prior Legislation
SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) recognized January 29, 2025, as the beginning of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Wood Snake), as specified.
AB 581 (Bennett, 2025) establishes the bigberry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) as the official state shrub. (Pending referral in the Senate Rules Committee)
AB 666 (Rogers, 2025) establishes Bigfoot as the official state cryptid. (Held in the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, & Tourism Committee without Recommendation)
AB 1334 (Wallis, 2025) establishes solar energy as the official state energy. (Pending in the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee)
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: No Fiscal Com.: No Local: No
SUPPORT: (Verified 4/9/25)
California Rice Commission (Co-source)
Save The Snakes (Co-source)
Defenders of Wildlife
OPPOSITION: (Verified 4/9/25)
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: In support of the bill, the cosponsors write that, “California’s rice industry has a strong reputation for partnering with organizations like Save the Snakes to create and protect habitat for a number of important species, including the giant garter snake. A recently released report by UC Davis entitled A Conservation Footprint for California Rice states, ‘With the draining and loss of much historical wetland habitat, flooded rice now provides critical surrogate habitat for the protected Giant Garter snake.’”
Prepared by: Brian Duke / G.O. / (916) 651-1530
4/9/25 15:50:16
SENATE COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION
Senator Steve Padilla
Chair
2025 - 2026 Regular
Bill No: 765 Hearing Date: 4/8/2025
Author: | |||
Version: | 2/21/2025 Introduced | ||
Urgency: | No | Fiscal: | No |
Consultant: | Brian Duke | ||
SUBJECT: State snake
DIGEST: This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as California’s official state snake.
ANALYSIS:
Existing law establishes the following state emblems:
- “Eureka” as the official State Motto.
- “The Golden State” as the official State Nickname.
- The golden poppy as the official State Flower, and April 6th of each year as California Poppy Day.
- West Coast Swing Dance as the official state dance.
- “I Love You, California,” as the official state song, as specified.
- The California redwood as the official state tree.
- The almond, walnut, pistachio, and pecan as the official state nuts.
- The California desert tortoise as the official state reptile, and the Pacific leatherback sea turtle as the official state marine reptile.
- The California red-legged frog as the official state amphibian.
- The California valley quail as the official bird and avifaunal emblem of the State.
- “The Californian” as the official state tall ship.
- Denim as the official state fabric.
- Blue and gold as the official colors of the State, as specified.
- The official State Tartan as a pattern with green and blue squares, separated by charcoal bands, with gold seams, redwood stripes, and sky blue stripes, created by following a specific thread sequence.
- The California dog-face butterfly as the official State insect.
- Lace lichen as the official state lichen.
- Surfing as the official state sport.
- The California Grizzly Bear as the state animal, as specified.
- Native gold as the official State Mineral and mineralogic emblem.
- Serpentine as the official State Rock and lithologic emblem.
- Benitoite as the official state gemstone.
- The California grey whale as the official state Marine Mammal.
- The garibaldi as the official state marine fish.
- The Augustynolophus morrisi as the official state dinosaur and the saber-toothed cat as the official state fossil.
- The Chipped Stone Bear as the official state prehistoric artifiact.
- The San Joaquin Soil as the official soil of California, as specified.
- Purple needlegrass, or Nassella pulchra, as the official state grass.
- California Golden Chanterelle as the official state mushroom.
- The pallid bat as the official state bat.
- The banana slug as the official state slug.
- The shell of the black abalone as the official state seashell.
- The Dungeness crab as the official state crustacean.
- The LGBTQ Veterans Memorial at the Desert Memorial Park in Cathedral City as the official state LGBTQ veterans memorial.
- The California Historical Society as the official state historical society.
- The California State Military Museum and Resource Center as the official state military museum.
- Bodie as the official state gold rush ghost town.
- Calico as the official state silver rush ghost town.
- The California Vietnam Veterans Memorial as the official state Vietnam veterans war memorial.
This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake and includes related legislative findings and declarations, as specified.
Background
Author Statement. According to the author’s office, “the giant garter snake is truly a giant and is the largest species of all garter snake species. Adult snakes have been documented to reach 64 inches in length. The giant garter snake is the most aquatic garter snake species and survives in habitat that is characterized by shallow, slow-moving streams, ponds, and marshes. The snake is also found in agricultural areas, such as rice fields, where it uses irrigation ditches and canals for transportation between water bodies. The giant garter snake is a threatened species and its population has declined by more than 90 percent in the past century.”
