Senate Floor
- Steven Bradford
Person
Secretary, please call the roll.
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll Call]
- Steven Bradford
Person
Members of Quorum is present. With the members and our guests beyond the rail and in the gallery, please rise. We'll be led in prayer this afternoon by Senator Eggman, after which we're going to ask you to remain standing for the pledge of allegiance to the flag. Senator Eggman.
- Susan Talamantes Eggman
Person
As students and teachers begin another school year, and as all of us continue to be educated every day, let us pray that we will never throw in the towel when situations become difficult, as illustrated in this poem by Sister Pat Ryan. I nearly threw in the towel.
- Susan Talamantes Eggman
Person
It was May, my first year teaching. After algebra class, Carleen whispered in my ear, sister, when are you going to learn what X is? Oh, Carleen, so many years later, I cannot tell you a lot more about x. It only. It not only marks the spot, it symbolizes every unknown, every mystery.
- Susan Talamantes Eggman
Person
It's a letter that everyone is looking for. I've learned so much since you stunned me with that question. My answer right now would be never. We are never going to learn what X is. It is the nameless essence of the eternal search, the magnet pulling the evolutionary process.
- Susan Talamantes Eggman
Person
It is totally available and open to any brain that needs a marker to hold onto the infinite reality passing through. We are never going to learn what x is, but we will never stop trying. Amen.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Members, please join me in a pledge of allegiance to the flag. I pledge allegiance.
- Steven Bradford
Person
All right, before we move to privileges of the floor, we have a special announcement. Let's all give a California Senate happy birthday to none other than Senator Nancy Skinner. Happy birthday. Wish you another 21 happy years. Go right on.
- Steven Bradford
Person
All right, members, we're moving to privilege of the floor. Members, at this time, we will begin with our 2024 Senate fellow presentation. Our President ProTem will get us started with his remarks. Senator McGuire, the floor is yours.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
Thank you. I'm gonna just take a moment. Colleagues, I rise today to mark the end of a journey and the beginning of a bright new future. As we near the final stage of this legislative session, we need to take a moment and acknowledge the 2024 cohort of Senate fellows.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
These accomplished young leaders are truly some of the golden state's best and brightest. This year's fellows come from universities and colleges, from every corner of this great state. CSUs, UC's, private institutions, and even the University of Rhode Island, where Cecilia is a proud Rhodey ram. Now let me be clear.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
It is not easy to become a Senate fellow. These folks made it through a highly selective process. In fact, 130, 130 individuals applied for this distinguished cohort. Only 18 made the cut.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
Lee's leaders here today set themselves apart from the rest, showing that they are tenacious, they are smart, diligent and know how to deliver for the people of California. And for the past 11 months, they have run ragged.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
They've run ragged staffing bills and committees, writing, analysis and floor marks, and pretty much being everywhere all at once in two different buildings. It's something to admire. And this institution in our state is stronger because of their hard work and because of their leadership.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
On a personal note, Chris Nielsen, who I get to work with every day in our office now a senior policy advisor, started out as a fellow nearly a decade ago. So there's no doubt in my mind we are in the company of leadership here in the State of California with these fellows.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
We are in the company of leaders in the State Senate. I can tell you that we are immensely proud. No matter if you are a Democrat or a Republican, we are immensely proud of the work that you've done here in the Capitol.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
And on behalf of this esteemed body, congratulations and thank you for helping us shape policy for nearly 40 million Californians. Ladies and gentlemen, from the State Senate, I want to hear you loud and proud. Let's give it up for the 2024 cohort of Senate fellows. Let's go.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Mcguire, floor is yours.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
Thank you so much, Mister President and colleagues of the Senate. If it works for folks, I'd like to be able to kick off our recognition of the 2024 cohort. Colleagues, unfortunately, Senator Umberg, who wanted to be here today, could not.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
He's out for family business and I wanted to take a moment and assist in recognizing his amazing fellow, Mufida Assaf. Mufida is a Palestinian American who lived in Jordan at a young age. In addition to living in both northern and Southern California, she graduated from UC Riverside where she was student body President.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
Her strong sense of justice and determination has made her an invaluable asset and a team member to Senator Umberg, where she has excelled in all of her focus areas.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
Mufida is already ready to jump at any chance to help, and she has worked on a plethora of tough bills, including ones related to housing, substance use treatment, as well as Care Corp. She seamlessly embedded herself into the office of Senator Umberg.
- Mike McGuire
Legislator
Her entire, his entire team loves what she does and she's going to continue to serve the people of California for many years to come. Can we please give her a round of applause and say thank you to your tremendous work to the California State Senate, and to Senator Umberg.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Limon, the floor is yours.
- Monique Limón
Legislator
Thank you. Our office is truly fortunate to have Aileen Amador as a fellow on Team Limon, originally from Aileen, moved to the US at the age of 16. She later attended UC Santa Cruz where she earned her bachelor's of arts in legal studies and a minor in global information and social enterprise studies.
- Monique Limón
Legislator
Over the past year, Aileen has shown remarkable growth and a strong commitment to learning, consistently asking insightful questions to better understand our legislative process and the legislative issues.
- Monique Limón
Legislator
Her positive attitude has really enriched our office and she constantly demonstrates great enthusiasm, whether on her work, when she's introducing bills, or whether she's introducing us to camellia, horchata cold brews, or Celsius.
- Monique Limón
Legislator
From demonstrating an interest in transportation committee to leading some of our most challenging legislation this year, Aileen has excelled in a short period of time. Her background as an immigrant from Mexico, as a teenager who came to this country full of inspiration, also inspires all of us.
- Monique Limón
Legislator
Aileen exemplifies the best of the California experience and we are fortunate to have her on our team. We are deeply appreciative of her work on behalf of Senate District 19 and throughout the State of California. We look forward to watching her succeed in the years to come. Congratulations, Aileen.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Hurtado.
- Melissa Hurtado
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. This year we had the privilege of having Carmen Ayon placed in our office as our Senate fellow. Carmen is a proud Sacramento native and first generation Latina college student who attended UC Berkeley, where she earned her bachelor's degree in legal studies and public policy.
- Melissa Hurtado
Legislator
Carmen comes from a hard working Mexican American family and attributes to her working class upbringing as the largest motivator in her efforts to to improve her community. Carmen has been a tremendous asset to our office throughout the year and tackled complex issues while analyzing legislation on the Senate Judiciary, Public Safety, Housing, Transportation and Human Services Committee.
- Melissa Hurtado
Legislator
In addition, Carmen has made sure to contribute to Senate District 16 in various ways. One of them is through her work on Senate Bill 1183. Senate Bill 1183 will expand the admission criteria for community college nursing students from medically underserved regions throughout the state. Presently, the Central Valley is witnessing a massive nursing shortage.
- Melissa Hurtado
Legislator
And this bill will provide our constituents and many Californians across the state, including those in the Sacramento region, with increased locally trained, skilled nurses. Post-fellowship, I know Carmen will continue to make a positive impact in the lives of Californians throughout the state.
- Melissa Hurtado
Legislator
Carmen aspires to attend law school so that she can continue to serve the undocumented community within California and around the nation. Presently, Carmen works with a community based organization in Sacramento, Miracle University, which provides high school youth in Sacramento with college access services and ensures their voices are heard in the decision making process.
- Melissa Hurtado
Legislator
I know Carmen will continue her work with this organization to ensure that her community continues to make positive progress and many other great things around the nation. Congratulations, Carmen.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Wiener, Senator Wahab, you're next. I'm sorry.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
Thank you. To the Senate. I just want to say that our next fellow is actually a great young man. In fact, he takes jokes and gives jokes just as best as the rest of us. And I really enjoy my conversations with him. He is the Senate Public Safety Committee fellow, and I just joked with him.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
I said, I want to make sure I get your name right. It's so difficult for me to say. So our next fellow is actually John Duncan. And, you know, he told me the h is silent. So I just really want to give kudos to John.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
The work that he did this year on Senate Public Safety is extremely hard. It's a lot of sensitive issues. He actually staffed several bills and made sure that his analysis and everything was correct. John is a local. He actually grew up in West Sacramento, and he attended St. Mary's College in Morago, where he graduated in 2023.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
John has been a great asset to the Committee. He's actually very smart, flexible, easy going, and always volunteers to help a little bit more. In fact, he wanted to volunteer with our office just to carry some of the bills that we wanted to do.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
Anyone that knows him knows he's always armed with a dad joke and to put a smile on your face or to make you kind of groan or you had a tough day. So he's a very, very good guy.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
He analyzed a lot of bills on a variety of subjects, including from the feather alerts to shooting range targets, to ban books in prison and voting on private jails. But he's also, again, very much willing to help everybody.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
He gladly brought bills and paperwork to the desk when the Committee was down an assistant and volunteered for other tasks. We look forward to seeing what John's future holds for him, and we know that he's going to be a great asset to any office that absorbs him. And again, we look very much forward to supporting him.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
And this is exactly what the fellowship is about. It's about young people getting a taste for policymaking and what this building is really about. And it's about serving people. And John does that every day. So please congratulate John. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Wiener, the floor is yours.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. Colleagues, I rise to recognize Radhika Gawde, who we have the pleasure of hosting in our office as a fellow this year. Radhika was born in Walnut Creek and raised in Danville as a daughter of two immigrants and the oldest of two, her upbringing instilled in her a passion for public service.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
She first wanted to be a Capitol fellow after interning in Senator Skinner's district office as a 16 year old in high school. She then attended UC Davis, where she majored in political science, public service with a minor in environmental policy analysis and planning.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
While at UC Davis, she served as the Senate President pro tem and later as student body President. Radhika staff is staffing four of my most challenging bills. I do occasionally do a challenging bill, and she's staffing four of them this year. Two resolutions.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
And when I was sitting on the Judiciary Committee, she was my sole staffer, staffing me on that very, very challenging Committee. She has fit right in with our hard working, very fun office, including our competition with Senator Skinner's office around who can decorate our doors the most aggressively. And she's just been a wonderful addition to our team.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Radhika is deeply committed to public service. She's incredibly talented, and I know she has a very, very bright and promising future ahead where she ultimately intends to go to law school.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
But I hope she puts some more time in, in this building because she's a true asset as, to use a word that Rodhika likes to use, she has been a slay.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
So please help me in thanking her for her service to the Senate, to the people of California, and to the people of San Francisco and northern San Mateo county.
