Assembly Floor
- Jim Wood
Person
The Assembly is now in session. Members, please come to the floor so we can take our panoramic photo. I'm behind the camera here, just so you know. Assembly Member Aguiar Curry notices the absence of a quorum. The sergeant in arms will prepare the chambers and bring in the absent Members. The Clerk will call the roll
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll Call]
- Jim Wood
Person
Members, please come to the floor so we can take our photograph. There's a lot of empty desks here. Please come to the floor so we. Can take our photograph and then move on to our regular business. Thank you, Members. We're waiting on about four or five Members, so if you're one of those four or five Members who hasn't made your way to the floor, please come. On down so we can move on, get our photo taken, and conduct the business of the house. So if you're out there and please. Come, you're holding up 74 other people. Please take your seats. Members, please take your seats so we. Can try to move on. We have two Members missing. I don't want to call them out. Because we don't know where they are. But I'd really like, for the sake. Of everybody else, we'd like to get started here. So please take your seats. Please remove all items from your desks.
- Jim Wood
Person
Okay? Members, can I get your attention, please? So, items off of your desks, I see a couple of coffee cups over here. I see a phone over there. So everything off your desks, please. I'm acting like the photographer here, but I'm not. But trying to save him some grief. Okay, we are going to just get your attention, please. I'm going to walk through what we're going to do here. We're going to be taking three photographs today, each from a different angle.
- Jim Wood
Person
The first is the panoramic showing all of you seated at your desks, or all of you that are here anyway. And the next photo will be taken from the center aisle and then one from the gallery as well. So the final photo will be taken from the gallery. We'll be asking you to face forward. So I just thank you for your patience, everybody. I'm going to step down here now and I'm going to turn this over to our photographer.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
It. Okay, let's do this. Hope everyone had a nice weekend. Okay, looking good. Arch is a little bit to the right. All right, Member Haney? Thank you. Thank you. Member Jackson. A little bit. Little bit to the left. Thank you, Mr. Hoover. Hoover. Hoover. And the red. Yeah. And you search just a little bit to your left. All right, we're almost ready to do this. I appreciate your patience, my honor, to be a portrait photographer today. So we're going to do this panorama.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
I'm going to go clockwise and I'll give you all my attention. And after this, I'm going to break down some equipment. I'm going to get ready for the center shot down the aisle. So give me about five minutes for that one and then I'll do. I'll finish up my assignment here with the picture from the gallery. So I appreciate your patience. All right, nice and quiet. All right, take a nice deep breath. Want to check your jackets a little bit close to your desk.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
And one more little correction here. Rebound just a little bit to the left. Rebound, yeah. A little bit to the left. Rebound, yeah. Right, Wicks. Just a little bit over. Wick. Just a little bit this way. That's it. Perfect. That's good. All right. I appreciate your patience. Okay, thank you. Thank you so much. All right, here we go. Let me do a test shot. I appreciate it. As long as I'm in your General. All right, thank you for that. Ready, set.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
Nice deep breath in 32 and 1. Got it. All right, we got two more of those. Ready, set. Thank you so much. Perfect. Thank you. Ready, set. And. Got it. All right over here. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Thank you, thank you, thank you. All right, ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. I like what you're doing. Thank you. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Perfect. Taking the smiles, making it easy on me. All right, ready, set, and. Got it. You know what?
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
Third back, I had this new apple vision, I'd be able to do this. All right, here we go. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. All right, last one. Three, 2 and 1. So we'll do one pan down. Just like that. Looking good. All right. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Perfect. All right, ready321. Last one. Try one. Nice and relaxed. One. Hold your hand. All right. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Got it. Three, 2 and 1.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
Thank you for that. zero, these are going to be fabulous. All right, ready, set. All right, big smile. Thank you for your patience. Thank you. Set. Three, 2 and 1. Got it. All right32 and 1. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Almost there. Ready, set. Everyone to back. I'm looking at you. All right32 and 1. Got you. Maybe a little bit over. Thank you. All right. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Two more. Ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Appreciate the smile.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
Yes, thank you for that. Great jacket. Just a little bit to your right. The micro adjustments make a big difference. I appreciate it. Ready, set. All right, two more of these. Ready12. Take a deep breath and we got one. Ready, set. All right, ready, set. Three, 2 and 1. Go. Keep it going. All right32 and last one of these. Ready, set. And just so I got on my field of view cover, let me do one more over here. Ready, set. Three, two and last one. Appreciate it. So I'm going to get ready for this cover shot. So do your thing and we'll come back in two minutes. Thank you.
