Assembly Floor
- Chris Ward
Legislator
The Assembly is now in session. Assembly Member Ramos notices the absence of a quorum. Sergeant in arms will prepare the chamber and bring in the absent Members. The Clerk will call the roll.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Addis. Aguiar. Curry. Alanis. Alvarez. Arambula. Baines. Bauer-Kahan. Bennett. Berman. Berner. Bonta. Brian. Calderon. Juan Carillo. Wendy Carrillo. Cervantes. Chin. Connolly. Dahle. Davies Dixon. Essayli. Flora. Mike Fong. Vince Fong. Friedman. Gabriel. Gallagher. Garcia. Gibson. Grayson. Haney. Hart. Holden. Hoover. Irwin. Jackson. Jones-Sawyer. Kalra. Lackey. Lee. Lowe. Lowenthal. Maienschein. Mathis. McCarty. Mckinnor. Muratsuchi. Nguyen. Ortega. Pacheco. Pappin. Jim Patterson. Joe Patterson. Pellerin. Petrie-Norris. Quirk Silva. Ramos. Reyes. Luz Rivas. Robert Rivas. Rodriguez. Rubio. Sanchez. Santiago. Schiavo. Soria. Tang. Valencia. Villapudua. Waldron. Wallace. Ward. Weber. Wicks. Wilson. Wood. Zabur. Mr. Speaker.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Members, a quorum is present and without objection, we will defer the prayer and pledge until later in the session. Reading of the previous day's journal.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Shame of Sacrament on Monday, March 202023. The Assembly met at 01:00 p.m. The Honorable Stephanie Quinn, Assistant Speaker News.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Mr. Flora seconds that the reading of the previous day's journal will be dispensed with. Presentations and petitions there are none. Introductions and references of bills will be deferred. Reports of committees will be deemed read and amendments deemed adopted. Messages from the Governor there are none. Messages from the Senate there are none. Moving to motions and resolutions the absences for the day for legislative business, Assembly Member Holden for personal business, Assembly Member Dahle, Assembly Member Chen, and majority leader Reyes, you are recognized for your procedural motions.
- Eloise Gómez Reyes
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 45.5 to allow Assembly Members Joe Patterson, Rubio, Joan Sawyer and Alvarez to. Speak on an adjournment in memory today without objection.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Such shall be the order.
- Eloise Gómez Reyes
Legislator
I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 118 A to allow Assembly Members Friedman, Bonta and Jones-Sawyer to have guests and photographers on the floor today without objection.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Such shall be the order.
- Eloise Gómez Reyes
Legislator
I request unanimous consent to suspend joint rule 62 A, the file notice requirement to allow the Natural Resources Committee to hear AB 914 Friedman at their hearing. Today, Monday, April 24, without objection.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Such shall be the order.
- Eloise Gómez Reyes
Legislator
I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 56 and joint rule 62 A to allow the Utilities and Energy Committee to notice AB 914 Friedman for their hearing on Wednesday, April 26, pending rereferral. From the Natural Resources Committee without objections.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
That shall be the order.
- Eloise Gómez Reyes
Legislator
Please remove the following items from the consent calendar today. Item 59, AB 386 Nguyen, at the request of the author and item 89, AB 1068, Valencia at the request of Assemblymember Flora, the Clerk will note, pursuant to Assembly Rule 96, I request unanimous consent to rerefer AB 1337 Wicks from the Judiciary Committee to the Appropriations Committee
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Without objection such shall be the order.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Members, we have a number of very important guests with us here today, so we wanted to give some respectful attention to members presenting, beginning with Assemblywoman Bonta. We have a lot standing up, Ms. Bonta, from the rear of the chamber. Please proceed with your guest introductions. All right?
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Members, I am so very excited to welcome some very special guests from my district to the Assembly chamber this afternoon. Joining us today are the 2023 California high school basketball champions, Oakland High School and Oakland Technical High School. On March 1, the boys basketball team from Oakland High School beat Buena Vista High of Ventura, 75 to 52. This victory is the first state championship for the team. Go Wildcats.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Similarly, the Oakland Technical High School girls basketball team beat Santiago High School of Corona 75 to 52. The 2023 victory is the third title that the team brings home. Yes, you heard that right. This is the third consecutive title for the Lady Bulldogs. To put this into perspective, Steph Curry and the Golden State warriors won four titles in seasons, but never three in a row. You just need to understand that.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
And we haven't seen this happen since 1972 to 1974 when the Oakland A's were able to bring the Bay Area home with pulled off three titles in a row. I'm incredibly proud of both the Wildcats and the Lady Bulldogs for such a historic season. I'm sorry. To my colleagues from the 38th and 63rd Assembly District. Sorry, not sorry. Better luck next time. Many of the student athletes will return next season and I am excited to see what you achieve next year.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
No pressure, because supporting and lifting up the achievements of young people in Oakland is important. I want to highlight some of the colleges that our champion seniors will be attending in the fall. Loyola Marymont, the University of Minnesota, Lewis and Clark College, the University of Anchorage, Alaska and Garden State City College junior College. Congratulations to our student athletes. Your determination and hard work is paying off and you all have proven yourselves as leaders both on and off the court. And I want to be clear.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
These students do this for their family members, for their fellow students, for their community members and for Oakland. They do this while they have to endure gun violence, while they have to endure people telling them all the time that they are not good enough. They do this because they rise and because they are strong and they are proud. And they make Oakland proud of who they are and what they've able to do. And they show California and the country what the town is.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
All heart, all spirit, all resilience, all love. I want to have joining us on the floor today are the coaches, captain and co-captain from Oakland High School and Oakland Technical High School. From Oakland High School, we have the Wildcats coach, Orlando Watkins, Money Williams, Tashawn Gamble and Josh Clark. And from Oakland Technical High School, the Lady Bulldogs, we have coach Leroy Hurt, Mari Zamvichian and Nia Hunter, co-captains. The rest of the team, coaches and school administrators are up in the gallery.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Members, please join me and Assembly Member Wicks in giving both of these state champion teams a very warm and congratulatory welcome.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Assembly Member Bennett, you're recognized from your desk on this introduction. Yes.