- Steven Glazer
Person
Congratulations. We next want to recognize Senator Bradford at the majority leader's desk. Senator Bradford.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you, Mister President. And it's with great honor and pride that I have the pleasure to recognize a young man who has spent the last 11 months at my office as a fellow. And that's none other than Vincent Nguyen.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Vincent is from the City of El Monte and graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a bachelor's degree in public administration. From the first day, Vincent was eager to get to work in the California Legislature.
- Steven Bradford
Person
His insightful questions regarding both the policy and procedural aspects of the job kept us all on our toes and led to a greater overall understanding of the legislative process. Vincent's work has proved invaluable to our legislative and district staff. He approached every task assigned to him with enthusiasm and confidence.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Professional and extremely personable, Vincent has been a constant source of optimism, humor, and even humor during some of the most difficult times. And he's always had a way to come into my office and let his hair down to prove that he had more hair than me. My office learned much about Vincent's culture and hometown.
- Steven Bradford
Person
He was a competitive swimmer. I didn't know this electric dance music. He didn't share that with me. And we also learned that the man loves to eat.
- Steven Bradford
Person
He is the official caucus, a lunch caucus chair for the fellows, and he is either recycler or he loves target because he brought his food in every day in a target bag.
- Steven Bradford
Person
He staffed multiple complex bills across several areas, including consumer protections from harmful overdraft fees, homeowners assistance for descendants of enslaved people, and prohibiting law enforcement use of ethnic shooting targets. Vincent enthusiastically took over the role of staffing me on Senate Public Safety Committee, providing analysis and recommendations of some of the most difficult bills this session.
- Steven Bradford
Person
I'm confident that he has the intelligence to work ethic and communication skills to thrive in any endeavor that he chooses to pursue in the future. Vincent, thank you for your service to not only the 35th Senate district, but to the people of California.
- Steven Glazer
Person
Congratulations. We would like to next recognize Senator Seyarto at the majority leader's desk. Senator Seyarto.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. Members, today I'm here and I am honored to present and introduce my Senate fellow, Christian Lopez. I'd first like to note that while I'm proud to say that my Capitol legislative team is comprised entirely of past fellows, Christian also has the special honor of coming from our district.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
Hailing from the City of Norco, which is also known as Horsetown, USA. He graduated Magna cum laude from Cal Baptist University with a bachelor's degree in political science.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
Christian was also the debate champion for his debate league, and we found out how good of a debater he is this year, taking on the responsibilities of staffing me on the committees of natural resources and transportation. Christian has taken on the heavy bills from those committees and has provided me with amazing analysis and support.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
This is on top of the four bills he took lead on, one of which has already been signed into law by the Governor. His research, problem solving, and public service mindset have also helped in his coverage of our staffing, many other subjects in our office, like labor, human services and education.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
He has brought his smile, his amazing amount of energy, and a great work ethic to our team. Christian constantly seeks to serve not just our team, but the office and our office, but his own community and our 32nd Senate district.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
And I would also like to add that he has accepted an offer to become a full time legislative aide for our Capitol office. So we are so happy to welcome him to our team. So it is with great pleasure and honor that we present him with this resolution and recognize his accomplishment in the Capital Fellows program.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Next up is Senator Smallwood-Cuevas.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President, and good afternoon, members. I rise today to recognize the work of this year's Senate fellowship cohort, as well as our amazing fellow, Kenya Marie Mahone. She's joined here today by her parents, Ken and Marie, who are in the gallery.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
And I want to thank them for their work of instilling in Kenya the values of equity, justice, and a strong work ethic. Part of this is a leadership development program, and Kenya was one of those.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
Was a fellow who was the first one in the office, the last one out of the office, the first one to respond to a text, to an email. She was our pitch hitter this session.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
Originally from the Bay Area, Kenya attended Pomona College in Claremont, California, where she studied public policy and discovered her passion for local and state government. And Kenya is also a fighter. She not only has a passion, but she studies state and local government.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
And she will fight you with facts to say this is a way that we can move this bill. And she did that on our diversion bill. She handled and led on my SB 14461 of our most public bills and controversial bills. And she also staffed me on the reparations package and as a staffer for the caucus.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
Kenya was a Jack of all trades and she mastered them all. Beyond managing legislation, Kenya has had the opportunity to jump in on various projects, including community events where she rolled up her sleeves and even came down to the district to support.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
Kenya has played a pivotal role in our legislative team, navigating and negotiating and researching issues on healthcare and labor and criminal justice, intersectionality, to name a few. Kenya also along with the rest of this amazing cohort, which I had the honor to have lunch with during their year.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
And they all had so many amazing questions and really represented the energy that we so need in this chamber. But Kenya in particular just provided a day-to-day perspective that really energized and motivated me on days when it was just frankly, tough.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
Our Senate fellows who come from across California with differing political and ideological views do in fact represent the future of the Legislature. And they have contributed to our office every single day. We want to thank Kenya for all and all of the fellows for their amazing work, for what they bring to the Legislature each and every day.
- Lola Smallwood-Cuevas
Legislator
But more importantly, what Kenya has provided us. And we look forward to working with her for many, many, many more years to come. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Next up, Senator Ochoa Bogh.
- Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. Today I have the born and raised in Tulare, Lindsay Mendoza graduated from the Fresno State with degrees in agricultural, business and political science. Lindsay, has been an absolute pleasure to have to have you in my office. I always enjoy seeing the Senate through the eyes of our fellows.
- Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh
Legislator
They are eager, excited to experience every part of our work. And you were no exception. You were always willing to jump in and attend events with me. You supported your teammates and were gracious with everyone who came into the office. She took copious notes and relayed the info accurately giving objective feedback, which I absolutely appreciated.
- Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh
Legislator
And I do have to insert in here that Lindsay, I've been here, this is my fourth year. And I've been able to be blessed with three interns, all smart, bright, kind, and very stylish women. And I do have to note that Lindsay was no exception to this style very much always coming on point to our office.
- Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh
Legislator
And many probably noticed her tall white boots always in style here. And I have to mention that because it really is a pleasure to have young women who actually bring forth the level of decorum and professionalism to the office. And of course, Lindsay was a beautiful example of that.
- Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh
Legislator
But with that, I also want to take an opportunity to thank her parents for raising such a fine young woman. Our children are not raised by themselves. And it really does take an incredible partnership with parents and family to help support that. And they have made an incredible, incredible impression. And we're blessed to have her with us.
- Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh
Legislator
It is clear you have an incredibly bright future ahead of you. Thank you for all the joy and laughter you brought to the office and style. And we're really going to miss you, Lindsay. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Next up, we have Senator Caballero.
- Anna Caballero
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President and members. Today I have the distinct honor to recognize Senate fellow Jose Ruiz Benitez for his service and contribution to the 14th Senate district. Jose Ruiz Benitez graduated from Chico State University with a BA in economics and is a proud alumnus of Sacramento City College and a native of Sacramento.
- Anna Caballero
Legislator
He's been a tremendous asset in our office and an incredibly important part of our team. His dedication to learning and understanding the legislative process helped him to become an essential team member. During his time in the office, Jose staffed several bills and analyzed an array of complexity issues in health, education, and judiciary.
- Anna Caballero
Legislator
He has a capacity to learn difficult issues in a short amount of time and one of his most notable achievements is the work he did on my seismic safety legislation. Not an easy topic. He played a critical role in advancing this bill through his research, attention to detail, and collaboration with joint and co-authors along with stakeholders.
- Anna Caballero
Legislator
In addition, Jose has performed remarkable work learning how to staff committees and quickly brief on those issues. His dedication, reliability, and communication skills are some of his attributes which contributed to his success and will ensure his long term success. Beyond his legislative work, Jose's contribution to our office has been invaluable.
- Anna Caballero
Legislator
Our office would not be the same without Jose's smile and sense of humor, which often leaves us wondering if the room is laughing with him or at him. And let's not forget his random bursts of singing which ensure that the door to my office is regularly closed.
- Anna Caballero
Legislator
And yet, it has all brought a unique energy to our daily routines. Hoy, Jose esta acompanado por sus padres el senor Jose Ruiz Gomez y la senora Laura Ruiz Benitez muchas gracias, a sus padres por el excellente trabajo creando un joven con buenos valores y una etica excepcional. I'm recognizing his parents for raising such an incredibly exceptional, exceptional young man.