- Jim Wood
Person
Okay, Members, could we find our way back to our seats? Those who have wandered off, please come back. So we need. We need. Mr. Speaker. zero, I'm sorry. And once again, please remove everything from your desk, the coffee cups. Thank you. Okay, folks, let's give our photographer our complete attention, please.
- Jim Wood
Person
If you all could just take your seats and then face forward. We have one last shot. Have a seat, gentlemen. Have a seat and then face forward. Looking at us, please. It okay, if you could hang on. Hang on. If you could just give the photographer your attention, we'll be done in just a second. Okay, thank you. Thank you very much, Members. Okay, Members, we're going to wait just a second.
- Jim Wood
Person
I think we'll have some guests joining us before we start, so just give us like 1 minute. Well, in the interest of time, we'll just go ahead and get started. Members, thank you. Hang on a second. We thought we were going to start. Okay, Members, a quorum is present. We ask our guests and visitors in the rear of the chamber and in the gallery to please stand for the prayer in the flag salute. Today's prayer will be offered by our Assembly chaplain, Imam Yasser Khan.
- Mohammad Khan
Person
In the name of God, the most gracious, the most merciful, almighty God. As we gather in this Assembly, we seek your guidance and blessings. Grant us the wisdom to navigate complexities, the empathy to understand diverse perspectives, and the courage to make decisions for the common good. May our discussions be marked by civility, our debates by respect. And our actions by integrity. Help us to be mindful of those we serve and the impact of our choices on all Californians. In your light, may we find clarity. In your grace, may we find strength, and in your love, may we find unity. Amen.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, sir. Our pledge will be led by Assembly Member Ortega. Assembly Member Ortega.
- Liz Ortega
Legislator
Members, please lead me in the pledge. I pledge allegiance to the. Republic under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
- Jim Wood
Person
Reading of the previous day's journal,
- Committee Secretary
Person
Assembly Chamber Sacramento Friday, January 122024.
- Jim Wood
Person
Moves Mr. Gallagher seconds that the reading of the previous day's journal be dispensed with. Presentations and petitions, there are none. Introductions and reference 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 resolutions and motions and resolutions. The absences for the day will be deemed read and printed in the journal Procedural Motions Madam Majority Leader Aguiar Curry, you are recognized for your procedural motions.
- Cecilia Aguiar-Curry
Legislator
Good morning and good afternoon. I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 45.5 to allow Assembly Members Haney, Alvarez, Quilt, Serva, Bonta, and Ortega to speak on a German in memory today.
- Jim Wood
Person
Without objection. Such shall be the order.
- Cecilia Aguiar-Curry
Legislator
I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 1118 a to allow Speaker Reevis, Assembly Members Essayli, Pellerin, and Alvarez to have guests on the floor today.
- Jim Wood
Person
Without objection, such shall be the order.
- Cecilia Aguiar-Curry
Legislator
Pursuant to Assembly Rule 98, I request unanimous consent to strike nine vetoes from the file at the request of the authors. The list of the bills is at the desk. I ask that the Clerk read the bills to be stricken.
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Vetoes Stricken]
- Jim Wood
Person
Without objection, the bills are stricken. Moving on to guest introductions and announcements, please. Members, please join me in congratulating Assembly Member Quirk Silva, who at 09:52 p.m. On Wednesday, February 7, became a first time grandmother to baby Harrison Hannicky. Congratulations, Assembly Member of Essayli. You are recognized for your guest introductions.