- Steve Bennett
Legislator
Assembly Member Bonta, I just wanted to say on behalf of all of the Ventura residents, congratulations to the state champions.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Right. And I know we have other Members of the team in our gallery. If you would stand and be recognized as well. And congratulations on your achievements next to Assembly Member Jones-Sawyer. You are recognized from your desk for your guest introduction.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
Thank you. Mr. Speaker. I rise to welcome the 2022 Major League Soccer champions, our Los Angeles football Club, the LAFC. What a year 2022 was for this phenomenal team. They kicked off their fifth season in MLS with back-to-back nationally televised home games from the heart of Los Angeles hosting the Colorado Rapids and the Portland Timbers on two different dates. They followed up with their first El Traffico derby of the season against crosstown rival Galaxy with a win of three to one.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
We love beating up on Carson. And then number 99. Oh yeah and then number 99, Dennis Boyega, added to their successful run by scoring three times against Austin Football Club in their next match. And for us fans, the team kept us interesting by advancing to the quarterfinals of the Konkukov Champions League. After twice defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps in April last of last year, the team hosted the first ever match with the 2022 MLS expansion team, the Charlotte Football Club, on August 13 and then beat them two to zero on November 5th, 2022.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
LAFC ended a successful season with an action packed MLS cup championship game against the Philadelphia Union, a testament to their resilience. LAFC fought neck to neck against the union in both regulation and overtime and beat out the union 30 by scoring on all their penalties kicks. In addition to goalkeeping, John Mccarthy's successful blocks.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
LAFC earned the title thanks to the goals scored by Kellen Acosta, Jesus Morello, Gareth Bale, as well as the penalty kick goals of Dennis Biarga, Ryan Hollingshead and Eli Sanchez, led by first year coach Steve Wow, your names are just as challenging as the team is. Steve Charon Rundelo LAFC has one of the most talented rosters in MLS history, made up of Carlos Vela, Giorgiolo, Chielne and Maxime I should just skip and Maxime Chapot, among other standouts.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
LFC are community leaders for South LA, both on and off the field. Not only have the LAFC foundation partnered with local organizations such as coordinating food drives during the pandemic, but they also helped install food stalls courts at local underserved schools, providing high quality, free programming for students and surrounding neighborhood. I wish to congratulate them on their victorious 2022 season. Their trophy is at the front of our esteemed place.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
As you can see, it's one of the largest trophies you'll ever see in life and thank each player, along with the team's General manager and fellow USC alumni co owner Will Ferrell, for the fire, energy and focus you bring to every game. This extraordinary group of athletes has achieved prominence in the world's greatest game and made us fans, the South LA community, entire City of Los Angeles. Speaker and Members, please join me in congratulating the 2022 MLS champions, the Los Angeles Football Club.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Assembly Member Vince Fong, you are recognized from your desk for your guest introductions.
- Vince Fong
Person
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I would like to introduce and thank Celine Chandler for her work as an intern in my office this past month. She is currently in pharmacy school at the University of the Pacific and was placed in my office on a legislative rotation to the California Pharmacists Association. She has contributed a great lead to my office during this busy Committee season, and I wish her the best of luck as she finishes pharmacy school. Please, Members, join me in thanking her for her work in the Legislature.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Fong. Now, Members, we are going to be moving to today's remembrance ceremony for the Armenian genocide. We will ask our guests and our visitors in the rear of the chamber and in the gallery to please stand for the prayer and the pledge. Today's prayer will be offered by our guest chaplain, the Very Reverend Father Smpad Saboundjian of the Western Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America. Father Saboundjian.
- Rev Saboundjian
Person
In the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, amen. Heavenly Father, we offer You thanks and praise for granting us this day to join our dear friends at the California Armenian Legislative Caucus foundation at the State Capitol to collectively commemorate Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day. As we somberly remember the one and a half million victims who were martyred in 1915 for our fate and nation, we also remember the countless innocent lives taken in similar atrocities throughout history.
- Rev Saboundjian
Person
With our united efforts, unwavering resolve, and strength of our united voices and prayers, we can make justice certain to prevail. Only then can the souls of our martyrs truly rest in peace. We thank our elected officials for faithfully and courageously standing by our side in our common fight for human rights, dignity, and justice for all mankind and for taking this time each year to pay homage to the sacred memory of our martyrs.
- Rev Saboundjian
Person
May you bless them with many years of health and continued success in their meritorious service to the prosperity of this great state we are all proud to call our home. Lord, grant us the vigor to continue our path undeterred and the strength to overcome obstacles and accomplish our ultimate goals. Grant wisdom to world leaders and to us all so that we may all at all times think, speak, and do that which is good and just in Your eyes.
- Rev Saboundjian
Person
Save us from evil thoughts, words, and deeds, and have mercy upon us all. We thank You for your abundant blessings and gifts of love and mercy. May the souls of our faithful departed, through your mercy, rest in peace. Amen.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Before our flag salute, the homenetmen scouts will present the colors. Please present the colors and Assemblywoman Friedman, please lead us in the nation's pledge.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Please stand if you are able, and repeat with me. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you. The color guard is dismissed and you may be seated.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Moving to business on the Daily File, Second Reading. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Bills 1371, 1506, 451, 576, 48, 1620, 1227 with amendments, 976, 1753, 515 with amendments, 316 with amendments, 965 with amendments, and Assembly Bill 1124 with amendments.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
All bills are deemed read and all amendments will be deemed adopted. We are now in Third Reading, and without objection, we will move to Item 29 for the Assembly's commemoration of the 108th anniversary of the Armenian genocide. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
House Resolution 26 by Assembly Member Friedman and others, relative to the Armenian genocide.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Assemblywoman Friedman, you may open on the measure.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members, I am very honored to represent the largest population of Armenian Americans outside of Armenia. Today is a very solemn day for my district and for Armenians around the world. It began on April 24, 1915. For eight long, horrific years, the Armenian nation was subjected to a systematic and premeditated genocide at the hands of the Ottoman Turkish Empire and the Republic of Turkey. These were fathers, mothers, husbands, wives, sisters, brothers, sons and daughters, elderly adults and children.
- Laura Friedman
Person
1.5 million Armenians were lost. Hundreds of thousands of Assyrians, Greeks, and other Christians perished in one of the most atrocious violations of human rights in history, in what was considered to be the very first genocide of the 20th century. 108 years later, we are here on the Assembly floor to remember the lives lost, the hopes, the dreams, the loves lost during this dark chapter of our shared history.
- Laura Friedman
Person
We think also of the lives not lived, of the hole that remains in the soul of the Armenian people, of the symphonies never written, of the children never born, of the cures never found, of the accomplishments never met. We pay our solemn tributes to the victims of these unspeakable crimes against humanity. And let's remember that we are here to renew our eternal vow never to allow genocide to happen on our watch.
- Laura Friedman
Person
As elected leaders, as a legislative body, it's our duty to ensure that our nation and our world always recognize genocides as well as the victims. Denying atrocities or remaining silent only enables the perpetrators and invites the continuing reoccurrence of crimes against humanity. Our modern history is sadly full of examples of the perils of silence.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Less than a decade after the Armenian genocide, as Hitler developed his plans for what was to become the holocaust, he reassured his commanders that they would not face retaliation, he declared, who, after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians. Now we feel that we've come a long way in fighting for recognition and education here in California of all genocides.