- Anna Caballero
Legislator
Thank you, Jose Ruiz Benitez, for your excellent staff work and your dedicated service to the entire State of California and most importantly, to District 14.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Next up is Senator Portantino.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
Mister President and Members, I have the honor to rise today to recognize Mohamed Salman, the dedicated Senate fellow in Senator Newman's office who also spent time as a SAC semester intern in my office. Mohammed is originally from Fremont, but his life journey has taken him across the country to Indiana, Georgia, Illinois, and most recently to Elk Grove.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
Mohammed graduated from Sacramento State with a bachelor's degree in political science. Senator Newman shared that over the course of his fellowship, Mohammed has demonstrated an impressive commitment to public service and an admirable interest in public policy.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
As a key Member of Senator Newman's policy team, Mohammed's focus has been in the areas of judiciary, public safety, insurance, and military and veterans affairs. He has played a key role in staffing six bills, including SB 1080, which sought to ensure halal and kosher food options in schools across the state.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
To have sizable cohorts of students observing religious dietary practices, a project he considers the highlight of his fellowship. In addition to his legislative work for a time, Mohammed also bravely took on the role of interim scheduler. We all know how difficult that job is. Imagine being a fellow being asked to do policy and scheduling.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
And though we and he learned that scheduling just might not be his true final calling, his efforts in this demanding position proved just how eager Mohammed always is to dive into any situation with determination and resilience. His willingness to take on all tasks, no matter how daunting, speaks volumes about his character and commitment.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
Mohammed enjoys simple pleasures of life, cheese pizza from pizza, supreme being and WWE. In fact, he's already planning his next vacation to Las Vegas to coincide with Wrestlemania. It's true, his knowledge of professional basketball is unending and extremely impressive, though a little bit misguided in who he roots for.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
And I'm glad to note that, like all Senate staffers, truly worth their salt. This is Mister Newman. He is a hardcore Lakers fan, so Mohammed is deeply connected to and grateful for his parents, Rabab Sultan and Ayyad Al Chut Hobey, whose unwavering support has been his anchor through his journey in public service and public policy so far.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
We're pleased to have them here in the gallery, along with his brothers, Jafer and moon Tautur. And on behalf of Senator Newman and myself, I have to just add a personal comment. He is a nice, serious young person, and as Senator Newman said, always willing to jump in and do whatever needs to be done.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
I know Senator Newman is very thankful to have Haddam in his office, as am I to, and so please congratulate Mohammed.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Next up is Senator Padilla.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Thank you very much, Mister President and Members. It's with great pride that I rise to recognize someone who has become a critical part of Team Padilla here in the capital. My Senate fellow, Sisi Sidley.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Sisi was born and raised here in Sacramento and attended Christian Brothers High School before heading to the East Coast, the University of Rhode Island, where she was a division one pitcher for their softball team. Go Rams.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Her sophomore year, Sisi led the team in wins, in part thanks to her unhittable rise ball off the field, she was an incredible student, double majoring in political science and criminal justice and criminology with a minor in conservation biology.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Sisi cites her studies and how lucky she was to grow up in California, with its diversity of opinion and opportunity as the reason she applied for the fellows program. And we are certainly grateful that she did. Upon joining our office, CC jumped right into the legislative process, running several bills and staffing multiple committees.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
What stands out about Ceci pretty quickly is her amazing analytical capabilities, that quick comprehension of complex legislative processes, and an eye for good policy. And I, for one, know a fellow policy nerd when I see one.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
She's most proud of her work on SB 990, which directs Cal OES to update our emergency plans to make sure that our LGBTQ communities receive equitable care during and after an emergency.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
She also has played a vital role in researching some of the hardest environmental justice issues facing the state and working with me on bills to address pollution in the Tijuana river watershed. I'm very grateful for her energy and optimism that she brings to our office every single day.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
And, in fact, we learn from her as she learns as well. For instance, those of us of a certain age in her office didn't know that Olivia Rodrigo was actually punk rock, but who knew? Here today to celebrate with Cece are her mom, Brandi, and her sister, Sophie. Unfortunately, Cece's dad, Jason, recently passed away earlier this year.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
But I know, and she knows, and we can reassure her that certainly her dad is very much here today, and I want to let my colleagues know. It is my strong intention to do everything I can to make sure that perhaps CZ will join our team when her time in the program ends.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Colleagues, Mister President, please help me in welcoming and recognizing CeCe Sidley.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator Wilk, the floor is yours, and we're going to ask the Members if you can take your conversations off the floor so we can dedicate our focus and attention to our fellows being recognized. Thank you.
- Scott Wilk
Person
Thank you, Mister President. This is my 12th and final year in the Legislature, and I've been blessed for 10 of those 12 years to have a fellow. And I know it's not because of me, but it's because of the great staff that I've had through the years.
- Scott Wilk
Person
So I just want to thank all my staff for the work that they've done raising up the next generation of leaders. I also want to thank Jamie Taylor, who's been with me the whole time. And even when you're a leader, you're not supposed to get a fellow.
- Scott Wilk
Person
But even one year when I was a leader, I've got a fellow. I want to appreciate him realizing the value of having people in an office that function so well. So I'd like to introduce you. zero, you're there. I'd like to introduce you to my fellow Connor, James Sloan.
- Scott Wilk
Person
He is the first begotten son of Jim and Michelle Sloan, and he hails from Granite Bay, so he's local. He graduated in three years from the real Cal Poly, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he was a stud rugby player until he blew out his knee. So he had a vision of becoming a professional rugby player.
- Scott Wilk
Person
That's not going to happen. So now he's turned himself towards public service. His nickname in our office is born ready because we throw stuff at this kid all the time and he's like always ready to do it.
- Scott Wilk
Person
In fact, honestly, I didn't even know who he was for the two months, the first two months because he was never in the office, because he's out getting people to sign on as co authors to our Bill package. He's also very constituent oriented, where he slashes through the red tape to help our constituents.
- Scott Wilk
Person
One day somebody called the office and there's two people in the office, him and our Chief of Staff, Eileen Ricker. And he said that I was not, I was not here, but our Chief of Staff is here and she's not doing anything. So let me put you on the phone with her.
- Scott Wilk
Person
And the, and the person who I guess calls all the time was so excited. It's the first time that that woman's ever talked to a Chief of Staff or a Senator in her entire career of calling our office. So I want to thank you for that. That's great work.
- Scott Wilk
Person
Also, as you know, Senate staffers are normally older, so they want to do their job and just go home. They don't have the same enthusiasm as the Young Assembly staffers have. And so I made him, he's very social, so I made him my body man so he could, you know, network people when we go out.
- Scott Wilk
Person
So we're going out one night, got four events going to the second vent, and there's a local elected official there whom I don't like. I'm sure we all have elected officials we don't like. I said, look it, 10 minutes, and then we're out of here. Make sure we're out of here.
- Scott Wilk
Person
So we're there, and my elected officials drone it on and on and on, and they're like, where's Connor? Where's Connor? And then I turn. He's at the bar with, like, entertaining three pretty girls. I'm trying to get his attention. So that's the last time he did that, though. He really stepped up his game after that.
- Scott Wilk
Person
In terms of what he's done legislatively, he's done everything we've asked him to do.
- Scott Wilk
Person
So he, so my LD, Matt Gallagher, I don't think he likes, he either likes, does not like him, or really respects him because he did JLAc, which is fine, but then he also staffed on judiciary and education, which are heavy lift committees, as you know, and they're stacked one on top of another.
- Scott Wilk
Person
Sometimes we end at 11:00 p.m. in judiciary, and then we got to be back at 09:00 a.m. the next morning. And he's just done a phenomenal job with that. He's done four bills for me. Let's see if they get killed.
- Scott Wilk
Person
We're still going through the process, but one of them, if we're successful, is going to actually be very helpful to taxpayers and also to animals because we've got a Bill that there's a process that you can use to spay and neuter animals because I don't know.
- Scott Wilk
Person
But so many of these animal shelters now are just kill zones because there's so many animals in there and not enough people to wanting to adopt them. So he's been fantastic. He's certainly been my most colorful fellow that I've had.
- Scott Wilk
Person
In many respects, he reminds me of me, which is kind of scary at times, but I wish him nothing but the best moving forward. I think he has an incredibly bright future, and he's not afraid to set trends. You know, things come into style and out of style.
- Scott Wilk
Person
So in style in the seventies was the mustache has been out of style, but he's bringing it back into style. So you got to respect that. So 23 years from now, when all you guys are wearing mustaches like that, you can thank Connor Sloan with that. I want to say congratulations and best of luck.
- Scott Wilk
Person
In the future.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator Laird, the floor is yours.
- John Laird
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President and Members, I'm pleased to recognize Paige Zabati for the work that she has done this year in my office. She was born and raised in Korskold, a small town just outside of Yosemite National park. She attended the University of California at Davis where she received degrees in political science, public service and communication.
- John Laird
Legislator
Throughout this year, she has staffed me on a multitude of policy areas, including on the Senate labor Committee, not the Easiest Committee to staff, where she staffed meetings with stakeholders and consultants and advised me on legislation that came before the Committee.
- John Laird
Legislator
She has staffed five bills and she was the first of her fellowship class to staff a Bill that was signed into law when the world's aid day law was signed by the Governor. Paige has also become somewhat of an expert on gift card law. Her hard work made her a pleasure to have in the office.
- John Laird
Legislator
Her sense of humor is always in evidence. When partway through the year, another fellow walked up to me and asked if I had a fellow. I knew that that fellow would be teased mercilessly for the next period of time. And that person was so.
- John Laird
Legislator
Following her fellowship, Paige hopes to continue advocating for Californians on the national level in Washington DC as a legislative staffer with the United States Congress. Thank you Paige, for a great year in our office. We've loved working with you. We actually are going to miss you greatly. Congratulations on a great year.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator Grove.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. I need to assure my fellow I am going to stick to the talking points and not go off. She was a little nervous about that. It's with immense pride and heartfelt joy that I stand before all of you to introduce a truly remarkable individual. Ariana Sabo.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
Accompanied today by her parents, her sisters and her beloved grandma there in the gallery right up there. Ariana is not only a shining light for her own as her own, but she is a testament of strength and perseverance and love for her entire family. Ariana attended William Jessup University where she earned a degree in public policy.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
She had just completed an internship for Placer county supervisor Bonnie Gore. When I met her at a William Jessup graduation, she informed me. She introduced herself, told me who her parents were and informed me that she would be my new fellow for this year. I was really excited that she was joining team Grove.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
After spending five minutes with her at that graduation, I knew she was going to fit in with our entire team just tremendously. From the very moment that Ariana stepped through our door, she brought her infectious enthusiasm unwavering. Dedication and her continued heart of service for our constituents.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
And she would always take the time to make sure that she talked to our constituents, made them feel like they were being helped, and then really address the issue that they had before them.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
She's been working on legislation to ease the complexity, specifically her Bill for student mental health issues that are going on as students still recover from COVID That Bill is back on concurrence and only one step away from the governor's office. So I'm really proud of her for getting that Bill through the entire building.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
She's worked on health resources and water policy. And in her brief tenure with us, Ariana has managed five critical bills, one of which I just explained, and the other one has already. One has already been signed by the Governor. Beyond her impressive intellect, Ariana is a Delight. She's got a delightful wit. She's an extraordinary sense of humor.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
It's a very dry sense of humor. And you have to know when she's joking and she's not. It's a determination that you have to make. And as she prepares to embark on her next adventure, I'm confident that she'll face whatever challenges that come her way with courage and the brilliance that she's demonstrated in our office.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
I'm so proud that she's part of Team Grove, and I know that God will bless her in everything that she puts her hands to because she really is a core solid, just an incredible individual from the inside out. So I just thank you for being a part of my team.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator Portantino.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
Thank you, Mister President. Today I am also honored to recognize Ryan Tomlinson, who has made an incredible contribution to our team. And I have to tell you all what I like about Ryan is on the very first day he said, Boss, every one of your bills is going to get signed by the Governor.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
So we kept him based on that pledge. So it's good. So we're holding him responsible for that. If had to deviate from the script. Ryan was born on February 32000 in Sacramento, California, and has been a lifelong resident of Sacramento for more than 20 years. After graduating from John F.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
Kennedy High School, he attended Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Ryan's leadership was evident early on as he served as a student advisor to the dean and founded the Graduate Student Association. He also spent his last year working in local government for the City of San Luis Obispo, where he helped implement citywide policies.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
He graduated from Cal Poly in five years with both his bachelor's degree in political science and his master's in public policy. Upon being accepted to the Capital Fellows program, Ryan was placed in my office and has been instrumental in staffing and addressing critical issues across the State of California.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
He has worked on four significantly complex bills that address issues ranging from education, the opioid crisis, to taxis and public safety concerns. One of the bills is extremely complicated with lots of moving parts and he has done a fantastic, fantastic job navigating that through the system.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
Beyond his legislative work, Ryan has showed a deep commitment to service even outside the capital. He was elected as the fellows representative for the Asian Pacific Islander Capital Association where he has been able to serve and uplift the API community through his wonderful work.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
Ryan's fellowship experience has been transformative not only for him, but for all of us who have had the pleasure of working with him on a daily basis. He truly is a nice person and it is very fun just to be around him because he's got that smile that just says he's enjoying himself.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
And that's what we love about him. His attributes, his drive, his dedication to the foundation laid by his parents, Rick and Tammy, who have done a fantastic job. He also attributes much of his success to the unwavering support of his two younger sisters, Mia and Christy, and they're all in the gallery today.