Additionally, “the primary threats to the snake’s survival are habitat loss and degradation, as well as predation by nonnative species. The giant garter snake was listed as threatened under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and Threatened under the Federal Endangered Species Act in 1993. By naming the Giant Garter Snake as the State Snake of California acknowledges the importance of the species in the ecology, agriculture, and water resources of California.”
Serpentes. According to Britannica, snakes (suborder Serpentes), are any of more than 3,400 species of reptiles distinguished by their limbless condition and greatly elongated body and tail. Classified with lizards in the order Squamata, snakes represent a lizard that, over the course of evolution, has undergone structural reduction, simplification, and asp-specialization. Notably, all snakes lack external limbs, but not all legless reptiles are snakes. Certain burrowing lizards may have only front or hind limbs or be completely legless. Unlike lizards, snakes lack movable eyelids, which results in a continuous – and often disconcerting – stare.
Nearly every culture since prehistoric times (including various present-day cultures) has worshipped, revered, or feared snakes. Serpent worship is one of the earliest forms of veneration, with some carvings dating to 10,000 BCE. A vast global compendium of superstitions and mythologies have resultantly sprung up. Many stem from the snake’s biological peculiarities: their ability to shed skin has been coiled together with immortality in lore; their ever-open eyes represent omniscience; their propensity for sudden appearance and disappearance allies the snake with magic and ghosts; and the ability to kill with a single bite engenders fear of any snakelike creature.
A recent study by the American Pet Products Association titled “National Pet Ownership Survey,” notes that approximately 800,000 Americans keep snakes at home as pets. Meanwhile, a 2020 report available on the National Library of Medicine’s website titled “Faster detection of snake and spider phobia: revisited,” reveals that upwards of half of the population experiences some sort of anxiety elicited by snakes. Further, between three and four percent of individuals are estimated to have clinically relevant ophidiophobia (an identified crippling fear of snakes).
Perhaps coincidentally, 2025 is the Lunar Year of the Wood Snake – symbolizing versatility, growth, and creativity. The Lunar Year of the Wood Snake was recognized earlier this Legislative Session by SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) on the Floor of the State Senate. Additionally, existing law establishes the greenish and scaly-appearing serpentine, a metamorphic rock named from the Latin serpentinus meaning “snake-like,” as the official State Rock and lithologic emblem.
The Giant Garter Snake. Garter snakes are one of the most widespread snakes in North America, and are a species you might have run into (or from) before. Sometimes mistakenly called a “garden snake,” garter snakes earned their name by resembling the female undergarment, the garter belt. The giant garter snake is one of the largest garter snakes, with the ability to reach a length of over five feet. The giant garter snake was federally recognized as a threatened species in 1993.
Historically, giant garter snakes were found along the edges of large flood basins, freshwater marshes, and tributaries in California’s Central Valley from Butte County in the north to Kern County in the south. Today, their range extends from Butte and Glenn counties in the north to Fresno County in the south, where they are known to live in a variety of agricultural, managed, and natural wetlands. Giant garter snakes inhabit natural wetlands such as marshes, sloughs, ponds, and small lakes and streams. These snakes also live in artificial waterways and agricultural wetlands, like irrigation and drainage canals and rice fields, as well as adjacent uplands. Only about five to 10 percent of the giant garter snake’s historical wetland habitat acreage remains.
The giant garter snake is brown or olive to black, with an underside that is light brown or grayish. The snakes typically have a yellowish dorsal stripe, a light gold to yellow stripe on each side, and two rows of dark blotches on their sides. It is a large snake with keeled dorsal scales and a head slightly wider than the neck.
Figure 1: https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/species/reptiles/giant_garter_snake/index.html
Other Snakes for Your Consssideration. This bill presents a classic forked road dilemma. Should California name a state snake, and if so, just which snake is most deserving of the honor? When weighing options, the Committee may wish to contemplate some of California’s other iconic basilisks before deciding which species of snake tips the scales in favor of official state status. Alternatives include the California kingsnake, a non-venomous predator, helping control populations of rodents and even venomous snakes, contributing to natural pest control. Often admired for its adaptive behavior and beneficial role in the ecosystem, it has a positive reputation among ophidiophiles.