- Bill Essayli
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to introduce and recognize one of my constituents, Michael Gamboji, his sister Christina and Don Bonet, for their work with the Calangiocarcinoma Foundation. Christina and Don both have calangiocarcinoma, also known as bile duct cancer, a rare disease that forms in the body's bile ducts and afflicts roughly 10,000 Americans a year. It's often undiagnosed until after the cancer has spread throughout the body, making it very difficult to treat.
- Bill Essayli
Legislator
Michael, Christina and Don are here today to raise awareness ahead of World Colonio Carcinoma Day. On February 15, Michael worked with my office to draft our resolution, ACR 138, which will officially recognize this important day and the search for better diagnostic tools and hopefully a cure. I thank them for their work and hope you'll join me in welcoming them Tto the state capitol.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assembly Member Essayli. Welcome, Assembly Member Pellerin. You are recognized for your guest introduction.
- Gail Pellerin
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I am honored to introduce my friend and mentor, Les Francis. Les is a remarkable leader, communicator, and visionary. From serving in the Carter Administration to being a communications and public affairs consultant. Les is an incredible change maker in our golden state. In my book, less truly is more. Thank you so much for being here today.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you. Assembly Member Pellerin. Assembly Member Wilson, you are recognized for your guest introductions.
- Lori Wilson
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Colleagues, this morning, the California Legislative Black Caucus had the opportunity to honor a number of black owned businesses from across the state in collaboration with our amazing partner, the California Black Chamber of Commerce. Joining us in the gallery today is Mr. J. King, the President of the California Black Chamber of Commerce, as well as the esteemed honorees from this morning's black business brunch. Please join me in welcoming, acknowledging and celebrating their presence with us today. Thank you. Please stand.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblyman Member Wilson. And welcome to your guests. Thank you for being here.
- Jim Wood
Person
You okay? Moving to business on the daily file. Governor's vetoes: file items one through 10. Please pass and retain on file items one through 10. Reconsiderations: file items 11 and 12. All items shall be continued. Assembly third reading: file items 13 and 14. Pass and retain file item 15 by Assemblymember Low. The Clerk will read .
- Reading Clerk
Person
House Resolution 67 by Assemblymember Low and others relative to the Lunar New Year.
- Stephanie Nguyen
Legislator
The more kids get envelopes, the more fortune, wealth, good luck, health is received on their end as well too. And so one of the things I also like to know because many people came up to me and asked, "Where do I get my red envelope or when am I going to get mine?" If you're married, you are giving out the red envelopes, but if you're not married, you're receiving lots of red envelopes. So take that how you want it: should you get married or not?
- Jim Wood
Person
Assemblymember Low, you are recognized.
- Evan Low
Person
Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker and colleagues. It is a beautiful time to celebrate the Lunar New Year. This is the auspicious year of the dragon. So, if any of our colleagues have friends and or families that are looking to expand their families, this is a very good year to have a child in the year of the dragon. [Forgein Language] Did you know that California was the first state to make the Lunar Year an official state holiday?
- Evan Low
Person
And this was in direct response to stopping Asian hate. Many of you have been in these chambers and were in the chambers during this period of time, and we thank you for your solidarity and recognizing an important community in the state of California. But not just in the state of California, Colorado has also followed suit in making the Lunar New Year an official state holiday, as well as New York -
- Evan Low
Person
- and the State of Washington also has pending legislation to recognize Lunar New Year as an official state holiday. So we thank you very much for your engagement with you. Also, today in your offices is a gift on behalf of the Asian Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus. Mr. Speaker, a kind permission to... - this is a money plant, and this helps to demonstrate the prosperity of this beautiful year. Happy Lunar New Year to each and every one of you.
- Evan Low
Person
I hope you'll have an opportunity to celebrate in your local communities as well. With the respect I ask for your support of HR 67.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Mr. Low. Assemblymember Nguyen, you are recognized.
- Stephanie Nguyen
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker; I rise on behalf of the Women's Legislative Caucus and as a Vietnamese American as well. I am wearing what you call a traditional Vietnamese cultural outfit, which is called "Ao Dai". It translates to long dress. Throughout the years, it has changed a bit, but this right here is the actual traditional Vietnamese dress. Mr. Speaker, without objection, I'd like to share some props with our members. Folks, for so many years, everybody would say, Happy Chinese New Year.