- Anthony Portantino
Person
I know this is only the beginning for Ryan and I'm excited to see everything that he will achieve in the future. Please join me in recognizing the exceptional contributions of Ryan and see what he does in the future. Thank you.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator Rubio, you're next.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
Thank you Mister President, ladies and gentlemen of the Senate. Today it's with great honor that I'm here to recognize a wonderful individual. We often talk about fostering the next generation of leaders. Leaders. And making sure that they have the opportunity to rise.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
So as a classroom teacher, I am so excited to see so many young people grow and bloom into impressive Members of their community. And this year I've seen that happen once again. With Senate fellow Kiana Koizumi Walker as part of Team Reubeal's capitol office, Kiana is an incredible young woman with a bright future ahead.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
From an early age, Kiana has shown both her leadership abilities and care for her community. And most importantly, Kiana has continued to demonstrate kindness, compassion and empathy, whether interacting with elected officials, colleagues, capital stakeholders, or constituents who are calling desperately for help. Kiana understands the human aspect of what we do here in the capitol.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
She understands that behind every policy decision there are individuals whose lives are affected very personally with the work we do. During her time with my capitol office, Kiana took on every responsibility I gave her with enthusiasm and with attention to detail. She completed every task I gave her.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
She's incredibly diligent, thoughtful and handled herself like an experienced professional. She has helped staff me in so many committees. My committees, Select Committees. She also represented me as myself in an official tour with the Joint Committee on Arts and helped put together an incredible informational hearing for me on school climate and student safety in my district office.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
Kiana also helped navigate important legislation through the process, negotiating with stakeholders and demonstrating her communication abilities by helping with press events and social media. Guyana has truly demonstrated the best of what our youth has to offer.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
We have so many challenges facing California, but I'm grateful to have someone like Kiana that will change not just California in a positive way, but I certainly believe that she will change the world. California is in good hands with such incredible talent. Thank you Kiana Walker, for all the work you did in my office.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
And to the family for the opportunity to get to know you through her eyes. Thank you Mister President.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Last but certainly not least, Senator Cortese.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
Thank you Mister President. I'm proud to recognize Lauren Wynn, an exceptional Member of my staff. She's a lifelong Sacramento resident who literally grew up here in the City of Sacramento and attended Sacramento state. Known best for her quick wit and iconic roasts. Not me of course.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
Lauren has brought a distinct sense of humor and spirit to my office. She's a welcoming and friendly face to all who walk through our doors. Staff says, a perfect balance of silly and serious. Throughout her fellowship year, Lauren has consistently proven to be a thoughtful, thorough and effective staffer.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
Her high quality work illustrates her passion for policy and service to her community. She staffed challenging bills and with every obstacle she's risen to the occasion. Very, very impressive. Her contributions to healthcare access policy alone will make a lasting impact. I'm proud of Lauren for her accomplishments this year.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
I'm grateful for her service to my office, my constituents and the State of California. Lauren, it's been a privilege to have you on our team and we're going to miss you greatly.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
It.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator Jones, you're recognized.
- Brian Jones
Legislator
Thank you Mister President. Members, family, friends in the gallery, fellows, it's an honor of mine today to be able to give the final well wishings of the day as you graduate from here and continue on to your next adventure in life.
- Brian Jones
Legislator
I'm encouraged to see so many dedicated young professionals ready to spread their wings and continue their careers as public servants. On behalf of all Californians, to the fellows, I remind you that each constituent matters and while the work you do here may feel abstracted, it has actual effects on the day to day lives of every californian.
- Brian Jones
Legislator
To the families and friends here to celebrate with their loved ones, be proud of the work that your fellows have done this year in the California State Capitol. It is not always easy to know what is right. But they have each shown.
- Brian Jones
Legislator
They have each shown up every single day to learn and to grow and to share their expertise and help us learn and grow every single day. May you be blessed on your roads going forward.
- Brian Jones
Legislator
And I invite all of the folks that are here today to celebrate this time to join us for a reception honoring the accomplishments of all these fine fellows in this year's fellowship class in the Eureka room until 04:00 p.m. this afternoon. Thank you Mister President. Thank you Members. Thank you fellows.
- Committee Secretary
Person
On behalf of the California State Senate, we want to say thank you and congratulations to this year's fellows. We're going to now take a brief pause for some photos. We're going to have fellows first Members, we're going to ask you to step back so we can get the fellows. Now stay there.
- Committee Secretary
Person
We're going to have the PT join you for this next photo. Where's Mister President? All right, it.
- Committee Secretary
Person
All right, and now we're going to ask all Members to come in and join for a group photo. All Members and the fellows, please, at this time, Members, we're going to be back to business in 30 seconds. We'll be back to business in 30 seconds. It.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator Laird, under privilege of the floor, you're recognized.
- John Laird
Legislator
Thank you very much, Mister President. I'm proud to welcome and introduce a distinguished delegation of Senators from the Santa Fe province of Argentina to the Senate Floor today. Leading the delegation is Senator Felipe Michelige, the President pro tem, the President pro tempore. Tempore of the Senate of Santa Fe.
- John Laird
Legislator
He has been a supporter of the California Santa Fe relationship for many years. He was first elected to the Santa Fe Senate in 1999, made his first official visit to California in 2005. So the relationship is almost as long as his career. We appreciate his friendship during that entire time.
- John Laird
Legislator
He is joined by his colleagues, Senator Oscar Alfredo Dolsane, Senator Leonardo Andres Diana, Senator Herman Eduardo Giacomino, and Senator Cyro Sezas. These Senators are joined by their delegation at the back of the chambers. Right by me, including Diego Suarez, the President of the Fundacion Nueva Generacion, Argentina.
- John Laird
Legislator
Many of you know him from his active participation in climate change mitigation work. I know I met him first at a cop conference. He was co chair for Latin America from 2018 to 2020 in the under two coalition.
- John Laird
Legislator
As you are aware, our Senate and the Legislature in the province of Santa Fe have enjoyed a close relationship for many years.
- John Laird
Legislator
In fact, we have sent five delegations there over the last 20 years, including last fall's trip that I was privileged to join along with the Senator from Arinda and the Senator from Hayward, where we were graciously hosted by the fundacion.
- John Laird
Legislator
This relationship has been celebrated by the Santa Fe province in California through the enactment of sister state status for our two legislatures. So this is a close and special relationship that we will continue to nurture for years to come.
- John Laird
Legislator
While they are here, the delegation will meet with many of you, as well as Administration officials, to talk about renewable energy, climate change, criminal justice policy. They will also travel to Southern California and the Bay Area to visit with businesses and local governments in both regions.
- John Laird
Legislator
And don't forget, there'll be a reception tonight at the Stanford mansion beginning at 530. We hope as many of you come by as can, so please join me in giving a warm California State Senate welcome to this distinguished delegate.
- Committee Secretary
Person
On behalf of the California State Senate, we say welcome. We also want to take this time to wish a happy belated birthday to Senator Brian Jones. Happy belated birthday. All right, as we continue on this privilege of the floor, Senator Cortese, you're next. Senator, the floor is yours.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. As someone who spent the first 17 years of my life as a farm worker. In my very, very early years, in the heat of August, just like the heat that we're experiencing now, picking prunes in the days before.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
Machinery on hands and knees with migrant farm workers and young farm workers like myself, working side by side. It gives me absolute pleasure and honor to recognize the farm workers known as the Yolo Six, who were recently retaliated against and fired by their agriculture employer.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
For exercising their rights in the workplace in order to avoid heat, illness, injury or death. They were here today to present their case in a press event earlier today. We wanted the opportunity to introduce them to all of you. They represent thousands of farmworkers across the state and nation.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
Who toil day in and day out under extreme heat. Exacerbated by climate change, of course. To ensure that there's food on our tables every single day and night. I know firsthand how high the stakes are to one's health and safety. While working under extreme heat, weather conditions and out in the field.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
I had the advantage most of the time as the alkmaan of working in an orchard farming environment where at least there was shade available. These farm workers work in an environment where there's no shade available unless it's provided by their employment employer. Without heat prevention measures in place, lives have been lost.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
And despite California's landmark legislation by this Legislature, of course, over 19 years ago, adopting and instituting heat prevention solutions in the workplace, it is documented that just short of 50% of farmworkers today still report their farming employer not complying with existing law.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
The Yolos six who were retaliated against for standing up for their health and safety during a recent heat wave, are here with us today, and I'd like to introduce them. You've seen the legislation moving forward in the Senate that attempts to deal with the problem.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
I am grateful to all of you who have supported that measure and other measures going forward. Again, to prevent illness, heat illness, but moreover, to save lives. These are the state's backbone lifeline. Ensuring that we have food on the table. And their agricultural economy continues to thrive. It's through the collaborative efforts of the United Farm Workers Association.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
That I hope to see further legislation to protect folks just like those here today that I'm about to introduce. Joining us with United Farm Workers, we have Jorge Santana, Maria Paredes, Gerardo Reyes Cassidro Fierros, Erica Patricia Deluque Barros, President of the United Farmworkers Theresa Romero and Lady Wrangle.
