Assembly Floor

Assembly is now in session. Assemblymember Ta notices the absence of a quorum. Sergeant arms will prepare the chamber. Bring in the absent members. Clerk will call the roll.

[Roll Call]. Mr. Speaker.

Good morning, Mr. Speaker. Members and guests, let us pray. Raise your hands. Breathe in deep. Get yourself a new pair of boots, a shiny buckle and a wide brimmed hat. And sing praise as we enter the Cowboy Carter era. Ask yourself as queen bee, ask us all. Can we stand for something?

Now is not the time to face the wind, my friends. Now ain't the time to pretend. Now is the time to let love in together. Can we stand, Members, now is not the time for alligator tears. You see, just like Beyonce. My family lived and died in America. Good old USA.

A whole lot of red in that white and blue. History can't be erased. You looking for a new America? Are you tired? Work a time and a half for half the pay. I just pray that we don't crash because I keep my Bible on the dash. We gotta keep the faith, Members.

Keep the faith, California, keep the faith. And. And the Members say Amen.

We ask our guests and visitors to remain standing and to join us in the flag salute. Assembly Member Ransom will lead us in the pledge of Allegiance.

Please place your hand over your heart and join me in the pledge. Ready? Begin.

I pledge allegiance of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all.

May be seated. To our guests and visitors today. State law prohibits persons in the gallery from interfering with legislative proceedings or disrupting the orderly conduct of official business. Persons disrupting legislative proceedings are subject to a removal, arrest or other appropriate legal remedies.

Reading of the previous day's Journal Assembly Chamber Sacramento Tuesday, February 112025 the Assembly met at 7:00am The Honorable Tree Ta Assembly Member, 70th District Presid Curry moves and Mr.

Flora seconds that the reading of the previous day's journal be dispensed with presentations and petitions. There are none. Introductions and references of bills will be deferred. Reports of committees will be deemed read and amendments deemed adopted. Messages from the Governor? There are none. Messages from the Senate? There are none.

Moving on to motions and resolutions, the absences for the day will be deemed read and printed in the journal. Majority leader Aguiar-Curry, you are recognized for your procedural motions.

Good morning, Mr. Speaker. I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 45.5 to allow Assembly Members Harbidian, Michelle Rodriguez and Stefani to speak on adjournment in memory today.

Without objection, I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly rule 118A to allow Assembly Member Brian to have guests on the floor for Black History Month, to allow Assembly Member Ransom to have a guest seated at her desk and for Assembly Members Schiavo and Soria to have guests in the rear of the chamber today.

Without objection.

Pursuant to Assembly Rule 96, I request unanimous consent to re refer AB238HARBIN from the Judiciary Committee to the Banking and Finance Committee, then back to the Judiciary Committee.

Without objection, I request unanimous consent to send Assembly Rule 56 to allow Judiciary Committee to notice AB238 Herbidian for the hearing on Tuesday, March 4, pending re referral from the Banking and Finance Committee.

Without objection. Such shall be the order. Assembly Member Flora, you are recognized. Thank you, Mr. Flora. Assembly Member Gonzalez, you are recognized. I thank you, Assemblymember Gonzalez. We apologize for the technical difficulties. Assemblymember Gonzalez has moved to suspend the Constitution and the House rules. This motion requires a second. Is there a second? Seconded by Assemblymember Demaio?

Members, this motion that is before us is to suspend the Constitution requiring three readings by Assembly Bill 12 to spend this rule to take up this Bill without reference to file. This motion requires 54 votes and is not debatable. To be perfectly clear, you are not voting on AB12 or the merits of AB12.

You are simply voting on whether or not we should bypass the Constitution and bypass the public input process where AB12 would be heard in Committee, to instead bring it on the floor without public input. Again, this motion requires 54 votes and is not debatable. Clerk will open the roll. Assembly Member Gallagher is asking for a I vote.

Assemblymember Gallagher is asking for an I vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. Clerk will close the roll and tally the votes. Ayes 16, noes 37. The motion to suspend the Constitution fails. Moving on to business on the daily file.

It's it.

Members, we will now move on to the Assembly observance of Black History Month. Without objection, we will now take up file item 5, Assembly Concurrent Resolution 30, Jackson.