- Stephanie Nguyen
Legislator
And as a Vietnamese American, I always looked at that and thought, I'm Vietnamese American. I grew up knowing it to be Tết, and as I got older, I realized that it wasn't just the Chinese Americans and the Vietnamese Americans that celebrated the Lunar New Year, but also our Korean Americans and our Mien Americans.
- Stephanie Nguyen
Legislator
And so I thought I'd bring some props so that you can also understand, so that if you run into a community that is Korean American or Miaon American or Vietnamese American, that you can also say happy Lunar New Year to them as well too. One of the things that you've always seen is these red envelopes. And in the red envelopes, you would have money in there. And the money signifies luck, fortune. The more you give out, the more fortune comes into you.
- Stephanie Nguyen
Legislator
Those random envelopes do come in handy in the Korean community. These pouches here are also filled with candy and kids for Lunar New Year as well too. Last but not least, in the Mien community, this is a crocheted Lu, but typically it's a boiled red egg, hard-boiled red egg. It's dyed red, and it's tied around a little string. And this is also meant to be able to bring good fortune. As my colleague mentioned earlier, it is the year of the dragon -
- Stephanie Nguyen
Legislator
- and if you are a dragon, you are all about resilience, you are all about confidence. And this is your lucky year. On behalf of the Women's Legislative Caucus, on behalf of our API community, Chúc Mừng Năm Mới, Happy Lunar New Year, everybody. Thank you.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblymember Nguyen. Assemblymember Bonta, you are recognized.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, I rise in support of HR 67, a resolution honoring and celebrating the Lunar New Year. Lunar New Year holds a special place in the hearts of millions across the globe. It's a time of immense joy, deep-rooted traditions, and a profound cultural significance in many cultures. This occasion is celebrated over 16 days, filled with vibrant festivities, reunions with loved ones, and the sharing of blessings.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
I'm sure many of us, as we return back to our district, will be celebrating alongside so many. And as we embark on the year of the dragon in the zodiac calendar, we are reminded of the powerful symbolism it carries. The dragon represents honor, strength, luck, and success: qualities that resonate deeply with our aspirations for this legislative session ahead. Just as the dragon soars fearlessly through the skies, let us approach our duties with unwavering determination and courage in the spirit of solidarity.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Let us draw inspiration from the spirit of Lunar New Year to overcome challenges, foster unity, and strive for a brighter future for all Californians. I respectfully join the assembly member from Silicon Valley in asking for your aye vote on HR 67.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblymember Bonta. Assemblymember Wilson, you are recognized.
- Lori Wilson
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker; on behalf of the California Legislative Black Caucus, I am deeply honored to stand as chair to express our wholehearted support for the Lunar New Year and HR 67. This cherished holiday holds immense cultural and traditional significance for the Chinese community, and as my colleague from Sacramento noted, there are so many more communities.
- Lori Wilson
Legislator
Lunar New Year is a time for families to come together, savor traditional delicacies, exchange vibrant red envelopes filled with good fortune, and engage in the age-old tradition of setting off fireworks and firecrackers to ward off negativity. This year, we celebrate the Year of the Dragon. We commemorate the values of courage, passion, and confidence that this auspicious symbol embodies.
- Lori Wilson
Legislator
I was born in the year of the dragon, so it is a true privilege to rise on behalf of our black caucus to demonstrate our solidarity with this joyous and profoundly meaningful occasion. Thank you.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblymember Wilson. Assemblymember Pacheco, you are recognized.
- Blanca Pacheco
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today, I rise on behalf of the California Latino Legislative Caucus to support House Resolution 67. I also want to thank our colleague from Silicon Valley for authoring this resolution. For many AAPI communities celebrating the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Dragon is a time of gathering with friends, family, and loved ones in the hope of a new year of strength, wisdom, and good fortune.