- Dave Cortese
Legislator
I ask that you please give them a warm welcome, a round of applause. Thank you.
- Committee Secretary
Person
On behalf of the California State Senate, we say welcome. Yes. Next up, we have Senator Nguyen with a floor presentation.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Thank you, Mister President and colleagues. California is home to a long established and widely respected surfing culture.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
I have the pleasure of representing a beautiful stretch of the coast of Orange County, the 41 miles of Orange County coast from Seal beach to San Clemente, where they host everything from prestigious surf competitions to festivals, well known surf clothing and equipment companies, educational museums, and a tourism industry that supports many cities in our county, including Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
The State of California has first observed California Surfing day on September 202018 following the passage of my Bill, SCR 122, which I introduced to bring awareness and attention to the impact that surfing has on our state. September 20 was adopted by California surfers.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Surfers as a day to unify around their love of the ocean, the sport and the spirit of the perfect wave. Because of the iconic surf breaks in Hunter Beach, we get to host a number of major surfing events, such as the US Open of surfing, which actually was just this weekend.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
We even have one of the first surfing museums, a surfer's walk of fame on the sidewalk of Main street, and the International Surfboard Builders hall of Fame. California coastline spans 1100 miles and its beaches in our coastal areas generate $1.15 trillion in economic activity annually.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
The United States boasts approximately 3.3 million surfers who spend between 1.9 and $3.3 billion each year on local surf shops. That's a lot of money. America's surfing industry, almost exclusively in California, generates over $6 billion in annual retail sales.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
California has the largest ocean economy in the United States, ranking number one for both employment and jobs, and gross state product at approximately $41.9 billion. Now, the exciting part is Team USA won an Olympic gold medal in surfing. Our champion is Caroline Marks, who lives in San Clemente, my district.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
She has won several other championships and placed fourth in the Tokyo Olympics. I don't know if you watch any of the surfing from this year's Olympics, but it was held at Tahiti and those waves were up to 21ft high. Most people would never attempt something this dangerous.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
So needless to say, this sport requires a lot of bravery and a great deal of skills. We have many surfers from my district who have won championships around the world, including three who won the US Open this past weekend, Griffin Colapino from San Clemente and we've got Kona no Kununa, ika Washi and Brett Simpson from Huntington Beach.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Today I have represents from some of my coastal community as we recognize California Surfing Day. Please help me in welcome. First we have Peter Pt Townan, war championship champion, Pioneer and board Member of Surfing Walk of Fame.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
He was inducted into Hunting Beach Walk of Fame in 1998 and Australian Surfing hall of Fame in 2001 and also received a lifetime achievement from SiMA in 2013. We've got here Kim Aaron, justice, Director of operation for surfing the nation's California Nicole Lido, Vice President of Administration community engagement from visit H Hunting beach.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
I've got here with me my local elected officials. I have Huntington Beach Mayor Gracie Vandemark, Huntington Beach Mayor pro tem Pat Burns, Hunting beach councilmember Tony Strickland, Hunting Beach, I'm sorry, Newport Beach councilwoman Robin Grant and San Clemente mayor Victor Calville as well.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Please help me to welcome our and thank my constituents and my elected officials for coming all the way here to recognize California surfing day.
- Committee Secretary
Person
On behalf of the California State Senate, we welcome you here today.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
I also forgot to recognize Mister Potem. Former Senator Tony Strickland, who is also a Council Member from the City of Hunton beach, is also here.
- Committee Secretary
Person
All right, Members, at this time we'll be taking up the following Senate third reading items out of order. zero, I'm sorry, you have one more. I'm sorry, you have one more presentation. I'm sorry, Senator Webb.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
Senator.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Thank you, Mister President. At this time, it is my honor to pay tribute to the brave men and women who serve in the Republic of the Vietnam armed forces.
- Committee Secretary
Person
They have to read the resolution first. Thank you, secretary, please rate.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
I don't have. That's fine.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Members. At this time we'll take up the following Senate third readings items out of order. File item 39, scr 103 and file item 41, SCR 168. After adoption of each resolution, we will move to privileges of the floor for the author to introduce their guests.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Do you need to read or?
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
Yes, secretary. Please read, Senator. Concurrent resolution 103 by Senator Nguyen relative to veterans. Senator, floor is yours.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Thank you, Mr. President. Colleagues, I rise to introduce SCR 103 to honor those who have served in the Republic of the Vietnam Armed Forces, defending Vietnam and the Vietnamese people's freedom and democracy. For those who do not know, the ARVN is the armed forces of South Vietnam who fought alongside the United States Armed Forces.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Tragically, the cost of their service was high, with over 300,000 members paying the ultimate sacrifice in the fight for freedom and democracy. For those who survived, the challenges they faced did not end on the battlefield.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Facing prosecution, these individuals, these brave men and women, were forced to flee their country in search of safety, freedom, and an opportunity for their families. Despite those adversaries, these veterans successfully rebuilt their lives in the new land. This demonstrates a remarkable determination and love for their family and their country.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Their contribution to their adopted country, and those who I will be presenting here later, their adopted country is all over the world. Most of us have landed in United States. They have enriched communities around the world, and their legacy continues to inspire future generations.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Today, we come together to express our profound gratitude to these veterans, to honor their service, and at this time, I ask you respect--that you support an aye vote for SCR 103.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion or debate on this item? Hearing and seeing none, Secretary, please call the roll on File Item 39.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Steven Bradford
Person
Please call the absent members.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Steven Bradford
Person
Ayes: 37; noes: zero. The measure passes. Senator Nguyen for introductions.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Thank you, Mr. President. Again, thank you, colleague, for your support to honor the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Day on June 19th. Today, as we gather to express our profound gratitude to these veterans, to honor their services, ensure their sacrifices are never forgotten, it is fitting, as mentioned, that June 19th, annually, as veterans of the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Day, a day dedicated to acknowledging their contribution, these extraordinary individuals.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
There are only a few member of the Armed Forces Veterans among us today, and they are slowly passing away because of time. And so here I wanted just to really thank them because these individuals, allowing an individual like me, who 20 years ago couldn't even speak Vietnamese well, has embraced me, the next generation, to be able to learn Vietnamese and to be able to learn the sacrifices that they've given to Vietnam and the Vietnamese people.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
I'm so honored to recognize them here today on the Senate Floor. We have here with us--some are here, some aren't--but I want to also mention their name to recognize them.
- Janet Nguyen
Person
Lieutenant Richard Dip Bui, Lieutenant Kao Su, Captain Min Nguyen, Lieutenant Min Mandao, Lieutenant Colonel Ook Nguyen, Lieutenant Colonel Tung La, Lieutenant Huang Pham, Captain Kwang Pham, Lieutenant Mui Tai, Captain Hui Vu, Lieutenant Hy Tungbo. Please join me in honoring and thanking these heroes for their bravely selfishness and for paving the way for individuals like myself to live the American Dream.
- Steven Bradford
Person
We at the California State Senate, we say thank you for your service.
- Steven Bradford
Person
All right, Members, now we're moving on to follow item 41. Senator Wahab, she's prepared. Secretary, you may read.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Senator, Concurrent Resolution 168 by Senator Wahab, relative to women's Equality Day. Senator Wahab, thank you.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
I rise to present SCR 168. Women's equality Day. Women's Equality Day is a celebration of the 19th amendment, with women gaining the right to vote in this country, voting is a foundational right that we must not take for granted. In fact, oftentimes we hear that the pen is mightier than the sword. And it's true even today.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
We practice this every day as we vote and write legislation. But what's more important is voting, striking that pen for the person you want to vote for. As voters, we impact not only our lives and elections, but we also determine elections. We impact the lives of so many others in our communities. Women around the world suffer.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
The rights of women around the world, including right here in America, are always at risk to extremist views. Women's rights are tied to freedoms. The right to vote is foundational for women's participation and representation in decision making, although we are seeing more women run for office.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
And I'm very excited to see that gender parity in the Senate will happen. And I'm very excited to see the possibility of this this November. Now, women will disagree with each other on many topics, as we all are individuals with different lived experiences and different values. The right to vote and voting in General is nonpartisan.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
Whether you're a woman who's a Democrat or a woman who is a Republican, or someone that is still unsure, the right to vote is about the values we prioritize, a right that we can't take for granted. And oftentimes, I want to highlight to folks that still want to understand exactly what they're supposed to be voting for.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
The entire purpose is to educate yourself, understand your values, and vote your conscience. People depend on us and our representation. We represent the values, character, and sense of integrity that resonates with our constituents. We vote to improve people's lives. The right to vote is foundational to that for all of us. I respectfully ask for an aye vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Any further discussion of it on this item. Senator Skinner.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
Thank you, Mister President. Members, I rise in support of SCR 168 here in this final time as my chair of the Legislative Women's Caucus. And I urge your aye vote. California women were actually given the right to vote in October 1911, because the California voters at that time passed the equal suffrage measure.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
The amendment for the whole country wasn't ratified until 1920 in August, however, Californians did it in October 1911. But I say some women, because here in California, that measure excluded our native California women. Now we are legitimately and rightfully celebrating this right to vote.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
But since the US Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights act just 10 years ago, states, not California, but many others, have passed nearly 100 laws restricting voter rights. So there's more to do, and there's a lot more to do to achieve gender equity. Women owned startups receive less than 3% of venture capital.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
Women make up only 14% of VC venture capital decision makers. Women run non profits or the nonprofits that serve primarily. Women receive only 1% of philanthropic dollars. That surprised even me when I found that women small businesses receive fewer bank loans, and when they get them, the loans are smaller and the interest rate is higher.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
Only 10% of our Fortune 500 CEO's are women. 8.2% of standard and poor 500 company CEO's are women. And more women, especially as we get older, are living in poverty. And we cannot underestimate the full on assault on women's bodily autonomy, a right that we achieved over 50 years ago.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
But with the court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was strict, so there's more work to do in the last few years. I was beginning to feel discouraged that we hadn't gotten much past my time in kindergarten.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
When my kindergarten teacher asked all of us in class, he said, we're going to do a circus, kids, and you all get to pick which role you want to be in the circus. So I shot up my hand, she called on me and I said, she said, Nancy, what do you want to be for the circus?