The Clerk will read Assembly Concurrent Resolution 30 by Assemblymember Jackson and others relative to Black History Month.

Assembly Jackson, you may open on the measure.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Today we gather in the halls of California's power to honor the legacy of Black history. A history that is not separate from American history, but core to its very foundation. The origins of Black History Month can be traced back to 1915, when historian Carter G. Woodson and minister Jesse E.

Moreland founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History. This organization was dedicated to researching and promoting achievements by Black Americans and other peoples of African descent. In 1926, this organization sponsored the first National Negro History Week, choosing the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.

This event inspired schools and communities nationwide to organize local celebrations, establish history clubs, and host performances and lectures. By the late 1960s, thanks in part to the Civil Rights movement and a growing awareness of black identity, Negro History Week had evolved into Black History Month on many college campuses.

In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month, calling upon the public to honor the accomplishments of Black Americans throughout history. Today, Black History Month is celebrated in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, with each country dedicating a month to recognizing the contributions and legacy of African Americans and other people of African descent.

The celebration includes events at public schools, universities, museums, and communities that honor the achievements and hardships of historical and contemporary figures. Black History Month is the story of resilience woven into the fabric of democracy. The story of brilliance that has shaped the course of industry, education, art, and governance.

The story of struggle and triumph that has continuously forced this nation to rise closer to the ideals it professes. Madam Speaker, the California Legislative Black Caucus asks our colleagues to join us in recognizing Black History Month.

Thank you, Assemblymember Jackson. Assemblymember Elhawary, you're recognized.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today on behalf of the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus and as a principal co author in support of ACR 30 commemorating Black History Month. Today we honor the lives, contributions and voices of the black community in our nation's past, present and future, many of whom fought for the rights we have today.

We seek to honor black leaders whose excellence and drive have bent the moral arc of the universe toward justice. From the inception of the Stonewall Uprising led by Marsha P.

Johnson, to the push for national civil and voting rights orchestrated by Bayard Rustin, and leading the Global Fight Against HIV and AIDS by Phil Wilson, we have none other to thank than those Black LGBTQ trailblazers who have stood firm in their intersectional identities as they have led the charge to seek true equality and justice for all.

While there are those who are quite literally erasing black history through book bans and the removal of references to Black transgender leaders from the Stonewall National Monument website, we must continue to fight for representation and keep their history Alive.

On behalf of the LGBTQ Caucus, I am proud to join my fellow Members of the California Legislative Black Caucus for bringing forth this important resolution. Thank you, speaker and Members, I respectfully ask for your. I vote on ACR 30.

Thank you, Assemblymember El Hoary. Assemblymember Ramos, you are recognized.

Well, thank you, Madam Speaker. Today I rise as representing the Latino Legislative Caucus and the Native American Legislative Caucus. It's my pleasure to rise in strong support of ACR 30, which recognizes February 2025 as Black history Month.

This month is a time to reflect on the incredible contributions Californians, African American community throughout the history of our state and nation have proved and provided a guiding beacon for us.

We honor their resilience and recognize the impact of black culture, innovation, leadership in guiding our state and reshaping communities and reshaping the dialogue that goes on in the State of California. Our communities, our communities have stood side by side throughout history to ensure that we stand together, locking arms, overcoming injustices to each and every one of us.

We stood together during the Civil Rights. We stood together during Dr. Martin Luther King. We stood together with Cesar Chavez and those who fought to ensure that that Native Americans have a right and a seat at the table in the State of California. But let's not be fooled. It's not just something of the past.

This has happened now and continues to happen now. Diversity and equity and inclusion still needs to move forward. We stand together and in 1998, we marched across those bridges right here in Sacramento with Jesse Jackson to continue to bring rights forward for Native American people.

And still today, the need, the need for an area to move forward with a resilient voice in moving forward with all of our people, making sure that we stand together to ensure that truth and justice continues to move forward in the State of California.

For we know that an injustice or a right denied to one is an injustice to all. We stand side by side with our brothers and sisters to make sure that diversity and inclusion still happens in 2025. Thank you so much.

zero, thank you, Assembly Member Ramos, Assembly Member Lee, you are recognized.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. On behalf of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus, I rise in support of ACR 30 to recognize February 2025 as Black History Month. Black History Month pays tribute to the triumphs and struggles of the African American community. Since 1976, every U.S.