- Laura Friedman
Person
And certainly the Armenian community here at home in Los Angeles and across California have led the world in getting country after nation to recognize the Armenian genocide for what it was, a premeditated genocide. But our words are empty if we don't also take the steps when more violence is directed and more hatred is directed at any population, including to Armenians today here at home in the form of hate speech, and overseas in Armenia.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Because even today, Turkey and its ally Azerbaijan, continue to deny the Armenian genocide. In recent weeks, turkish and Aberjani leadership have made hints at erasing Armenia from the world map. So while the Armenian genocide occurred over a century ago, the wounds have not healed, justice has not been served, reparations have not been made, and instead, genocidal acts are occurring today. Since December twelveth, the historically Armenian people of Artsak have been living under a blockade by Azerbaijan.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Backed by Turkey, the region's 120,000 Armenians have been living off rationed food, medicine, electricity, and gas. Farmers who are simply working in their fields are being shot at, their machines are being damaged, all towards a goal of denying the Armenians their source of food and income. A slow and painful genocide. Members, a few years ago, I had the honor of visiting Artsok. I walked those grounds and felt with myself the lifeblood of the Armenian people running through that land.
- Laura Friedman
Person
I stood in the middle of churches that dated back to the fourth century, that had ancient Armenian writings on the wall. Today, those very same churches are being stripped of their cultural identity, stripped of those historic artifacts so valuable to the whole world in a kind of cultural genocide that is occurring on our watch, along with, of course, the humanitarian crisis and the murders that are happening in that region. And it's up to us to stand up and say no.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Just a few weeks ago, this body passed Ajr one, led by my colleague from Pasadena, which condemned the blockade that is occurring right now and urged our federal partners to act. Today, I ask that we renew our efforts to remember the genocide of the past and work to prevent another one from occurring on our watch. As we have each anniversary on this floor, we acknowledge the pain that echoes still today.
- Laura Friedman
Person
We also recognize that whenever one group is marginalized or discriminated against, we all have a duty to speak up and to push back and to fight for justice and equality so that no one will know the pain that our ancestors knew over a century later, we are all standing on their shoulders to build a better community, a better California, and a better world for our children and the generations to come.
- Laura Friedman
Person
With that, I urge you to reaffirm our humanity and our will to stand with the Armenian people and vote I on HR 26. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you. Ms. Friedman and Assemblywoman Rivas, you're recognized at your desk.
- Luz Rivas
Person
Thank you. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Glendale for presenting HR 26 relative to the 108th anniversary of the Armenian genocide. As the chair of the Los Angeles County delegation, I'm proud to stand in support of this resolution and California's Armenian community, many of which live in La County, I stand with them to commemorate the somber event that took the lives of Armenians, Assyrians and Greeks. Words cannot express the suffering that Armenians had to endure for no fault of their own.
- Luz Rivas
Person
It is important for us to reflect on this tragedy that this community experienced. Members, today, Armenians of artsok are suffering under the hand of Azerbaijan. We cannot let history repeat itself, which is why I'm asking you to support HR 26. I stand in solidarity with the Armenian community. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you. Ms. Rivas and Assemblywoman Papan, you're recognized at your desk for remarks. Thank you.
- Diane Papan
Legislator
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of HR 26 as it brings us one step closer to fully realizing the atrocities committed against the Armenian people. And as the only Greek Member of this body whose people suffered from 400 years of Turkish rule, I do so with a lot of passion in my heart. We are here to acknowledge the 1 million people guilty of nothing except belonging to the Armenian nation who were massacred and exterminated.
- Diane Papan
Legislator
Past failures to acknowledge the atrocities have only compounded the grief of remaining survivors and their families. And I love what the priest said here today, and that is that only by recognizing this genocide can we truly allow those that were massacred to rest in peace. The passage of HR 26 will lay the foundation we need to help Armenians in California begin to heal and to grow.
- Diane Papan
Legislator
I will end by quoting former President Barack Obama, who said, peoples and nations grow stronger and build a more just and tolerant future by acknowledging and reckoning with painful elements of the past. I want to thank the author for her tireless efforts on behalf of the Armenian people and your compassion that you've shown along the way, not the least of which has been your remarks in this chamber. I'm so grateful to you, and I ask my colleagues please to join in support. Thank you.
- James Ramos
Legislator
Thank you. Ms. Papan and Samuel Ramos, you're recognized on the measure thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise as the chair of the California Legislative Native American Caucus. I rise in support of HR 26 in the Armenian people. Genocide is not a term to be used lightly. It specifically refers to the state sanctioned attempt to exterminate a group of people and causing serious bodily or mental harm to the Members of that group, and separation of families and preventing births.
- James Ramos
Legislator
We stand united with our Armenian brothers and sisters. Native Americans suffered genocide and atrocities, and we are still here standing in this chamber today that in the light of atrocities and genocide, the Armenian people are still standing here today against the atrocities and genocide inflicted upon them and their people. The Armenian people show the resiliency, the resiliency of their ancestors and the people themselves against the very resistance that tried to wipe them off this earth.
- James Ramos
Legislator
Today, they stand here in these chambers to show the world that they are still here. We stand in unity and support HR 26. Thank you, Mr. Ramos and Assembly Member Zbur, you're recognized at your desk on this measure.
- Rick Chavez Zbur
Legislator
Good morning.
- Rick Chavez Zbur
Legislator
I rise in support of HR 26. I want to thank the author from Glendale. I'm proud to be a co author of this Bill, and I'm proud to represent the community of Little Armenia, which is a part of the 51st Assembly District. Today is about remembering the brutal murder of 1.5 million Armenians, and education about what's happened in the past is the greatest antidote to preventing brutality and genocide in the future.
- Rick Chavez Zbur
Legislator
So, on behalf of the residents of the 51st district, I want to thank the author for her leadership on this, for her compassion for the steps she's taken to educate people about the Armenian genocide and the conditions that people in Artsak are facing now and want to join in requesting an I vote on HR 26. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Zabur and Assembly Member Jim Patterson. You're recognized at your desk on the measure.
- Jim Patterson
Person
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members rise also in strong support of HR 26. Today on this floor, we are all Armenians. We are remembering them not just as those who came from somewhere else. We are remembering them as our friends, our loved ones, our neighbors, people we have grown to appreciate over the generations.
- Jim Patterson
Person
Fresno, California has a large Armenian population, and being mayor of Fresno for eight years, I had the opportunity to sit with so many of my Armenian friends and hear the stories of what happened to their families and their grandparents, their parents. And they came with the diaspora to places across our country. But they found themselves as well, coming to Fresno, California. At first, they were not welcome. In fact, there are property deeds today that still say you can sell your property to anybody. But.