- Blanca Pacheco
Legislator
California is home more than 6.0 million AAPI, who make up nearly 16% of our nation's population, and home to more Asian and Latinos than any other state in the US, at least 250,000 of them who live in Los Angeles County, the solidarity of the Latino and Asian communities between people representing both geographic and cultural experiences led to the creation of one of our country's civil rights educational landmarks.
- Blanca Pacheco
Legislator
In the landmark 1974 case, Lau versus Nichols, the Supreme Court ruled that public schools must provide a meaningful education to non-English speakers based on the Civil Rights Act of 1965; this lawsuit was initiated by non-English speaking families of Chinese descent whose children were enrolled in the San Francisco public school system and taught in English only environments.
- Blanca Pacheco
Legislator
The tremendous courage of these parents to challenge the educational system and advocate for their children's right to an education paved the way for the Equal Educational Opportunities Act and an increase in funding for the Bilingual Education Act, which benefited English learners of all backgrounds, including Latinos. The use of anti-Asian hate crime makes it even more important to come together and acknowledge the intersection of Asian and Latino communities to highlight shared experiences as immigrants and the power of allyship and cultural celebrations.
- Blanca Pacheco
Legislator
We have a responsibility to not only work in solidarity with our Asian brothers and sisters but also lift up and shape the narrative that Latinos are also represented in that community. Lunar New Year is a time to bid farewell to the troubles of the past and welcome good fortune and prosperity. Although the Lunar New Year is not a federal public holiday, we honor and celebrate it here in California -
- Blanca Pacheco
Legislator
- as an official state holiday. The Latino Caucus honors the rich cultural heritage and diversity that Asian Americans contribute to California. This celebration provides a unique opportunity for all Californians to immerse themselves in the customs and traditions of this vibrant community, fostering a greater appreciation and understanding of their significance. We join you in the spirit of unity and harmony that the Lunar New Year embodies. Thank you, colleagues, I respectfully ask for your aye vote to house Resolution 67.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblymember Pacheco. Assemblymember Haney, you are recognized.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members; I rise today on behalf of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus to recognize the celebration of the Lunar New Year and wish everyone a happy year of the dragon. The Jewish caucus is proud to celebrate with communities and caucuses of all faiths and backgrounds and to participate in the longstanding cultural traditions of our Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Asian and Pacific Islander American history has long been a part of the tapestry of Jewish history.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
The Jewish and Asian Pacific Islander American communities have a rich history of solidarity, support, and shared values, including here in California. In 1885, a Jewish immigrant in San Francisco named Sigmund Danielitz spoke at what was to become the California Labor Federation, calling for tolerance and respect toward the Chinese community and sparked a mobilization for both communities to recognize their shared adversity and display open and active solidarity with each other.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
That legacy continues today, and we are motivated by the partnerships between our communities who continue to stand up for each other and build bridges through shared ideals, particularly at a time of rising anti-Asian hate and rising antisemitism. On Lunar New Year, the custom is to wish a happy and healthy new year. As we enter the year of the dragon, we offer our sincere wishes that the symbols of this year, strength, luck, and wisdom, will be found in abundance throughout the year.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
I also want to take a moment of personal privilege and also say, as the representative of a very large API community, including the largest and oldest Chinatown, we celebrate this year's lunar new year with pride. We host the largest Lunar New Year parade in the country, which will be on February 20 and runs through the heart of San Francisco and my district, and I welcome all of you to join us for that parade.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
And I want to thank my colleague from Silicon Valley for bringing this forward and also for his leadership in making sure that we recognize this holiday this year and every year to come. With that, on the behalf of the Jewish caucus, I respectfully urge your aye vote for HR 67.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Mr. Haney. Assembly Member Low, would you like to close? All debate having ceased. Assembly Member Low, would you like to close? Okay. Would you like the first roll open for co-authors? Ms. Low? Yes. Okay. All right. All debate having ceased, the clerk will open the roll for co-authors. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote for co-authors. Members for co-authors? Clerk will close the roll.