President has officially recognized the month of February as Black History Month. This is a time to reflect on the profound contributions Black Americans who have shaped our history, our society and our future.

From the abolition of slavery to the civil rights movement, and from the arts to politics, Black Americans have been at the forefront of progress, justice, and equality. Their sacrifices, resilience and triumphs continue to inspire us. Today, Black History Month isn't just about remembering the past. It's about. It's about looking towards the future.

It's about acknowledging the ongoing struggles for racial equality and social justice and committing ourselves to work that still remains. It's about recognizing that the fight for equality is ongoing. And in education, in healthcare, in economic opportunity and the criminal justice system.

From the cultural impacts of black community to its leadership in politics, business, social movements, we stand on the shoulder of giants. People like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Harriet Tubman, Maya Angelou, and countless others have paved the way for more just and equal society.

So as we celebrate Black History Month today, let us not only celebrate the history, but also reaffirm our commitment to future, where the dream, where every room can be diverse, inclusive and equitable is realized. I ask that you join me in support of ACR 30.

Thank you, Assemblymember Lee. Assemblymember Gabriel, you are recognized.

Thank you very much. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the Jewish Caucus to lend my voice to the chorus of those who rise in support of ACR 30 to designate the month of February as Black History Month.

And I want to thank our colleague from Moreno Valley for bringing forward this important resolution and thank our colleagues in the Legislative Black Caucus for having the foresight and the wisdom to have us pause and honor the incredible contributions of the black community in the United States and here in the State of California.

And as our colleague mentioned, to understand how profoundly American history has been shaped by the struggles and the contributions of black Americans and how essential it is for all of us, for all of our children, to learn black history.

I think one of the things that's important that we recognize today is that we honor the contributions of the people that have been discussed here today. These are contributions that have benefited not only the African American community here in the United States. They have benefited all Americans and all Californians.

And each of us who is privileged to stand in this room and do the work that we do stands on the shoulders of those who we recognize. During Black History Month, Black Americans have shaped arts, culture, medicine, science, education, business, every realm of life.

But they have also profoundly been at the center of so many movements, not only for racial justice, but for social justice and economic justice, justice that has again benefited so many Californians from every walk of life.

And our colleague from Los Angeles mentioned the work that Folks have done to bend the moral arc of the universe so that it bends towards justice. And I want to recognize that the Legislative Black Caucus has in many ways been at the forefront of that. As one of the oldest ethnic caucuses in the country.

The work that they have done, that Members of this body have done to spearhead that movement and continue to do to spearhead that movement is something that I think is appropriate that we stop and appreciate today because we have colleagues among us that are building on that tremendous legacy, the Jewish community.

We have always felt a deep sense of kinship and allyship and solidarity with the black community as our colleague talked about their profound resilience, their passion for justice, their willingness to stand up and speak truth to power, to work to change the status quo. That is something that has inspired countless Jewish Americans.

And this sense of kinship and solidarity and allyship really found expression during the civil rights movement. But we understand that, as was mentioned, that the challenges of this moment, as we think about black history and reflect on what has been passed, that we also.

It's appropriate to think on the challenges that are now, not just the challenges in the future, the challenges of this very moment that call upon us to draw strength from black history and to move forward. And our caucus is proud to stand in solidarity with the Legislative Black Caucus.

We are proud to share in this recognition of their pursuit of excellence, their passion for justice. And we lend our voices to the chorus and respecting and respectfully request a strong. I vote on ACR 30.

Thank you, Assembly Member Gabriel. Assembly Member Sharp-Collins, you are recognized.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. Today I rise on behalf of the Legislative Women's Caucus in support of ACR 30 and also as a proud co author with the Legislative Black Caucus. It is an honor to stand before you today as we celebrate. You guys have to take me for this moment because there's a lot going on today.

There's a lot going on in this world. But I am honored to stand before you today as we celebrate Black History Month, a time to reflect, acknowledge and respect the immense contributions of black Americans.

I want to focus today on the full breadth of black history, as black history does not begin with slavery or end with the Civil Rights Movement. As a college adjunct Professor in Africana studies, I understand that Black history defies confinement to the single narrative.