- Nancy Skinner
Person
And I said, the ringmaster. What did she tell me? No, sorry, girls can't be the ringmaster. I don't even remember what role I played in that circus. I don't remember that circus at all. But today, this year, we will have, I believe, a woman ringmaster when we elect the first woman President of the United States.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
So my teacher was wrong. There has been progress, yes, more to do, but there's been progress. As my colleague from Hayward pointed out this December, there will be gender parity on this red carpet. And due to legislative leadership and the support of our Governor Newsom, financial and other support for women owned businesses have increased.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
We have equal pay laws. We have much improved parental leave and sick pay laws. We have pay equity and investment equity disclosure laws. We have increased wages to the zero so essential childcare workers who also here in California, are the first in the nation to receive retirement benefits.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
And those of you who may have been watching the Olympics. American women dominated those Olympics. We brought home half of the USA's medals. Out of the 126 medals given to American athletes, women received a whopping 67 of them. We can thank title ix for getting us to that point.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
Title ix didn't just say, zero, we hope sports and other programs are more equitable. It was a government mandate that our educational and other institutions put as much effort and dollars into athletics and other programs for women as is done for men. And we are reaping those benefits. Women are passing the baton onto the finish line.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
The future is female. I respectfully ask for your aye vote on SCR 168.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Yes. Senator Rubio.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President, ladies and gentlemen of the Senate. Today I rise in strong support of SCR 168, which recognizes women's equality day in California. I would like to thank the Senator from Hayward for bringing this important resolution forward.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
We have made significant strides to empower women, but attacks on our rights and reproductive freedoms continue to persist throughout the country, so our work is not done. Gender inequality is prevalent in many aspects of our lives, especially in the education on academic spaces.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
So it is crucial that we highlight the importance of women in leadership positions, especially these areas. Women must have a seat at the table in order to contribute to California's strong and growing economy.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
We must continue to advocate for stronger protections and opportunities for women and ensure that our progress in the state is not hindered by the efforts across our nation to roll back protections and hold women back. The right to vote, the right to have representation, and the right to lead is foundational to our collective success.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
With that, I respectfully ask for an aye vote. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion or debate on this item hearing? Senator Wahop, would you like to close?
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
I respectfully ask for an aye vote. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Members, this is eligible for unanimous roll call. Is there any objection to applying the unanimous roll call to file item 41? Hearing and seeing no objection. Ayes, 37 knows zero. The measure passes. All right, we're moving back to privileges of the floor. Senator Skinner. Floor George.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
Thank you so much, Mister President. Members, please join me in recognizing Piper Kerman, a resident of my district and the award winning author of Orange is the New Black. Piper is in Sacramento today to join the Legislative Women's Caucus Equality Day reception, which will follow our floor session as equality days.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
We just discussed celebrates the adoption of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. Piper is an appropriate guest speaker for the LWC's event. As a person with a felony conviction, which is the subject of her book.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
In many states, Piper's right to vote would have been forfeited or is forfeited for her lifetime, but not here.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
Piper is best known for having the adaptation of her 2010 book become one of Netflix's number one or first hit shows, and Orange is the New Black is Piper's memoir of serving 13 months at the Federal Correction Institute in Danbury, Connecticut.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
After her release, Piper has been a featured speaker about and has written about the conditions within our us prison system. She's been featured in the New York Times, Huffington Post, on NPR, CB's, and more. She's also provided testimony at congressional hearings.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
She now works as a communication strategist for nonprofit organizations and has just submitted the manuscript for her second book focused on her four years teaching at a men's correctional facility in Ohio. Members, join me in welcoming Piper Kerman.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Welcome to the California State Senate. If other Senators would like a photo, now would be the time. All right, Members, we're moving on with our daily business. We're now at messages from the Governor will be deemed read, messages from the Assembly will be deemed read, reports from committees will be deemed read, and amendments adopted.
- Steven Bradford
Person
And now we're moving on to motions, resolutions, and notices. Without objection, the Senate journals for August 52024 through August 82024 will be approved as corrected by the minutes Clerk. There are four amendments at the death.
- Steven Bradford
Person
They will be deemed adopted Members without objection, Assembly Bill 1470 will be returned to the Assembly now under motions or resolutions recognizing Members who would like to remove an item. Senator Durazzo thank you, Mister President.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
At the request of the author, please pull file item 327, AB 2192 from the consent calendar.
- Steven Bradford
Person
The death will note. Senator Lemongrass thank you.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
At the request of the author, please remove AB 1168 file item a 19 from the inactive file for the purposes of amendments.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. The death will note Senator Rubio thank you, Mister President.
- Susan Rubio
Legislator
At the request of the author, please remove file item 338, AB 2843 Petri Norris to be removed from consent file for the purposes of amendment. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Decibel Note Senator Padilla thank you, Mister President.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Please remove file item a one SB 583 from the enacted file.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you, Senator Wiener thank you, Mister President.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
At the request of the author, please please remove AB 1282 file item a 21 by Assembly Member Lowenthal. Please remove it from the inactive file.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Senator Seyarto.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. At the request of the author, I'd like to remove AB 1862 from the consent calendar and back to third reading for purposes of amending.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Just full note, Senator, what do we have next? Blakespear, please.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. At the request of the author, please. Remove file item 332, AB 2533 from the consent calendar. Thank you, thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
To decibel notes. Senator Ashby.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. At the request of the author, please. Pull file item 328, AB 20318 by assemblymember Papin from the consent calendar.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Okay. Senator Becker.
- Josh Becker
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. I'd like to remove file item 339, AB 2871 Manchine from the consent calendar at the request of the author for purposes of amendment. Thank you, thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
The next decibel note. Senator Glazier.
- Kelly Seyarto
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. At the request of the author, I'd like to ask that Assembly Bill 1913 file item 321 be removed from the consent calendar.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. The decipher note. All right, there's no more items. The motions resolutions will move on this consideration of a daily file. Now second reading file.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
Secretary, please read Senate concurrent Resolution 80. Assembly Bill 3828302152041953 Assembly Concurrent resolution 182 Assembly Bill 19542622832. Thank you. Now moving to unfinished business.
- Steven Bradford
Person
We have five items. We have. First up is file item 23. Senator Wehner, he's prepared.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Secretary, please read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Senate Bill 905 by Senator Wiener, an act relating to crimes.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Wiener.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. President. Colleagues, Senate Bill 905 is back on concurrence. Assembly amendments specify that the value of illegally obtained property possessed by a person within the past two years can be aggregated to determine the value for purposes of a violation under Section Two.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
The bill is sponsored by San Francisco Mayor London Breed and as part of our--the pro tems working together for a Safer California package. Respectfully ask for an aye vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion or debate on this item? Senator Grove.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. President. This bill talks about two criminal offenses related to vehicle burglary, crime and forcibly entering a vehicle plus an additional list of things of unlawful entry, burglary, and the thing that I'm interested in is tampering with a vehicle whether or not the person committed an act of value to exceed $950 in the language. So, question of the author.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Wiener, will you take a question?
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Yes.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
I just want to know if this covers catalytic converters.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Tell me exactly what--can you tell me exactly what language you're referring to? Through the Chair?
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
So the language talks about tampering with the vehicle whether or not the person committed the act where the value of exceeds $950, like taking something from a vehicle, whether it exceeds $950. So a catalytic converter is well above $950 and I just want to know if this bill specifically--
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
I'm sorry. Through the Chair--
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
A catalytic converter.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Which section are you referring to, Senator Grove?
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Subsection. The exact language, if we could.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
Oh, I could get the exact language. I just have it highlighted on a note that I have here under a section of the bill. So I apologize, but I'd be glad to get that for you. The reason why I asked this question--on my own time. Sorry.
- Steven Bradford
Person
On your own time.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
The reason why I asked this question is because if you have a vehicle with a catalytic converter and you take it off of your own vehicle, there's a $10,000 fine. But if someone else takes it off their vehicle, your vehicle, and sells it or gets rid of it or anything like that, there's minimal punishment.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
There's a piece of legislation, 641, in process, but you have to be in possession of nine catalytic converters in order to have any punishment or punitive action in the law. And I'm just curious about that particular piece of equipment on a vehicle because I think that is a huge issue when it comes to, you know, theft.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
Theft. And again, you, as the owner of the vehicle, under California State law, can be punished up to $10,000 for taking one of those off of your own vehicle, but if somebody else steals it, you have to be in possession of nine. And I think it's just a silly law and I was hoping that the author could tell me that is included in this because it would exceed $950, which is in the language of the bill. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion or debate on this item? Seeing no more microphones, Senator Wiener, would you like to close?