- Jim Wood
Person
There are 68 co-authors added without objection. We'll now take a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor say aye. Opposed say no. The ayes have it, and the resolution is adopted. Senator Low, did you have a further announcement? I think you did. I feel richer from your earlier announcement with the money tree, but is there additional? Okay. I feel even richer now. Thank you. Thank you. Assembly Member Low.
- Jim Wood
Person
Moving on to Senate third reading file item number 16, done by Assemblymember Calderon. SB 263. The Clerk will read.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senate Bill 263 by Senator Dodd, in accolade to insurance.
- Jim Wood
Person
Assemblymember Calderon, you are recognized.
- Lisa Calderon
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise to present Senate Bill 263 on behalf of Senator Dodd. This Bill strengthens consumer protections governing the sales of annuity products in the state by adopting a California-specific version of the 2020 National Association of Insurance Commissioners Model Regulation. SB 263 meets and exceeds the model regulation's minimum requirements and ensures annuity sales are not subject to dual regulation by federal and state law.
- Lisa Calderon
Legislator
This Bill is sponsored by the California Department of Insurance and is a result of extensive negotiations between the Department and the insurance industry. SB 263 has received no no votes thus far, and I respectfully ask for an aye vote.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblymember Calderon. All debate having ceased, the 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 and tally the votes. Aye, 66 no zero measure passes. Moving back to introductions, Dr. Jackson, you have guests to introduce to us.
- Corey Jackson
Legislator
Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor to be able to have some young people up from my district to give them an opportunity, something that I didn't even have an opportunity to do when I was younger, which is to come here to see their state capitol.
- Corey Jackson
Legislator
Members, I would ask that you please acknowledge students from the San Jacinto Valley Academy, along with their Director, Phillip Ayala, who happens to also to be mayor of the City of San Jacinto, and school board member Nalisha Burnett. Members, let's welcome our young people here to the Capitol.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Dr. Jackson, and welcome to your guests today. So before we move on to the next item, just to note, today is a very special day. Today is a very special birthday. February 12, 1809. The birth of Abraham Lincoln, who presides over us here today, would have been his 225th birthday. No, I'm sorry. 215. My math isn't very good. Apparently today, too much watching the game yesterday. 215.
- Jim Wood
Person
Let's not make him any older than he already is. We're going to move on now to adjournments in memory. Members, the quorum call is still in place. Assemblymember Haney, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
Thank you. Mr. Speaker and Members, it is with great sadness and a profound sense of gratitude and honor that I put forward this immemorial resolution to commemorate the passing of a San Francisco housing advocate, a tenderline icon, someone who had more spunk and joy than I think anyone I've ever met. My dear friend, Connie Moy. Connie lived a long and remarkable life. She was born in China and immigrated to the United States in 1947. In the aftermath of World War II.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
She settled in Reno, Nevada in 1959, where she worked as a professional blackjack dealer for 37 years. Upon her retirement, Connie moved to San Francisco and made the tenderloin neighborhood her home. Living in Maria Manor, a senior building for the last 27 years and having an incredible impact on her community.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
She was an incredibly active member, volunteering her free time by distributing produce and making coffee for fellow residents during their social hours and frequently serving as a translator for many of her neighbors. But Connie wasn't just a friendly face. She was a fierce advocate. When Maria Manor came under speculative threat, Connie helped to organize an effort that fought the sale and demolition of her building, which housed 12,129 seniors and individuals with disabilities.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
Enlisting the help of San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown and saving Maria Manor, she eventually went on to become a board Member for the Tenderloin Neighbor Development Corporation, the nonprofit company that managed her building, and was also elected as the founding President of the Tenderloin Chinese Rights Association, a social and self help tenant organization that grew to over 300 Members.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
Just a few years ago, I had the opportunity to ride with her in the Lunar New Year parade in our car and to see the joy and excitement that she had. To see the City of San Francisco celebrate the Lunar New Year, I think is especially appropriate to be honoring and commemorating her today.