Instead, it courses through the very fabric of the American experience, extending its profound influence across global history as a multifaceted tapestry of resilience, innovation, and cultural influence. Out of the countless pivotal individuals who has helped to shape who we are today.

I want to highlight a few that are pinnacle to the recognition of Black History Month, beginning with Maria Stewart. She was one of the earliest black women to speak publicly to a mixed audience on issues of race and gender in the 19th century and the first known American woman to lecture on the abolitionist movement.

Stewart challenged both white supremacy and sexism. She advocated for education, self sufficiency and equal rights for black people. Her work not only laid the groundwork for black feminist thought, but also inspired generations of leaders. Leaders such as Isabella Bumphrey, who we know as the Journal of Truth, whose name means traveler for Truth.

She became one of the most powerful advocates for human rights and also women's rights leaders such as Ida B. Wells Barnett, who was an investigative journalist, sociologist, educator who dedicated her career to combating prejudice and violence and advocating for African American equality, especially that of women.

As we celebrate Black History Month, it is imperative that we acknowledge the way in which we study the works of African and African American people and the diaspora through Afrocentric thought. On this day, we honor scholars such as Dr. Malathe Asante, who was the founder of Afrocentricity, a theory that emphasizes African culture, history and values.

His theory has empowered generations to reclaim their identity and challenge the Eurocentric narrative that have too often dominated the telling of our history. One of the most influential scholars in this movement was Sheikh ATI Diyapi.

His work challenged the prevailing Eurocentric narratives that sought to separate ancient Kemen, who a lot of us know as Egypt, from the rest of Africa. His research affirmed the undeniable contributions of black Africans to the world, history, science and culture. I got one more for you. Another one is Dr.

John Henry Clark, a Pan Africanist American writer, historian, Professor who dedicated his life to correcting historical falsehoods and restoring Africa's rightful place in global history. His work confronted the distortions that has been perpetuated by Eurocentric thought and sparked a movement that once again inspired black people to reclaim their heritage.

Clark's teaching remind us that the struggle for historical truth is inseparable from the struggle for social justice. Diop and Clark asserted that Kemet, once again known as Egypt, was an African civilization when prevailing belief sought to separate the two, given the same contributions of ancient Egypt to humanity.

By eliminating this divide, we better understand black history as a global and impactful, spanning continents and centuries through the foundation of humanity itself. So we learned that black history is woven into all aspects of the world cultural, scientific, but also the intellectual achievements.

So as Truth, Wells, Stewart, Assante, Diop and Clark work to remind us that the struggle for dignity and self determination is as much as remembering our past as it is about shaping and controlling our future.

So I want to conclude by saying that I stand here as a testament to the achievements, the resilience and determination of my people. And what we want and what we represent, what we endure and continue to endure, is a part of the American story. Black history is not just a month to so many.

I'm black 365 days a year, and I say this because I stand here as a proud Black woman. For as long as I am Black, I am historic. On behalf of the California Women's Caucus, I strongly ask for your I vote for this resolution.

Thank you, Assemblymember Sharp-Collins. Assemblymember Gonzalez, you are recognized.

I rise in support of ACR 30. Today we gather to honor and celebrate the resilience, strength and profound contributions of Black people throughout history, especially focusing on on the often overlooked but one that I grew up around the Afro Latino community.

This intersection of Black and Latino histories represents not just the blending of cultures, but also the triumph of unity, perseverance and shared struggle in the face of adversity. Black history is not confined to a month or a single narrative. It is a living, breathing testament to the relentless pursuit of freedom, justice and equality.

From the vast contributions to science, art, music and politics, Black people have shaped the world in ways that extend far beyond the boundaries of time, geography. The Afro Latino experience, though distinct, is intricately linked to the history of blackness. The story of Afro Latinos is one that spans continents, from the heart of Africa to the Americas.

Enslaved Africans brought their cultures, languages and spirituality with them across the Atlantic to the Caribbean, South America, Central America, where they combined and evolved with indigenous and European influences, creating unique and vibrant identities.

Countries like Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Brazil, Colombia and many others are home to Afro Latino populations whose heritage is woven into the fabric of these nations.

Afro Latinos have contributed greatly to the cultural richness we see today in music with the rhythms of Salsa, merengue and reggaeton, in art, through literature, painting and dance, and in political movements fighting for social justice and equality.