- Jim Patterson
Person
And they list a bunch of folks and Armenians are listed. But resiliency and faith and family and hard work and persistence can pay off. And it certainly did for my Armenian friends. The little known history of Fresno is that much of the City of Fresno today is built upon property owned by Armenians. If you search the top dogs of Fresno State University, you'll find Armenian names replete.
- Jim Patterson
Person
But one of the things in getting to know Armenians is to understand their resilience and how they did not take being a victim to make them act like victims. They stood tall. They stood together. Their faith made them resilient and strong as well. And here they are today, significant leaders in Fresno. I just say you can't get elected to anything in Fresno, California, if you don't love, appreciate and get the support of Armenians.
- Jim Patterson
Person
And that is so easy to do because they believe in the American dream. They believe in freedom and opportunity. They believe in faith and family, and they share that with others. When Vietnam fell and when Laos fell, Central California received a large influx of mongs. Who do you think were one of the most welcoming and caring groups in Fresno, California? When these new arrivals came, it was Armenians and they had a story to tell. And the story was, you're in the right place.
- Jim Patterson
Person
People are going to care for you. Sooner or later. We'll move past all of this. And sure enough, today, Vietnamese, Cambodians, monks are in places of leadership and authority. When I was mayor, we received the first wave. Today, the third generation are leaders, valedictorians, business owners, elected officials. There is a common thread between people who go through these kinds of atrocities. And make no mistake about it, there were atrocities in Vietnam and Laos as well as in Armenia.
- Jim Patterson
Person
There's a shared kinship, and that kinship says, we understand. We know what you went through. We once were those who came, and we now are those who lead and who are prospering. And we want to hang on to your hand to bring you into this very same place. And that's what has happened in Central California and in Fresno. So I rise to say thank you to all of you who are saying, we're not going to forget this.
- Jim Patterson
Person
But I also wanted to rise in appreciation of what the Armenian diaspora in its beginning was, a heartbreak, and it has now turned into something that is heartwarming. That's the good news of all of this. But we will not forget. We will not forgive. And as we ask ourselves, how then should we all live? We need to be the welcoming hand that grasps our Armenian friends.
- Jim Patterson
Person
When new people come in, our midst welcome them not only as those who have come from somewhere else, but those who are in our neighborhood and have become us. And to my Armenian friends here in Fresno and across Central Valley, I am so proud to represent you. You are the best of what it means to be Armenians, what it means to be Californians, and what it means to be Fresnos. We love you. Our hearts break for what you lost. But look at what you have won.
- Jim Patterson
Person
God bless you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Patterson and Assembly Member Gabriel, you're recognized at your desk on the resolution.
- Jesse Gabriel
Legislator
Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of myself and also on behalf of the California Legislative Jewish caucus in support of HR 26. I am very privileged to represent a large and vibrant Armenian American community in the west San Fernando Valley. And I just want to associate myself with the beautiful, beautiful comments from our colleague from Glendale who I think captured so much of this. This is an incredible community.
- Jesse Gabriel
Legislator
And I have seen the challenges firsthand that this community has faced, not just internationally with what's going on in Arza, but actually domestically with churches and schools in my district that have been subject to hate crimes. And if you don't understand history, if you don't understand the history of the Armenian genocide, you might not understand what an incredible community this is and the continuing struggles that this community continues to face. So with that, I would urge all of you to vote I on HR 26.
- Jesse Gabriel
Legislator
And again want to thank the author for bringing this important measure forward.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Gabriel and Senator, Member Gipson, you're recognized on the resolution.
- Mike Gipson
Legislator
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and Members. I also rise on behalf of myself and the legislative, the California Legislative Black Caucus in support of HR 26. I want to begin just to say this from Dr. Martin King, because I think it's appropriate. A man dies when he refused to stand up for those things that are right. A man dies when he refused to stand up for justice. A man dies when he refused to take a stand for that which is true.
- Mike Gipson
Legislator
And so on this floor today, I believe by the words that my colleagues have expressed, California will certainly stand up and be a powerful voice standing in solidarity with my Armenian brothers and sisters, the atrocities that have happened. We say no more. Our colleague, who I remember so vividly, a Republican colleague, his name is Cacho. I remember he invited me when I was first elected to this body to stand on the centennial anniversary of this atrocity that took place in this country.
- Mike Gipson
Legislator
And I remember marching and walking down the streets, elevating. It must have been over 100,000 Armenians with people standing in solidarity to say no more. Not only no more, but we will also never forget. Never forget to stand and raise our voice. Never forget to stand and call truth or speak truth to power. Never again should our brothers stand alone in this country.
- Mike Gipson
Legislator
And so I think how we continue to elevate our voices as well as their voices is to making sure that we, as California, which is a powerful state, making sure that our friends in Washington, DC, to get involved. Because if we don't do this, then we will see these atrocities taking place with another country, with other people, people who are our neighbors, who are our brothers and sisters. And I commend our brothers and sisters who are Armenians for standing in solidarity with all of us.
- Mike Gipson
Legislator
And we stand in solidarity with them as well.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Gibson. And, Members, just so you know, we recognize the noise disturbance from the construction. We're trying to get communications to our workers so that they recognize what's going on here with this solemn ceremony. And we ask again for your forgiveness. Assemblywoman Cervantes, you're recognized on the resolution.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members, today I rise in support of HR 26. On behalf of the Latino Legislative Caucus. Do want to thank our colleague from Glendale for bringing forth this important resolution. Members, unlike in previous years, we find ourselves where this resolution is a place of consensus in recognizing the mass murder and forced migration of the Armenian people between 1915 and 1917 as a genocide.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
Thankfully, all 50 states, the United States Congress, and as of 2021, the President of the United States, have all officially recognized the Armenian genocide. It is only right to do so. The stories of the persecution, rape, killings perpetrated against the Armenian people are harrowing and heartbreaking. Upwards of one and a half million Armenians were murdered during the genocide, and many survivors were nonetheless subjected to systemic deportation placements in concentration camps.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
The genocide was not only an attempt to destroy the Armenian people, but the pursuit of the destruction of Armenian identity in Armenian culture. I know that many of us in this body are proud that the United States is home to the third largest population of the Armenian diaspora. The persistence of the Armenian people throughout the world today in the 21st century is truly a testament of their resilience.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
We are proud to stand on behalf of the Latino caucus in support of HR 26 and respectfully ask for an aye vote.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Cervantes and Assemblywoman Carillo, you're recognized at your desk on the resolution.