- Matt Haney
Legislator
She passed away on November seventeenth and she survived by her seven children, 14 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, her best friend and collaborator, Su Cheng, and a community of thousands who will remember her for her tireless advocacy, ferocious spirit, and generous and joyful smile. Her friends and family from the Tenderloin community where I also live, my neighbors, and her family join us today in the gallery. They will surely carry on her legacy and her memory forever. Thank you.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Mr. Haney. Assemblymember Alvarez, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
Thank you. Mr. Speaker, I respectfully request that today we adjourn in memory of Roy Casares. This is an inspiring story that I hope you take some of the lessons that I learned about Roy's life with you as well. Roy was born on March 31, 1942, in Mexico, and was raised in San Diego.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
He was, when he came here as a kid, was placed in vocational classes while he was at Sweetwater High School in the City of National City, which I represent as many Mexican Americans and Mexican students were at the time. Unlike his father, Roy was not very good with his hands. His father worked on the ship engines. As you fly into San Diego, you've all seen the warships there on our bay and that's what his father did.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
But Roy was not very proficient with tools and being that he was tracked in the classes that he was in, his grades began to suffer and he dropped out of high school. He later went on to adult school, taking classes in the night and working at tomato packing plants as we had many of them in south San Diego by day. In 1961 he was able to receive his GED and then went on to go to serve for two years in the US army.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
When he returned to San Diego, he went to Southwestern College, our local community college, and then to San Diego State University where he successfully helped recruit more Mexican American students from all over Southern California. He graduated with honors from San Diego State in 1970, and three years later he graduated from Harvard, where he also pushed to have more Latino students and a more diverse faculty. Roy became one of the few Latino attorneys in San Diego in the 1970s.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
Focusing on criminal defense work and later moving on to labor law and civil rights litigation. He was a founder of the San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association, an Association that's very active to this day. One notable civil case that he took on was to ensure that the rehiring of nearly one dozen San Diego police officers of color who had been wrongly fired by the Department.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
It had been a time when many law enforcement agencies were sued over their hiring practices, which later led to increased hiring of black and Latino officers via federal consent decrees. In 1982, Governor Jerry Brown appointed Roy to the South Bay Municipal Court. He retired in 2000 as a Superior Court Judge. Roy was also an instructor at Southwestern College, which he attended, and San Diego State, and served on various boards, including San Diego Health Center.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
Roy was 81 when he passed away on January ninth of this year. In addition to his four daughters and siblings, he is survived by his wife Maria and more than a dozen grandchildren. Roy was one of 11 children who became successful professionals. His older brother who also passed away, Carlos Casares, was also a Superior Court judge. At this moment, I'd like to introduce one of the Members who is part of the family who is with us, Marlene Garcia.
- David Alvarez
Legislator
She is the Executive Director of the Student Aid Commission. Following in her uncle's footsteps of service to others is with us here in the rear of the chamber. Roy will be remembered and respected as a jurist and a mentor to many across the County of San Diego, particularly to Chicanos in the legal community. May he rest in peace.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you Assemblymember Alvarez, Assemblymember Quirk-Silva, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.
- Sharon Quirk-Silva
Legislator
Thank you Mr. Speaker and Members. Today I rise to adjourn in memory of Anthony White, a dedicated football coach whose impact reached far beyond the field. Anthony White, at the age of 42 passed away after a valiant battle with cancer. His loss leaves a void not only in Santa Ana College athletics but in the hearts of all who knew him. Coach White's tenure at Santa Ana College, spanning three seasons, was marked by his unwavering dedication to his players and the game.
- Sharon Quirk-Silva
Legislator
Despite his illness, he remained committed, attending games and coaching remotely as a testament to his resilience and passion. Recognized as one of the first black head coaches in Orange County Community College, football coach White was a trailblazer who championed diversity and inclusivity and coaching ranks. His impact on his players in the community transcended wins and losses. Described as both an outstanding coach and an exceptional human being, Coach White's legacy extends far beyond the football field.