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Thank you very much, Mr. President. Colleagues, this bill is about the breaking into and theft from vehicles, which has been a growing, significant problem, I know, in San Francisco and many other jurisdictions.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
First and foremost, it closes a loophole where the DA has had to prove not just that person broke into the car, but that all the doors were locked. This removes that ridiculous loophole that has undermined prosecutions, and I respectfully ask for an aye vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Members, this is eligible for unanimous roll call. Is there any objection to using the unanimous roll call on this item? There is. All right. Mr. Secretary, please call the roll.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Steven Bradford
Person
Please call the absent members.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Steven Bradford
Person
Ayes: 36; noes: zero on the occurrence of amendments. Ayes: 36; noes: zero on the item. Measure passes. Now moving on to File Item 24: Senator Wahab. She's prepared.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Secretary, you may read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Senate Bill 982 by Senator Wahab, an act relating to crimes.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Wahab.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
Thank you. Colleagues and members of the public, I rise today to present SB 982, which is back from--for concurrence, I should say. This bill simply eliminates the January 1st, 2026 sunset to make the crime of organized retail theft permanent.
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
SB 982 is part of the Senate's bipartisan, Safer California Package and the Governor's Retail Theft Package, which will keep our communities safe and protect our businesses. I respectfully ask for an aye vote. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion or debate? Senator Niello.
- Roger Niello
Legislator
Thank you, Mr. President. I was originally a joint author of this bill, as I had introduced a similar bill, but I pulled off when certain amendments were added to that bill back in June. It has now been restored to its original form, and I do support the bill, and I urge an aye vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion or debate? Hearing and seeing none, Senator Wahab, would you like to close?
- Aisha Wahab
Legislator
Thank you. I respectfully ask for an aye vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Members, this is eligible for unanimous roll call. Is there any objection to applying the unanimous roll call on this item? Hearing and seeing none, ayes: 37; noes: zero on the concurrence. Ayes: 37; no: zero on the measure. Now moving on to File Item 27: Senator Skinner.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
She is prepared. Secretary, you may read Senate Bill 1144 by Senator Skinner. Inaccurate. Lane to business. Senator Skinner.
- Nancy Skinner
Person
Thank you very much. SB 1144 increases regulations for online marketplaces to prevent the sale of stolen goods. I am taking it up for conference votes from the technical amendments that were made in the Assembly, and I respectfully ask for your. I vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion? Debate on this item hearing t, none. This, too, is eligible for unanimous roll call. No, I'm sorry, we need a roll call on this one. Secretary, please call the roll.
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
[Roll call]
- Unidentified Speaker
Person
[Roll call]
- Steven Bradford
Person
Ayes, 37. Nos, zero. Amendments are concurred. I's 37 measure passes. Now moving on to file item 28 by Senator Minn. He is prepared.
- Steven Bradford
Person
He is prepared. Secretary, you may read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Senate Bill 1242 by Senator Min, an act relating to crimes.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Min.
- Dave Min
Person
Thank you, Mr. President. Assembly amendments to SB 1242 made no substantive changes. I respectfully ask for your aye vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Any further discussion or debate on this item? Hearing and seeing none, this is eligible for unanimous roll call. Is there any objection to applying unanimous roll call? There is an objection. Secretary, please call the roll on File Item 28.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Min moves the call. Now moving on to File Item 32 by Senator Newman. He is prepared. Secretary, you may read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Senate Bill 1416 by Senator Newman, an act relating to crimes.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Senator Newman, the floor is yours.
- Josh Newman
Person
Thank you, Mr. President. Members, I rise to present SB 1416, which is back on concurrence, which will impose a set of escalating enhancements for middlemen involved in organized retail theft. Amendments taken in the Assembly add a five-year sunset to the bill. I respectfully ask your aye vote today.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion or debate on this item? Hearing and seeing none, this is eligible for unanimous roll call. Is there any objection? We--all right, we have objection.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Yes, this is eligible for unanimous roll call. Is there any objection to applying unanimous roll call to File Item 32? Hearing and seeing none...we do. We do have an objection. Secretary, please call the roll. We do have an objection.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Caroline Menjivar
Legislator
Please call the absent members.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Caroline Menjivar
Legislator
Ayes: 36; no: zero. Assembly amendment: noes: one. Assembly amendments are concurred in. Now moving on to Senate Third Reading. We have one item, Item 45 by Senator Bradford. He is ready to go.
- Caroline Menjivar
Legislator
Secretary, please read.
- Reading Clerk
Person
Senate Resolution 110 by Senator Bradford, relative to Port Chicago 80th Anniversary.
- Caroline Menjivar
Legislator
Senator Bradford.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you, Madam President. SR 110, which recognizes this year as the 80th anniversary of Port Chicago Naval Magazine disaster. 80 years ago on July 17th, 1944, the deadliest homefront disaster of World War II occurred at Port Chicago Naval Magazine in Concord, California, when an explosion at the facility killed or wounded 710 people.
- Steven Bradford
Person
32--I mean--320 individuals, the immediate proximity of the blast were killed instantly. African Americans comprised nearly two-thirds of those killed. At the time, the Navy barred African American sailors from nearly all seagoing branches, which meant that most of the Navy's ordnance battalions here at home were comprised of African American enlisted personnel.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Many of those officers stationed at Port Chicago were older reservists recalled to active duty or junior officers who had little or no training in minimal leadership experience, and yet, the Navy's report on the explosion relied on racist stereotypes of the time to imply that African American enlisted personnels had been difficult to train and slower in their operations, but raised no questions regarding the--concerning the White officer's leadership responsibilities.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Following the disaster, the surviving personnel were transferred to Port Chicago to the Mare Island Naval Weapons Station where they were again assigned to ordinance loading duties under the same conditions at Port Chicago. On August 9th, 258 of the sailors at Mare Island refused to carry out their duties unless safety conditions were improved.
- Steven Bradford
Person
The next day, 208 sailors who returned to duty received court martials for refusing--for their refusal to obey orders and were sentenced to forfeit of three months pay. But 50 sailors, the Port Chicago 50, continued to protest their duties and were charged with disobedience of a lawful order and mutiny, and they were sentenced to eight to 15 years of confinement and received dishonorable discharge from the military.
- Steven Bradford
Person
For over 50 years, the Port Chicago 50 and their descendants repeatedly appealed to Congress and the Navy to have their names and records cleared. It wasn't until December 1999 that Freddie Meeks, at the time thought to be the last surviving member of the Port Chicago 50, received a presidential pardon.
- Steven Bradford
Person
The California Legislature has passed numerous resolutions calling for these men to be exonerated, including previous efforts led by Senator from Miranda, Senator Glazer, and former Senator, Senator Rod Wright. Last month, on July 17th, the Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro, exonerated the court martial verdicts for all the sailors convicted.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Secretary Del Toro said that this action was simply the right thing to do based on the evidence we discovered. The Port Chicago 50 and the hundreds who stood with them are no longer with us, but their stories live on, and a testament to their enduring power to encourage and their unwavering pursuit for justice.
- Steven Bradford
Person
SR 110 recognizes the 80-year anniversary of this tragedy and injustice and commends the Secretary of the Navy for exonerating the sailors wrongfully convicted of mutiny and taking action to restore their honor and justice to the sailors and their family.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Unfortunately, as we stand here today, none of the families of these sailors have ever been compensated or their benefits ever restored where their families could take advantage of the GI Bill, but I stand here today asking us to remember the sacrifice and ask for an aye vote on SR 110.
- Caroline Menjivar
Legislator
Thank you so much, Senator. Seeing no further discussion or debate, this item is eligible for unanimous roll call. Any objection? Ayes: 36; noes: zero. The resolution passes. Moving--I stand corrected. Senator Bradford moves a call. We have--on File Item 45, we are going to be doing a roll call. Secretary, please call the roll.
- Reading Clerk
Person
[Roll Call].
- Steven Bradford
Person
Please call the absent members. All right. Senator Bradford moves the call. All right, members, now we're moving on to Assembly Third Reading. We have one item, File Item 150: Senator Wiener. He is prepared.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Secretary, you may read. Assembly Bill 2867 by Assemblymember Gabriel enact relating to civil actions and declaring the urgency thereof to take effect immediately. Senator Wiener.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. Colleagues, I rise to present Assembly Bill 2867 on behalf of Assemblymember Gabriel, a Bill that will help California residents recover art and other personal properties stolen from them during the Holocaust or other acts of persecution. AB 2867 builds on previous California law which aims to assist California residents in recovering stolen property.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Unfortunately, a recent 9th Circuit Court of Appeals decision failed a family of Holocaust survivors, the Casserer family, and proves that more must be done to ensure Californians don't lose their rights due to misapplication of legal technicalities in this case. Choice of law.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
The Attorney General Banta and former Attorney General Harris both have argued that California law should apply to cases like this one. AB 2867 will do just that. It will mandate that California law must apply in these lawsuits. AB 2867 has bipartisan support and no known opposition. It's sponsored by the lieutenant Governor.
- Scott Wiener
Legislator
Respectfully ask for an aye vote any.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Further discussion or debate. Senator Grove.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
Thank you, Madam President. I just. Or, excuse me, Mister President, I just briefly rise in support of AB 2867 and thank the author and the floor jockey for bringing it forth. As far as the legislative Jewish caucus is concerned, this is a very important Bill.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
And, you know, I've often shared on this floor that my dad was a World War two medic and he went into Auschwitz and Birkenau, and a lot of the things that they found in these camps that belong to the Jewish families that may not ever get returned.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
But for California to take a leading role in making sure that these special mementos or pieces of art or family belongings be returned to those in the Holocaust would be extremely extraordinary effort on California's part. And respectfully asked for an I vote.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Any further discussion? Debate on this item. Seeing no microphones, Senator winner, you may close. Respectfully ask for an aye vote. Members, this is eligible for you. All right, well, it's just. All right. And we're gonna call the roll. Secretary, please call the roll and file item 150.
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll call]
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll call]
- Steven Bradford
Person
Ayes 37, nos zero on the urgency. Ayes 37, nos zero on the measure. Measure passes now, Members, we're going to lift calls on those outstanding items. First up is file item 28. Please call the APPC Members.
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll call]
- Steven Bradford
Person
Ayes 36, nos zero. Amendments are concurred in now. Moving on to file item 45. Please call the APPCN Members.
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll call]
- Steven Bradford
Person
Please call the OPC Members one more time. Ayes 37, nos zero. The measure passes now, Members, we're moving on to the consent calendar now. It's time. If any Member would like to remove an item from the consent calendar, we would ask you to do it now. Hearing and seeing none.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Secretary, please read the consent calendar. Assembly Bill 30572573. Senate Concurrent Resolution 159.