- Wendy Carrillo
Person
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. I rise on behalf of myself and on behalf of the California Legislative Women's Caucus in strong support of HR 26. Today we mark the 108th anniversary of the Armenian genocide, a crime against humanity that caused everlasting pain and trauma worldwide. Assembly District 52 includes beautiful communities within the City of Glendale that I share with my colleague and the author of this resolution and is home to a thriving Armenian American diaspora.
- Wendy Carrillo
Person
Between 1915 and 19231.5 million Armenians were subject to a systematic and premeditated genocide by the Ottoman Empire and its successor state, the Republic of Turkey, who attempted to erase the presence of the Armenian people from their historic homelands. The turkish government presently maintains an official policy of denial in the state Legislature. We continue our efforts to ensure that California's history is inclusive of Armenian American history.
- Wendy Carrillo
Person
House Resolution 26 recognizes the attempts to erase the presence of the Armenian people, the loss of lives, and commends the work done by educators and advocates who teach us all about the experiences of the Armenian people. I'd like to offer to those watching remarks that I made last year in person at a commemorative event in Glendale. My remarks derive from a letter from John Adams to his wife, Abigail on May 121780.
- Wendy Carrillo
Person
In this letter, he was raising awareness to our nation's Independence, and he wrote, my dearest beloved, the gardens of Versailles are beautiful, and I wish that I had the time to write them and explain them all to you, but I can't because I must get back to work and I must go study politics and war so that our sons have the right to study mathematics and philosophy, so that their children have the liberty to study art and music.
- Wendy Carrillo
Person
That is the promise of this nation, that no matter where you come from, what you look like, what language you speak, this nation belongs to all of us, not just a few. And it clearly belongs to the American Armenian community, who is just trying to ensure that the rest of us know what they have been through and what brings them to these shores.
- Wendy Carrillo
Person
The Armenian American population and community has created and been a part of so much success in the State of California and across the country. It is important that we see them, that we recognize them, and that we include the Armenian American experience as part of the fabric of this nation. And with that, I respectfully request your aye vote on HR 26. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Carillo. And seeing no other Members wishing to speak on the measure. Assemblywoman Friedman, you may close.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Mr. Speaker, I would like very much to thank all of the Members who spoke today and all of the Members who are standing in solidarity with my community and with the community of Armenian Americans across California. The situation in Armenia and in the independent nation of Artsak is very dire at this moment, and I know that this resolution means a lot to the Armenians living in California. In fact, the situation is so difficult that it changes day to day.
- Laura Friedman
Person
And just yesterday, a checkpoint was erected, cutting off Artsok from aid from the rest of the world. Even the Red Cross is right now unable to cross over to provide aid and supplies into Artsoc, a nation of people that wants nothing more than to live in peace with the right to self determination and self governance, a very American value that we should be standing by.
- Laura Friedman
Person
This resolution today will send a strong message both to memorialize the genocide of the past and to say that we will not stand for a genocide to happen today on our watch. And we send that on behalf of California. That will be heard by the Armenian Americans in California, Armenians living in the Republic of Armenia, and those struggling every single day in Artsak. With that, I would urge an I vote on HR 26. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you. Mr. Freeman, would you like the first roll open for co authors? Very well. Clerk will open the Roll for Co.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Authors on HR 26.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
All those wishes to be a co author, please signify by casting your vote. Clerk will close the roll. There are 74 co authors and without objection, we will move to a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor say aye. All those opposed say nay. The ayes have it. Resolution is adopted. And, Assemblywoman Friedman, you're recognized for your guest introductions.
- Laura Friedman
Person
Members, I'm very proud today that we are joined by a number of guests in the back of chambers and up in the gallery from the Armenian Assembly of America, local, regional and national chapters of the Armenian National Committee of America and the California Armenian Legislative Caucus foundation. Please welcome them along with Belina Ajbadrian, David Gregorkian, Matt Senecarmian, Aram Sarkisian, Kachig Tassian, Nora Havaspian, John Churchkian and Ali Ada Edward and Leela Sahabi. We are very honored to have them in our presence here today.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Friedman. And Members and guests, we will now observe a moment of silence in remembrance of the one and a half million who lost their lives during the Armenian genocide. Thank you. This will conclude our ceremony, Members, we, of course, will have business on the daily file. We'll allow our guests time to continue their greetings and then we'll move on with the daily file.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
We will pass and retain on File Items 14 through 24. Bring us for Ms. Bonta to File Item 25. This is AB 722 for purposes of amendments. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Bill 722 with amendments by Assembly Member Bonta.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Ms. Bonta on the amendments.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. I rise to present amendments to AB 722. These amendments reflect a compromise between Alameda Health Systems and Union of American Physicians and Dentists, which extends a sunset instead of eliminating it. I respectfully request an aye vote.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Bonta. And if there's nobody else wishing to speak on the amendments, without objection, we'll take a voice vote on the amendments. All those say 'aye.' All those opposed say 'nay.' The ayes have it. Amendments are adopted. The bill is out to print and back on file. We will pass and retain on File Items 26 through 27. And Majority Leader Reyes, you're recognized for your motion.
- Eloise Gómez Reyes
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I request unanimous consent to suspend Joint Rule 62a, the file notice requirement to allow the Jobs, Economic Development and the Economy Committee to hear AB 930: Friedman and AB 1044: Gallagher at their hearing tomorrow, April 25th, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 127.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Without objection, such shall be the order. Next by Ms. Cervantes. This is File Item 28: HR 14. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
House Resolution 14 by Assembly Member Cervantes and others, relative to sexual assault.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Assemblywoman Cervantes, you may open on the resolution.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. Today I rise as lead author and chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus supporting House Resolution 14 on behalf of the Women's Caucus for our annual commemoration of Denim Day. We celebrate Denim Day on this last Wednesday of April, which is also Sexual Assault Awareness Month. We honor this month by also wearing teal.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
Every year for decades, we have dressed in jeans to symbolically protest against the Italian Supreme Court case that held that a survivor's manner of dress could be used as evidence of consent in a sexual assault case. We post on social media proclaiming that a survivor's manner of dress should never be used against them when seeking justice.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
But it wasn't until 2021 that this body passed my bill, Assembly Bill 939, finally manifesting the promise of Denim Day by prohibiting the clothing a survivor was wearing from being used as evidence of consent in a criminal sexual assault case in California, to ever have considered whether a survivor's manner of dress as evidence of consent wrongly scrutinizes the actions of the survivor instead of placing the scrutiny where it truly belongs: on the actions of the perpetrator.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
Sexual assault and violence is the most underreported and under prosecuted type of crime. We must make sure that survivors are not subjected to a justice system that revictimizes and retraumatizes them and ensures that our justice system continues to protect them when they seek justice.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
For every 1,000 survivors in the United States, 230 report the sexual assault perpetrated against them. Of these 230 survivors, only 80 have cases that are tried, and less than five, less than five will ever see their persecutors serve time. When we trivialize sexual assault, we uphold stereotypical beliefs that survivors invite these crimes perpetrated against them. An outfit should never provide consent, ever. For several years, I have dedicated myself to ensure that we have trauma-informed policies for sexual assault survivors. My commitment continues to be unwavering.