Yet despite the deep rooted legacy, Afro Latinos have often faced the dual challenges of racial discrimination and the erasure of their cultural heritage both within the Latino community and the larger global society. This brings us to the timeless message that is central to both Black and Afro Latino experience.

A message that transcends borders and echoes across every corner of the world is the call to love thy neighbor as thyself in the Bible we find this powerful commandment in the Book of Matthew.

In Chapter 22 of verses 37 and 39, Jesus replied, Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it, love your neighbor as yourself.

This call to love one another is not just a spiritual principle, but a call to action. It is a reminder that we are all interconnected, that the struggles of one are the struggles of all.

When we acknowledge and honor the humanity and dignity of every person, regardless of the race, ethnicity or background, we fulfill the higher calling of love. As we reflect on the journey of black and Afro Latino communities, let us remember that history is not just about the past, but about how we shape the future.

By embracing each other's differences, lifting each other up and living out the commandment to love our neighbors, we ensure that the legacies of those who have come before us, those who fought for freedom, justice and equality, live on in our daily actions.

Thank you, Assemblymember Gonzalez. Assemblymember Bryan, you are recognized.

Thank you. Madam Speaker and colleagues especially want to thank my colleague from Indio for his cross aisle remarks. Every Black History Month, I find myself thinking about something different. There's so much about us that's beautiful, forgotten, hidden or purposefully erased.

I thought about what my colleague from Moreno Valley said about Black History Month being observed by every President going back to Gerald Ford. That's 49 years that we've been celebrating Black History Month with the President's approval. What's interesting about that is we were enslaved and enchained for 15 generations. That's 246 years.

We didn't pass civil rights for another hundred years after that. That's a total of 346 years as property to be bought and sold. We didn't end up in this country on accident. It was a plan. It wasn't our plan. It was violent. It was dehumanizing.

It was a plan that required us to fight for generations for our personhood. And it's a fight that shapes our world today. See, during slavery, they destroyed black families, intentionally separating spouses and removing the children.

Like a number of you, I fight to make changes in the child welfare system that I was a part of as a child that is disproportionately filled with those same black children. During slavery, we worked for 246 years without a single ounce of compassion or compensation.

And we look at the earning potential of black people today and the wage gap that still reflects that lack of generational wealth accumulated and passed down, slave catching was a law. They carried badges. They looked just identical to sheriff badges today. If you ran away to freedom, it was a crime.

There's also a mental illness in the dsm, but that's a different conversation. Is it any surprise that our criminal legal system is filled with black bodies to this day? In fact, after emancipation, we wrote into our constitution the 13th amendment, the small caveat that slavery can still exist as long as you've been incarcerated.

And then we started the Lend Lease program so that if you were incarcerated, we'd lease you back to the former plantations that we emancipated you from so you could continue your free labor. In fact, in California right now, slavery is still in our Constitution. We've got some work to do.

I also think about heroes every Black History Month and the nuances and the stories that we don't often tell or think about and the global impact of black Americans. I think about Dr. King. A lot of folks don't think about the fact that Dr. King traveled to India in the middle of civil rights to learn from Gandhi.

He realized that racial restriction was in itself a proper definition for what black folks were experiencing in his own country. Country that a caste system better represented what was happening to black people here in this country. I think about my home institution at UCLA.

See, I came from the only black ethnic studies center in the entire UC system. It is named after Ralph Bunche. Ralph Bunch was many things. He was a decent basketball player. But he was also the first black man to win a Nobel Peace Prize.

And he won a Nobel Peace Prize brokering what was then called the Israeli Arab conflict in the 1940s. These are black American achievements that have shaped our entire world. And they deserve to be protected and they deserve to be told.

And so I'm glad Here on this 49th anniversary of Black History Month being told in this country that I get to share them on this floor. Because we've got work to do making sure that the stories that we tell aren't just the stories of the past. Black History Month is a call to action.

There's still work to be done. And with that, I respectfully ask for your. I vote.

Thank you, Assemblymember Bryan seeing and hearing no further debate. Assemblymember Jackson, you may close.

Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, and certainly the Black Caucus want to thank all the other caucuses for joining with us in this. To us, a very sacred part of the year. You see, when we speak of black history, we are not speaking of something distant or detached.