The Northern Pacific rattlesnake, also known as the Western rattlesnake, is one of the more iconic rattlesnakes in California, having long been a part of the local folklore and the natural history of the region. Despite its venomous reputation, it plays a vital role in maintaining balanced ecosystems by regulating prey populations. Its presence in rugged and wild areas can serve as a symbol of California’s natural landscapes and the need to respect and protect them. The California striped whipsnake is known for its quick movements and sleek form, representing agility and resilience in California’s diverse terrains.
The San Francisco garter snake is critically endangered and iconic for its vibrant colors, considered one of America’s most beautiful snakes by the herpetologically inclined. It is estimated that there are only 1,000 to 2,000 adult snakes of the subspecies remaining, identifiable by their fierce blue-green coloring, bordered by stripes of black, red, orange, blue, and green – at times resembling a rainbow. Additionally, legendary Los Angeles Lakers basketball player Kobe Bryant was nicknamed after the deadly Black Mamba snake, embodying a lethal precision and intensity on the basketball court.
California’s Official State Emblems. California is renowned for its diverse landscapes, rich history, global influence, and its industrious and vibrant people. Boasting a unique array of official symbols, the state represents its natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural identity through emblems. These symbols serve as reminders for residents and visitors alike, emphasizing the state's distinct identity and the importance of preserving its heritage for future generations. As California continues to evolve and grow, its state emblems are intended to remain steadfast symbols of the state’s past, present, and future.
For example, the golden poppy is codified as the official state flower, representing the state’s vibrant landscapes and wildflower fields. Many people believe that emblem law prohibits cutting or damaging the California poppy because of its official designation. In fact, there is no law specifically protecting the California poppy, but the designation endears a special appreciation of the flower and has perpetuated the myth that no one may pick them. Designated in 1903, the golden poppy symbolizes the beauty of California’s natural environment.
A number of the state’s official emblems lean heavily on California’s Gold Rush history. The official state motto – “Eureka” – is a Greek word that translates to “I have found it.” In the context of California, the motto is closely tied to the California Gold Rush of 1848-1855. Gold discovered at Sutter's Mill in 1848 sparked a massive influx of fortune-seekers who flocked to California to seek wealth and prosperity. Native gold is designated as the official state mineral and mineralogic emblem, while “The Golden State” serves as the official state nickname, and Bodie is established as the official state gold rush ghost town.
Recent additions to the list of official state emblems include the California Golden Chanterelle (state mushroom), the pallid bat (state bat), the banana slug (state slug), the shell of the black abalone (state sea shell), and the Dungeness crab (state crustacean) – all having been added during the 2023-24 Legislative Session. California is now represented by nearly 50 state symbols, 43 of which are codified by statute in Government Code including: state amphibian, animal, bat, bird, colors, dance, dinosaur, fabric, flower, flag, folk dance, fossil, gemstone, gold rush ghost town, grass, historical society, insect, LGBTQ veterans memorial, lichen, marine fish, marine mammal, marine reptile, military museum, mineral, motto, mushroom, nickname, nut, prehistoric artifact, reptile, rock, seal, silver rush ghost town, soil, song, sport, tall ship, tartan, tree, and Vietnam veterans memorial.
Almost Official. It is not always smooth slithering for measures seeking official state symbol status. Examples include, AB 868 (E. Garcia, 2021) proposed to establish the date shake as the official state milkshake. That bill was approved by the Assembly but never heard in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee. AB 1769 (Voepel, 2018) would have established the California Vaquero Horse as the official state horse. That bill was never heard in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee. SB 73 (Hueso, 2017) would have established the “San Salvador” as the official state ship of exploration. That bill was never heard in the Senate Governmental Organization Committee.
In 2006, Governor Schwarzenegger terminated the possibility of recognizing Zinfandel as “California’s historic wine” contemplated by AB 1253 (Migden, 2006). As introduced, the bill sought to designate that particular varietal as an official state emblem. However, the bill was watered down after much attention and negotiation and instead proposed Zinfandel as historic. Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed the legislation writing, in part, “California wines have inspired authors, artists and Oscar-winning motion pictures. Singling one out for special recognition would be inappropriate.” That bill is yet to be back.