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
Survivors need trauma-informed policies that do not blame them in the pursuit of justice. We must always consider the power imbalance that exists between a survivor and a perpetrator. We must continue to eliminate harmful policies that enable violence, silence survivors, and reduce access to justice for survivors of sexual violence. May we rise today and every day to ensure that we educate people on the misconceptions that surround sexual assault because there is never an excuse nor an invitation for rape. I would like the first roll be open for coauthors, and for these reasons, respectfully ask for an aye vote on HR 14.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Cervantes, and Assemblywoman Rivas, you're recognized on the measure.
- Luz Rivas
Person
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise on behalf of the Native American Caucus to urge your aye vote for HR 14, which recognizes April 26th as Denim Day, to shout loudly and clearly that there's never an excuse to commit rape or other acts of violence based on gender. These deplorable crimes are committed against all genders, all ages, and all cultural and ethnic groups. We must end the myths, stereotypes, and prejudice that these crimes are invited by dress or behavior.
- Luz Rivas
Person
We will commemorate the missing and murdered victims during the first week of May. The week's commemoration will be highlighted by a candlelight vigil. During that week, the Capitol dome will also be lit in red. Let's end the violence. I urge your aye vote. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Rivas, and I don't see any other Members wishing to speak on the resolution. And Ms. Cervantes, anything further to close?
- Sabrina Cervantes
Legislator
If the first row could be open for coauthors.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Very well. Clerk will open the roll. Members, this is for coauthors on HR 14. If you wish to be a coauthor, please signify by casting your vote. Clerk will close the roll. There are 71 coauthors. Without objection, we'll take a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor say 'aye.' All those opposed say 'nay.' The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Members, it is my understanding that we have a number of Members who wish to take a commemorative photo in awareness of Denim Day. We're going to first ask that the Members of the Legislative Women's Caucus come to the front for a photo who wish to participate. Following that, any other Members who wish to join in for a second photo may do so as well.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
We have six more items on Third Reading today, and I know we want to get to our Committees on time, so we'll resume the Daily File in just a few minutes. All right, Members, we are back on the file, back to business. Going to get here out of here on time. We're going to pass and retain on File Item 30. And Ms. Aguiar-Curry, this is File Item 31: AB 498 for purpose of amendments. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Bill 498 with amendments by Assembly Member Aguiar-Curry.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Ms. Aguiar-Curry, you may open on the amendments.
- Cecilia Aguiar-Curry
Legislator
Good afternoon, Mr. Chairman, colleagues. AB 498 codifies the Tribal-State Compact made between the State of California and the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. These amendments add an urgency clause so that compact can be ratified as soon as possible. I respectfully ask for your aye vote.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Aguiar-Curry, and seeing no Members wishing to discuss the amendments, without objection, we will take a voice vote on the amendments. All those in favor say 'aye.' All those opposed say 'nay.' The ayes have it. Amendments are adopted. Bill is out to print and back on file. Pass and retain on File Item 32. This is File Item 33: AB 954 by Mr. Bryan. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Bill 954 by Assembly Member Bryan, an act relating to juveniles.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Mr. Bryan, you may open on your bill.
- Isaac Bryan
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I rise today to present AB 954, a bill that will ensure that a parent who is diligently following all aspects of their case plan will not be denied reunification services simply because they are unable to pay for a requirement the court has ordered. Today, when a child is removed from a parent's care, the court may order the parent to complete a variety of requirements to assist in rehabilitation before they are reunified with the child.
- Isaac Bryan
Legislator
However, in some places, parents have to bear the cost of these court mandated requirements, which can run for 52 weeks or more and cost well beyond the means of impacted parents. In many cases, parents even complete these requirements, but are denied a certificate of completion because they have outstanding fees. When a parent is refused reunification services or loses their parental rights simply because they cannot afford to provide proof of payment, we are punishing poverty and delaying family reunification.
- Isaac Bryan
Legislator
AB 954 will encourage child welfare systems to support rather than punish parents who are fighting to safely reunify with their children. This bill has no opposition and has received no no votes. I respectfully ask for your aye vote.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Bryan, and seeing no Members wishing to discuss this bill, Clerk will open the roll. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. Clerk will close the roll. Ayes: 59; noes: one. Bill is passed. Pass and retain on File Items 34 and 35, bringing us to File Item 36 by Mr. Rivas. This is AB 587.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Bill 587 by Assembly Member Robert Rivas, an act related to public works.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Assembly Member Rivas, you may open.
- Robert Rivas
Legislator
And thank you, Mr. Speaker. So this legislation seeks to make a small but important clarification in state law regarding access to certified payroll records from public works projects, and specifically, this bill simply clarifies that when a labor compliance entity detects a possible inaccuracy in an electronic certified payroll record that they are entitled to review the hard copy of that record, which is the source material. This legislation does not impose any new reporting requirements on contractors. Respectfully ask for an aye vote. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you Mr. Rivas. Seeing no Members wishing to discuss this bill, Clerk will open the roll. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. Clerk will close the roll. Tally the votes. Ayes: 63; noes: zero. The bill is passed. Next, this is File Item 37: AB 604. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Bill 604 by Assembly Member Lee, an act relating to mobile homes.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
And Assembly Member Lee, you may open.
- Alex Lee
Legislator
Thank you speaker Members, this is a follow up to my Bill, AB 1061, which was signed into law last year. Current law prohibits mobile Home park management from charging tenants for their sub metered wired service beyond charges paid by management directly to the water services provider at a reasonable administrative fee. AB 604 clarifies the existing law to explicitly include all mobile home park residents, including all the same caps on water service charge fees.
- Alex Lee
Legislator
Without these protections, mobile home parks with separate water submeters on each lot can charge residents an additional cost to the amount of water they use each month without explanation. These charges may include nebulous services such as customer charges or service charges that far exceed the charges billed to the park by the serving water utility this is a modest clarification to existing law that clarifies the intent of the Legislature and protects mobile harm residents from being exploited. Ask for your ivo.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you Mr. Lee and seeing no Members wishing to speak on this measure, Clerk will open the roll. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote, Clerk will close the roll. Tally the votes. Ayes 42 noes 12. The Bill is passed. Mr. Lee, did you wish to take up file item 38 as well? Next, this is file item 38. AB 664.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Clerk will read Assembly Bill 664 by Assembly Member Lee inaccurate in the drinking.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Water and Assembly Member Lee, you may open on this measure.