- Sharon Quirk-Silva
Legislator
His commitment to mentorship and leadership was evident during his tenure at Buena Park High, where he transformed the football program into consistent winners. Under his guidance, the Coyotes achieved remarkable success, culminating in their first outright freeway league title in over two decades. His impact on players who reached the NFL, such as Jalen Hawkins, Josh Tupou, and Nick Needham, speaks volumes about his coaching proness and ability to inspire greatness. Coach White's dedication to his players went beyond the gridiron.
- Sharon Quirk-Silva
Legislator
His classroom was always open, embodying the belief of the power of education and mentorship to shape young lives. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, colleagues, and the Santa Ana college community during this difficult time. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew him. Please join me in honoring the life and legacy of Anthony White.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you Assemblymember Quirk-Silva. Assemblymember Bonta, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Thank you Mr. Speaker and Members. It is with a very heavy heart that I ask this body to adjourn in the memory of Oakland Police Officer Tuan Lei. Officer Le was born in Saigon, Vietnam on June first 1987, and later moved to Oakland and was naturalized on September 112001. He graduated from the 180 third police academy on February 21 2021- 2020, officially beginning a journey of public service.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
For the last two years, Officer Le served as the community resource officer in West Oakland and sadly died in the line of duty. I had the opportunity to work with him and meet with him on several different occasions to collaborate on ways to address the increased violence against the API community and break-ins on API-owned businesses, especially for the Vietnamese community.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
At his celebration of life, I learned that he emigrated from Vietnam, that his mother raised him as a strong single mother, that he married his high school sweetheart, that he was the best uncle in the world, that he was a selfie king. And since he was a child, what he wanted most was to be a police officer. And I learned that he was a son of Oakland.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
He was one of the few API officers with the force and his commitment to strengthening the working relationship between law enforcement and residents was sincere. His efforts in fostering positive relationships have made a lasting impact. Weeks before his passing, Officer Lay was presented with the John Grubensky Award. This is given to officers who demonstrate a superior initiative or courage when attempting to render life-saving medical aid to members of the Department or the community.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
Officer Lei's passing leaves a void in the law enforcement community, the City of Oakland, the Vietnamese, and the greater API community, and in the hearts and minds of everyone who knew him and cared for him. I asked the members of the Police Department to share something about their fallen brother. They noted that they will miss his kindness, his smile, his incredible positivity that he brought to every single day of their lives with him. Officer Le was taken too soon.
- Mia Bonta
Legislator
December 29, 2023 marks the end of his watch. Thank you. And again, I ask that we adjourn in the memory of Officer Tuan Le.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblymember Bonta. Assemblymember Ortega, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.
- Liz Ortega
Legislator
Thank you, speaker and Members, I also rise in adjournment of Officer Le. This loss was felt deeply across the East Bay. Officer Le resided in my district in the City of Hayward and served as the community resource officer in West Oakland. As mentioned, he graduated from the 180 third police academy on February 21, 2020 to begin his journey of public service.
- Liz Ortega
Legislator
He was one of few API officers with Oakland Police Department and he worked tirelessly to strengthen the bond and the trust between officers and the community that they serve. His efforts to connect with the community in the East Bay have made a lasting impact.
- Liz Ortega
Legislator
His service was held in my district, in the community of Castro Valley, and you could see and feel the mark that he had left behind by the huge outpouring of support on the roads, on the streets that were filled with mourners and well-wishers to honor his service. Officer Le's passing leaves a void in the law enforcement community, the East Bay, and in the hearts of his friends and family. Thank you again. And I ask that we adjourn in the memory of Officer Tuan Le.
- Jim Wood
Person
Thank you, Assemblymember Ortega. 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. Moving to announcements. Session schedule is as follows. Tuesday, February 13th. Check-in session. Wednesday, February 14th, Valentine's Day. Don't forget. Check-in session. Thursday, February 15th, check-in session. Friday, February 16th floor session at 9 AM. All other items will be remaining will be passed and retained. All motions shall be continued.
- Jim Wood
Person
Seeing and hearing no further business, I'm ready to entertain a motion to adjourn. Moved by Mr. Santiago, seconded by Ms. Waldron this house stands adjourned until Friday of February 16th at 9 AM. Quorum call is lifted. The house is adjourned.