- Committee Secretary
Person
Assembly Bill 453, 672, 1170, 1239, 1828, 1861, 1863, 1879, 1934, 2067, 2117, 2130, 2143, 2324, 2350, 2422, 2567, 2631, 2636, 2637, 2690, 2900, 2939, 2962, 2988, 2998, 307, 3062, 3063, 3116, 3235, 3278, 3290. Please call the roll on the consent calendar.
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll call]
- Committee Secretary
Person
[Roll call]
- Steven Bradford
Person
Hamburg ayes 37 noes zero. The consent calendar is approved now. Members, returning to motions and resolutions. Now is the time for adjourn and memories. We have two adjournments. First up is Senator Atkins.
- Toni Atkins
Person
Thank you, Mister President. Colleagues, I rise today to adjourn in memory of Rebecca Becca Taylor, chair of the San Diego County Democratic Party. She died on July 172024 at the very young age of 40. Becca was born September 101983 in Idaho Falls, Idaho, the daughter of Timothy James and Patrice Cook.
- Toni Atkins
Person
Her father was studying in the Navy nuclear power program and her mother worked in the home while Becca grew up a true military brat, spending parts of her childhood in multiple states across the country, including Idaho, South Carolina, Texas, California and Virginia. She predominantly grew up in Texas and she was the oldest of six siblings.
- Toni Atkins
Person
She attended Allen High School in Allen, Texas and enrolled in Virginia Tech in 2001. In 2004, she joined the Navy, where she worked as an aviation electrician. She was deployed to Afghanistan and Germany during Operation Enduring Freedom. She served at Bragam Airfield, where in 2007 a suicide attack killed nearly two dozen people.
- Toni Atkins
Person
After leaving the military, she enrolled in San Diego State University, where she received the Outstanding Undergraduate award at the College of Health and Human Services in 2009. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in gerontology in 2011 and a master's of science in gerontology in 2013 from San Diego State University.
- Toni Atkins
Person
As an undergraduate, she also studied abroad in England and at the University of Oxford, taking classes in political science. Her passions included helping and advocating for veterans, seniors, sexual assault survivors. She was actively involved in social justice causes and progressive politics.
- Toni Atkins
Person
Her work with seniors included serving in various capacities at Casa Del Oro Adult Day Healthcare center, the senior wellness program at Balboa Naval Hospital, serving seniors in San Diego, the Rose of Poway, the Belmont Village Memory Care Unit in Poway, and the Independent Transportation Network of Greater San Diego.
- Toni Atkins
Person
She also volunteered her time at the San Diego Rapid Response Network's migrant shelter, the Interfaith Center for Worker justice of San Diego, county, the Cannabis Chamber of Commerce, and the Ocean Beach Town Council.
- Toni Atkins
Person
I got to know Becca through her political advocacy and of course, she worked as a field organizer for numerous campaigns throughout San Diego County and also at her time during her leadership at the Ocean Beach Town Council, she was a Member of the Young Democrats of America, the Veterans Caucus of the California Democratic Party, the Veterans Democratic Club of San Diego, the Blue Dream Democratic Club, the Point Loma, and Ocean Beach Democrats, and run, women run.
- Toni Atkins
Person
She became active in the San Diego County Democratic Party, serving as Vice Chair for the metro west area before becoming county party chair in 2022. She skillfully helped the county navigate the county party, excuse me, navigate through some very challenging issues. Becca's other passion was riding her Harley Davidson, including on trips across the western states.
- Toni Atkins
Person
And tragically, her life was cut short by fatal injuries from a motorcycle accident in Nevada last month. Even in her passing, she continued to help others through organ donation.
- Toni Atkins
Person
Becca is survived by her father and her stepmother, Timothy and Amy Cook in Virginia her mother and her stepfather, Patrice and Don Frazier in Pennsylvania her sisters, Brandy Waters, Holly Edwards and Caitlin cook her brothers, Thomas Cook and Dylan Cook three nephews, two nieces, and her very large extended family of friends and associates.
- Toni Atkins
Person
Becca was known for her perpetual smile, her relentless energy, strategic and dynamic leadership, her enduring optimism, idealism and devotion. She had an incredible impact on the San Diego community in so many ways. May she rest in peace and power.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Senator Padilla, on this adjournment.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Thank you very much, Mister President and colleagues, and I rise to add my thoughts and voice as we adjourn in the memory of my friend Becca Taylor. She was a leader in every sense of the word. Principled, relentless, fiercely passionate about all of the causes that she believed in and dedicated herself to.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
And that's been noted, especially to issues dealing with seniors and fellow veterans. Others have mentioned it, but the first thing you always noticed about Becca was her smile. It was persistent. It was uplifting. There was a power to her presence, something everyone could feel, a positive energy even in the face of challenge.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
Her example would inspire a room, and our community has a brighter future thanks to her advocacy. She was humble, fun, optimistic, and a fierce advocate for her community, her party, and her country. Like so many of the examples she had set through her all too short life, when she was needed, Becca stepped up.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
I was very fortunate to know her, to work with her and to call her my friend. Her commitments to the people of San Diego, the values she championed in her inner light, will be sorely missed but never forgotten. I certainly will never forget her rest in power.
- Steve Padilla
Legislator
My sister colleagues, for these and all other reasons have been mentioned. I also ask the Senate adjourn in her memory. Thank you, Senator Blakespear.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. I rise today to add my voice to the two good Senators from San Diego in paying tribute to Becca Taylor. She was the chair of the San Diego County party and died tragically in an accident while riding her beloved Harley Davidson motorcycle in Nevada on July 17 at the age of 40.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
Becca was a young, vibrant, intelligent woman who truly lit up a room with her energy and her smile. I came to know her as the chair of the San Diego party and to admire her as a woman who rose to challenges with a can do attitude and a passionate commitment to advocating for causes she believed in.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
As a young woman, Becca moved frequently as the eldest of six siblings in a military family. This may have contributed to her ability to adapt to new circumstances and the confidence to know that she could succeed at whatever challenge came her way. She had no trouble qualifying for admission to a University in Virginia.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
But when she realized that she needed more time to find her path in life, she joined the navy. The experience of being a young woman and serving abroad in Afghanistan and Germany strengthened Becca's understanding of herself and her commitment to living a meaningful life.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
She arrived in San Diego as a young veteran, determined to finish her education and set out on a path of Independence. She discovered an affinity for serving seniors, which influenced her decision to get her masters of science in gerontology in 2013 from San Diego State University.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
But the remarkable thing about Becca was that there were no bounds to her desire to engage in activities that she believed in, not just to do a job. She was dedicated to making that difference. This led her to work on numerous campaigns for candidates who shared her values and priorities.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
She took on leadership roles in the Democratic Party in support of women veterans and the LGBTQ community. She served on the town council in her beloved community of Ocean Beach, where she was thrilled to purchase her first home.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
She worked with refugees and victims of sexual assault with the same big hearted compassion that guided her through life, becoming the chair of the San Diego County Democratic Party at a difficult time, Becca exerted calm, competent leadership to steady the ship and set a course for success.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
Without missing a beat, she stepped into the roles of spokesperson, meeting, presider, and fundraiser. She steered the organization through Covid Zoom meetings and annual awards dinners. Becca lived her life with flair, joy, determination, and the ability to get along with literally everyone.
- Catherine Blakespear
Legislator
We will all miss her joyous spirit and remember her as a friend, a leader, and a confident young woman who lived her life to the fullest. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. Our deepest condolences to Miss Taylor. We ask that you bring her name forward so she can be properly memorialized. Next up is Senator Gonzalez for an adjournment memory.
- Lena Gonzalez
Legislator
Senator Gonzalez thank you, Mister President and Members. I rise today to adjourn in the honor of former Long Beach City manager Jerry Miller. Born in 1949, Miller moved with his family to Long beach from San Pedro in 1970.
- Lena Gonzalez
Legislator
He served in the army during the Vietnam War and graduated from Cal State Long beach with degrees in community clinical psychology as well as philosophy. Miller was sworn into the city's top non elected post in 2003 after emerging from a field of 31 candidates across 11 states.
- Lena Gonzalez
Legislator
And as a result of Miller's perseverance, the city had completely redeveloped the naval property and fostered a downtime revitalization. In addition, Miller led the city out of the worst financial crisis to date, engaging thousands of residents, businesses, and employees in a plan designed to address a $100 million budget shortfall.
- Lena Gonzalez
Legislator
He retired in 2007 after 35 years with the city, but he still received numerous awards, including distinguished alumnus at Cal State Long Beach, a Distinguished Citizen of the year award with the Boy Scouts, the Freedom Fund award with the NAACP Long Beach branch, and the President's Award from the American Society for Public Administration, as well as many awards from the California Chamber of Commerce.
- Lena Gonzalez
Legislator
He is survived by his wife, Gail Wassell, their son, Michael Miller, their daughter, Anna Miller Miller's brothers, David and Carl Zettel, and Miller's sister, Joanne Dillahunty. I respectfully ask that we would adjourn in his memory. Thank you.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Thank you. We ask that you bring her name forward. So his name's Ford. I'm sorry. So he can be properly memorialized. If there's no further business of Senator Limon. I am so sorry, Senator Limon.
- Monique Limón
Legislator
Thank you. I rise today to adjourn in memory of Doctor Martin Shapiro, known as Marty by friends and families. Marty passed away peacefully in his Galita home on February 22.
- Steven Bradford
Person
If there's no other business, Senator Grove, the dust is clear.
- Shannon Grove
Legislator
Thank you, Mister President. Thank you, Mister President. Great work today, colleagues. Lots of stuff that got off this floor. And I'm sure we'll be heading to the governor's desk. The next floor session is scheduled for Thursday, August 152024 at 09:00 a.m. I. Look forward to seeing your all happy faces on Thursday.
- Steven Bradford
Person
Members of Senators adjourned. Will reconvene on Thursday, August 15, at 09:00 a.m.
Committee Action:Passed
Previous bill discussion: August 8, 2024
Speakers
Legislator