- Alex Lee
Legislator
Thank you speaker Members. AB 664 requires domestic well owners to ensure that tenants of rental properties served solely by their wells have access to safe drinking water. The requirement is triggered only if a well owner declines to participate in a drinking water service. Consolidation or extension of service. Consolidation is a strategy of the State Water Board uses to address drinking water contamination in disadvantaged communities.
- Alex Lee
Legislator
When the client participate, well owners also turn on access to technical assistance and funding to improve their drinking water quality. This Bill ensures that they turn down this assistance. Well owners then assume responsibility for ensuring that tenants have access to safe drinking water. Strictly ask your I vote.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you Mr. Lee. Seeing no Members wishing to speak on this Bill, Clerk will open the roll. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote, Clerk will close the roll. Tally the votes. I 54 noes two. The Bill is passed. Next, file item 39. This is AB 783.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Clerk will read Assembly Bill 783 by Assembly Member Ting and others in accolading to restrooms.
- Jesse Gabriel
Legislator
Assembly Member Ting, you may open on the measure.
- Philip Ting
Person
Thank you Mr. Speaker. AB 73 enforces existing law requiring all single user restrooms be identified as all gender toilet facilities. My Bill AB 1732, passed into law in 2016, required that all single occupancy restrooms and businesses, government buildings and places of public accommodation be available to everyone.
- Philip Ting
Person
Unfortunately, not everyone is complying. As written, AB 783 requires cities to provide written notice to each business license applicant that all single user toilet facilities be designated as all gender. With that, respectfully ask for aye vote.
- Jesse Gabriel
Legislator
Thank you Mr. Ting. And seeing no members wishing to speak on this bill, Clerk will open the roll.
- Jesse Gabriel
Legislator
All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. Clerk will close the roll. Tally the votes. Ayes 58, noes 8. The Bill is passed. Pass and retain on file items 40-47. bringing us to file item 48. This is ACR 63. Clerk will read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Concurrent Resolution 63 by Assembly Member Wood relative to Mosquito Awareness Week.
- Jesse Gabriel
Legislator
And Assembly Member Wood, you may open on the resolution.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Members. Today I rise to present ACR 63, which declares April 16 through the 22nd as Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week in California. The EPA recognizes that mosquito borne diseases are currently among the world's leading causes of illness and death. In addition, the World Health Organization estimates that more than 300 million clinical cases each year are attributable to mosquito borne diseases.
- Jim Wood
Person
Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week is intended to increase the public's knowledge and threat of Zika virus, West Nile virus and other diseases, as well as the activities of the various mosquito vector research and control agencies working to reduce the health threat within California. This public awareness can result in reduced production of mosquitoes on residential, commercial and public lands by responsible parties. And this awareness is essential to moving conversation into action and providing adequate support for existing or additional mosquito and vector control agencies.
- Jim Wood
Person
Supporting the science that keeps our communities safe is a responsibility of elected leadership. And today I ask you join me in declaring Mosquito and West Nile Virus Awareness Week, so that little buzzing sound doesn't have to be there if you take care to get rid of some of the standing water in your area and follow the advice of your local mosquito and vector control districts. And I'd like the roll to be left open for co authors.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Dr. Wood. Seeing no Members wishing to discuss this resolution, Clerk will open the roll for co authors. All those wishing to be a co author on ACR 63, please signify by casting your vote. Clerk will close the roll. There are 68 co authors. Without objection. We'll take a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor say aye. All those opposed say nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Pass and retain on file item 49.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
We have one item on the consent calendar, so we'll be moving to a vote. Does any Member wish to remove that item from the consent calendar? Seeing none, the Clerk will read.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Second day consent calendar.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Bill 971 by Samir Beli in act lane of vehicles.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Clerk will open the roll on the consent calendar. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote on the consent calendar, Clerk will close the roll. Tally the votes. ayes 69. No. Zero. Consent calendar is adopted. Members, at this time our quorum call is not yet lifted. We are moving to adjournments in memory, and I ask that you give respectful attention to those Members granted prior permission to speak on an adjournment in memory, we will move to Assembly Member Joe Patterson. From your desk you're recognized to speak on your end in memory.
- Joe Patterson
Legislator
Thank you Members. Today I rise to adjourn in the memory for a devoted father, grandfather and former Sacramento Kings Vice President Greg Van Dusen. Some of you may know the kings have been in the news lately and most of you know they are in heck of a series against the Golden State warriors. For those of us who live in the area, we are filled with serious pride at this monumental achievement. And it's all due in no small part to Greg Van Dusen.
- Joe Patterson
Legislator
Prior to 1985, the kings were the Kansas City kings. That is until Greg determined they should be here in Sacramento. He became the instrumental force who facilitated and planned the king's move, brokered the deal to bring them to Sacramento, and led the effort to build the then new Arco arena. Without Greg's willful determination, it's doubtful there would be a Sacramento kings. Think about that for just a moment.
- Joe Patterson
Legislator
No kings, no arena, no excitement emanating through the region during the last few weeks and no lighting of the beam. Greg was a local Sacramento boy. He was born here and attended Sacramento High School. He served in the US army as a linguistist in the Army Security Agency and served a 12 month combat tour in Vietnam during the war. He would later recall his military service as a source of great pride and formative period in his life.
- Joe Patterson
Legislator
As a passionate servant of others, Greg worked in professional sports for most of his life. He worked for the Sacramento Gold, Sacramento Salons, Kansas City and the Sacramento Kings and Sacramento surge. He served as the General manager of Arco arena from 1984 to 1989. Greg came to know Christ as an adult and was baptized at the age of 42. Greg was known as always being full of optimism.
- Joe Patterson
Legislator
His son Brett described him as a brilliant mind, a hardworking, compassionate father and grandfather who was always willing to help anyone who asked. Some of Greg's final moments were recorded by his family and they were beautiful. Greg's message to everyone was joyfully sending love, thanks and blessings. Truly, it was Greg that blessed not only his family, but his entire community. I recently got to know him when I was a Member of the Rockland City Council.
- Joe Patterson
Legislator
He would always provide his two cent and help steer me in the right direction. On more than one occasion I didn't know that he was basically a hometown hero. Like a gentleman. He never bragged about it. He just wanted to better his community. Greg Van Dusen was 72. He survived by his three sons, Adam, Brett, and Kyle, his daughters in law, me and Tess his grandchildren, Michael, Carissa, Kendall, Joshua and Jace Van Dusen, his brother, John and sister, Marilyn.