We are Speaking of the very spirit that has ignited every movement for justice and freedom in this land. We are speaking of the innovation that built the roads, that tilled the soil and crafted the culture that defines the American experience.

And when we walk through these corridors of power, we must never forget that black voices, once silenced, once denied, have echoed in these halls to demand justice, to write laws, to break barriers, and to shape the course of California and this country. But let us be clear that black history is not just a recounting of achievements.

It is a lens through which the full American story is understood. It is the prism through which we see the contradictions of this nation, the tension between its highest aspirations and its deepest failures. To celebrate black history is to celebrate the ingenuity of the human spirit.

It is to honor those who fought and bled, who dreamed and built, who refused to be defined by oppression, but instead redefined what America could be.

It is to recognize that the freedoms we all enjoy today, the right to vote, the right to an education, the right to a voice in this democracy, were secured in no small part by the sacrifices of black men and women who refuse to accept anything less than full humanity and full citizenship.

So let us not just commemorate black history. Let us commit to carrying its torch forward. Let us be steadfast in ensuring that our children learn the truth of this nation's past. Not a sanitized version that comforts the powerful, but the real, unfiltered, undeniable truth that reminds us that progress has never come without a struggle.

Let us remember that when we fight for equity, for justice, for opportunity, we are not asking for something extra. We are demanding what is rightfully ours. It is the story of a people who loved this nation even when it did not love them back.

It is the story of a people who believed in democracy even when democracy denied them a seat at the table. It is the story of a people who, time and time again, have pushed this country to be better, to live up to its highest ideals and to embrace the fullness of its promise.

But we know that our work is not over because we must still unravel and eradicate 400 years of systemic racism and racist tropes and microaggressions. But as those who came before us have shown, we are more than capable. We are these descendants of warriors and scholars, of innovators and freedom fighters.

And so we will continue forward, not with bowed heads, but with lifted voices, knowing that we do not just stand on the shoulders of giants, but we are called to be giants today.

And to those who Try to erase our history, rewrite our history, or silence our voices to tell us that our contributions do not matter, we simply say this. We literally built the foundations of this nation with our hands, with our blood, with our lives. We will not be silenced. And we are just getting started.

Madam Speaker, I ask for the first roll to be open for co authors.

Thank you, Assemblymember Jackson. Assemblymember Jackson has asked for the first roll to be open for co authors. All debate having ceased, the Clerk will open the roll for co authors. All Members vote who desire to vote. All Members vote who desire to vote. All Members vote who desire to vote. Members, this is for co authors.

The clerk will close the roll. There are 70 co-authors added. Without objection, we will now take a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor say, aye. Aye. All opposed say, no. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Members, today we celebrate Black History Month by recognizing our unsung heroes from across the state.

The California Legislative Black Caucus established the Unsung Hero Awards in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to celebrate those who embody his philosophy and ideals. We continue our tradition with this distinguished group of individuals being honored today. I'm appointing an escort committee to bring our honorees onto the floor for our ceremony.

Members should retire to the rear of the chamber as I call your name: Assembly Member Bryan, McKinnor, Sharp-Collins, Elhawary, Wilson, Gipson, and Jackson. I also ask that Speaker Rivas and Republican Leader James Gallagher move to the front center aisle to receive our honorees. Members, it is now time to introduce and welcome our unsung heroes of 2025. The clerk will read.

Our first honoree is Gil Robertson IV. He is escorted by Assembly Member Bryan. Gil Robertson IV is co-founder and president of the African American Film Critics Association, the premier body of Black film critics worldwide, and producer of the annual AAFCA Awards.

A member of the National Press Club, Robertson is also a veteran journalist with more than 50 national magazine covers to his credit. Please welcome Gil Robertson IV. Our next honoree is Jamilia Land. She is escorted by Assembly Member Bonta.

Jamilia Land is the co-founder of the Abolish Slavery National Network, a coalition committed to eradicating constitutional slavery in all forms, and the founder of the National Coalition To End Felony Murder, where she has been instrumental in advancing legislation to dismantle systematic inequities. Please welcome Jamilia Land. Our next honoree is Ernest Rhone IV.