The importance of state emblems in California, as well as in any other state, is their ability to convey the unique identity, values, and history of the region. As such, when proposing new official state emblems, it is crucial to give careful consideration to the emblem's significance to the state and its resonance with both current and future residents. Emblems serve as reminders of the state's heritage and represent the collective consciousness of its people. By recognizing emblems that hold deep meaning and relevance, California can effectively celebrate its past, present, and future, while inspiring residents to appreciate and preserve the state's legacy. It may be important to consider whether, after a certain point, the state’s emblem collection turns from distinctive to distractingly decorative.
Slytherin’ Down a Slippery Slope? Designating a new state symbol can briefly stir a media response, but does not always materially accomplish any particular policy goal such as supporting habitat, research, or protections for the identified symbol. Each time a new symbol sparks a burst of attention, it may lead to a sort of “emblem fatigue” as successive designations produce progressively smaller spikes in public interest and can foster a growing frustration from the general public. Exceptions to the emblematic law of diminishing returns include the bald eagle (USA), giant panda (China), and Bengal tiger (India) that have seen natural populations rebound after intense, well-funded recovery campaigns and attention. Alternatively, the California Grizzly Bear – the official state animal – went extinct in 1922 when the last known bear was shot in Tulare County.
Further, a February 1, 2024, article in CalMatters titled “A bill for every problem? Why California lawmakers introduce longshots,” cites a 2002 Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) estimate that “each bill cost at least $18,000 to go from introduction to passage: Each bill is given a title and number, goes through analysis by committee staff and is printed out. An updated dollar figure from the legislative analyst was not available, but adjusting for inflation, each bill costs in the neighborhood of $30,000.”
The article goes on to note that, “[e]ven Jerry Brown, who famously vetoed a bill with the message, ‘Not every human problem deserves a law,’ signed a majority of those sent to his desk while he was governor.”
California’s Proposition 140 approved by the voters in 1990, among other things, limited the total amount of expenditures allowed by the Legislature. The Committee may wish to consider at what point establishing additional state symbols reaches a breaking point in a larger cost-benefit analysis. Alternative avenues currently exist that allow for the Legislature to recognize the myriad iconic animals, places, and things that make California a globally recognized cultural driver it is – without the need for creating new statute. Options include Member resolutions which are commonly adopted and allow the Legislature to highlight particularly notable animals, plants, places, or items within the state.
This bill is one of four legislative proposals attempting to designate a novel state emblem this year. In addition to the official state snake: AB 581 (Bennett, 2025) attempts to name the bigberry manzanita as the official state shrub; AB 666 (Rogers, 2025) designates Bigfoot as the official state cryptid; and AB 1334 (Wallis, 2025) establishes solar energy as the official state energy.
Prior/Related Legislation
SR 12 (Wahab, 2025) recognized January 29, 2025, as the beginning of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Wood Snake), as specified.
AB 581 (Bennett, 2025) establishes the bigberry manzanita (Arctostaphylos glauca) as the official state shrub. (Pending referral in the Senate Rules Committee)
AB 666 (Rogers, 2025) establishes Bigfoot as the official state cryptid. (Pending in the Assembly Arts, Entertainment, Sports, & Tourism Committee)
AB 1334 (Wallis, 2025) establishes solar energy as the official state energy. (Pending in the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee)
FISCAL EFFECT: Appropriation: Fiscal Com.: Local:
SUPPORT:
California Rice Commission (Co-source)
Save The Snakes (Co-source)
Defenders of Wildlife
OPPOSITION:
None received
ARGUMENTS IN SUPPORT: In support of the bill, the cosponsors write that, “California’s rice industry has a strong reputation for partnering with organizations like Save the Snakes to create and protect habitat for a number of important species, including the giant garter snake. A recently released report by UC Davis entitled A Conservation Footprint for California Rice states, ‘With the draining and loss of much historical wetland habitat, flooded rice now provides critical surrogate habitat for the protected Giant Garter snake.’”
Discussed in Hearing
1MIN
Senate Floor
3MIN
Senate Floor
11MIN
Senate Standing Committee on Governmental Organization
Bill Author
Bill Co-Author(s):