- Joe Patterson
Legislator
It is an honor to have two of his sons, Kyle and Brett, daughter in law Tess and grandkids, Kendall and Jace, in the gallery. I ask that we adjourn in Greg Van Dusen's memory.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Patterson. Members, at this time, quorum call is lifted. We have a few more adjournments in memory on file, so if you wish to leave, we ask that you do so quietly. A reminder that committees will not begin until the adjournment session, which should be shortly. Next, we'll go to Assemblymember Rubio for your adjournment. In memory, you are recognized.
- Blanca Rubio
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members, I respectfully request we adjourn in memory of Robert or Bob Bembo. Born in Pasadena, Texas on September, 1938, Bob Bembo was a hard worker, volunteer, visionary, and a true born leader. Studying ecological history and planning to become a teacher. Bob ended up serving in the army and deploying to Europe, where he met his wife, Ria. Together they had a daughter, Helen, son in law Troy, and a grandson, Xander, all residing in San Diego.
- Blanca Rubio
Legislator
Robert moved to Baldwin park in 1961 and spent over 40 years living as an advocate for the community. He wanted to see the community thrive and give opportunities to all who live there. He created a pathway for job training and provided residents with the opportunities to obtain their high school diplomas. He encouraged families on the importance of education and job training.
- Blanca Rubio
Legislator
He organized a babysitting service during the day so parents could learn a trade, study for their diploma, or learn English without having to worry about babysitting. In addition to developing these numerous programs, Robert recognized the importance of music and theater arts to the community and facilitated the building of the Performing Arts Center, a community landmark. Bob Bembo was a friend, advocate, and a mentor to many people. He truly cared about the citizens of Baldwin park and the community as a whole. As such, I respectfully ask that we adjourn in memory of Robert Bembo. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Ms. Rubio and Assembly Member Jones Sawyer. You're recognized at your desk for your adjournment in memory.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to honor the memory of former mayor Los Angeles Mayor Richard J. Reardon, who passed last Wednesday. My former Boss and mentor. To me and so many others, Mayor Reardon left behind a legacy of tenacity and dedication to public service. Richard Reardon was an East Coast native who graduated from Princeton University before serving in the United States army during the Korean War. After serving, he attended University of Michigan law, where he graduated first in his class.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
Reardon moved to Southern California to begin a family and gradually established himself in Los Angeles as a successful investor and venture capitalist. It was during this prosperous time in his life that a friend and colleague convinced him to run for mayor. When Reardon entered the office in 1993, Los Angeles was struggling with steadily increasing crime rates and was still recovering from the damages incurred during the Rodney King riots.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
Reardon won the election with the claim that he was tough enough to turn LA around, but those who knew him know that statement couldn't be further from the truth. Mayor Reardon's love for Los Angeles and his passion for its people showed in everything he did. After the Northridge earthquake in 1994, Reardon was the first person to respond and began coordinating emergency services. He constructed the neighborhood city halls to increase access to city services and expedite the arduous bureaucratic process which he hated.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
And he created a neighborhood council system to increase civic engagement and amplify the voices of Angelinos and city government. Mayor ridden led by uplifting others, he handpicked me from a spot on the emergency response team and gave me an opportunity when others wouldn't. He didn't care that I was a long, loyal Democrat. He hired people based on how well they would do their job, not how often they would agree with him. Mayor Reardon didn't always do what was politically advantageous or correct.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
He led with heart and passion. As city employees, we would never tell him something was impossible because that would guarantee he would tell us to find a way. In his eyes, he could do anything and everything. He is in every part of La City government, through his alumni and his brush strokes can be seen in every neighborhood Members. Mayor Reardon's impact on Los Angeles is impossible to quantify, but I can say with absolute certainty that the city is better because of him.
- Reginald Byron Jones-Sawyer
Person
I respectfully ask that we adjourn in his memory. Thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Jones Sawyer and Senator Alvarez, you're recognized at your desk for your adjournment. In memory.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to adjourn in memory of Daniel Hernandez. Danielle was a Director of community relations at Sunny Cedro Health and for almost 45 years had experience in our community developing a wide variety of outreach, awareness and programs for the corporate and nonprofit sector. Daniel's abilities and proficiencies included grassroots outreach, issue advocacy, political strategy, economic and community development, public relations, marketing and advertising, media relations and special event management.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
For many years, Daniel supported the National City chamber as a board Member and volunteer. He served as chair of the largest mariachi festival and competition in San Diego County organized by the National City Chamber of Commerce. More recently, Danielle had a community garden named after him by Project New Village in southeast San Diego for his volunteer work as a board Member in creating equitable access to high quality and affordable healthy foods and under resourced communities.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
I remember Daniel for many years back as he spent time with a lot of the young people of our community mentoring, working with us, whether it was with the Cesar Chavez Commemorative Committee, breakfast, festivals, parades, Daniel was always there mentoring all of us to make sure we knew who to talk to and how to get things done. His vast relationships were useful to all of the work that many of us did in our community throughout San Diego County and his home County of Imperial county.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
Because of his experience, his dedication, and all of the positive impact that he made, he was a true community champion and his contributions to sanicido health, his last employer, and everyone else who he worked with will forever be remembered as his favorite quote says, the end result has always been the credit. Thank you for your attention to this adjournment in memory. Campazes cance Daniel Hernandez thank you.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Alvarez. Members, please bring the names to the desk to be printed in the journal. All requests to adjourn in the memory will be deemed read and printed in the journal. At this time, there's a request for a vote change and. Assemblywoman Nguyen
- Stephanie Nguyen
Legislator
Sir, I would like to change my vote on AB 604 from an aye vote to a not voting vote change. .
- Reading Clerk
Person
Assembly Member Nguyen. Assembly Bill 604 I to not voting.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Moving to announcements. Our Committee hearings are as follows. Transportation meets upon adjournment in memory at swing space, room 1100. Our Revenue and Taxation Committee meets upon adjournment in session and capital room 126. The Natural Resources Committee meets upon adjournment in session in Capital Room 447. The budget Subcommitee five on public safety meets upon adjournment in session in Capital, Room 437, and the Banking and Finance Committee meets at 03:30 p.m. In Capital Room 444. Our session schedule is as follows.
- Chris Ward
Legislator
Tuesday, April 25 check in session Wednesday, April 26 session Thursday, April 27 floor session at 09:00 a.m. All other items will be passed and retained. All motions shall be continued, and seeing and hearing no further business, I'm ready to entertain a motion to adjourn moves and Mr. Gallagher seconds that this house stands adjourned until Thursday, April 27 at 09:00 a.m. We are adjourned.