He is escorted by Assembly Member Jackson. Ernest Rhone IV is a lifelong educator, mentor, and leader whose passion for teaching has shaped generations. A retired U.S. Army veteran and educator from the Rialto Unified School District, he dedicated over 30 years to inspiring students, mentoring teachers, and developing impactful educational programs. Please welcome Ernest Rhone IV.

Our next honoree is Tyra Hawthorne. She is escorted by Assembly Member Sharp-Collins. Tyra Hawthorne, a Marine Corps veteran and the founder, chief executive officer, and executive director of Heartbeat Music and Performing Arts Academy has dedicated over a decade to serving San Diego youth.

Her journey began with the creation of the Thunder Squad Drumline Program at the Jackie Robinson YMCA, introducing Black and Brown youth to the traditions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Please welcome Tyra Hawthorne. Our next honoree is Delphine Metcalf-Foster. She is escorted by Assembly Member Wilson.

Delphine Metcalf-Foster, a disabled U.S. Army veteran from Vallejo, California, was elected National Commander of the over one million-member disabled American veterans at the 2017 National Convention in New Orleans. She served in the U.S. Army Reserve with the 689th Quartermaster, 6253rd Hospital, and 6211th Transportation Units at Letterman Army Medical Center, retiring as a first sergeant in 1996. Please welcome Delphine Metcalf-Foster.

Our next honoree is Dr. Keith Curry. He is escorted by Assembly Member Gipson. Dr. Keith Curry is the president and chief executive officer of the Compton College and Compton Community College District. Dr. Curry is passionate about preparing students for higher education, guided pathways, bringing the digital divide, establishing partnerships among postsecondary institutions, and ensuring access for all. Please welcome Dr. Keith Curry.

Our next honoree is Cinder Eller Kimball. She is escorted by Assemblymember McKinnor. Cinder Eller Kimball has been a vital part of the Englewood Police Department for nearly three decades, taking on various roles that make a positive impact in her community. At the police department, she is the Senior Community Affairs and Homeless Liaison.

Ellar Kimball has also served the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Homeless Council. Please welcome Cinder Eller Kimball. Our next honoree is Jasmine Nelson. She is escorted by Assemblymember El Hawari. Jasmine Nelson is a native Angeleno with over 15 years of experience serving youth who have been impacted by homelessness, trafficking, mental health and substance abuse.

Nelson is the Director of the Youth Services at Inspire Together, a counseling organization that implements wraparound services for homeless youth. Please welcome Jasmine Nelson. Our next honoree is Tasha Williamson. She is escorted by Assemblymember Sharpe Collins. Tasha Williamson is a civil and human rights activist leading the fight against police misconduct, systematic injustices and community disenfranchisement.

Williamson is the founder of Project Safeway, a community first responder initiative that mobilizes organizations and community members to respond to scenes of violence, offering immediate support to victims and homicide survivors. Please welcome Tasha Williamson. Our next honoree is Karen Mack. She is escorted by Assemblymember Elhawary.

Karen Mack is founder of LA Commons, a South LA based nonprofit that implements artistic and cultural programs to engage residents, promote dialogue and address key issues like health, transportation and education. Please welcome Karen Mack. Our last honoree is Dr. Elaine Batchelor. She is escorted by Assemblymember Gibson. Dr. Elaine Batchelor is the Chief Executive Officer of Martin Luther King Jr. Community Healthcare, a five-star rated hospital and health system that provides quality care to 1.3 million residents of the medically underserved community of south Los Angeles. Dr. Batchelor has devoted her career to reducing health disparities and expanding healthcare quality for the most vulnerable. Please welcome Dr. Elaine Batchelor.

Thank you, members. on behalf of Chair Weber Pearson, who's joining us from the Senate, and Vice Chair Isaac Bryan and the members of the California Legislative Black Caucus, thank you for helping us commemorate Black History Month and the contributions of Black Americans to our state and the nation.

As a memento to mark today's ceremony, a copy of the book "Lovely One" by Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is on each member's desk. This book recounts Justice Brown Jackson's family's ascent from segregation to her confirmation on America's highest court in the span of a single generation.

This concludes the Assembly's observance of Black History Month as our honorees exit the chamber. Please join me in another round of applause of appreciation for all of their contributions.

Thank you, members. Folks, we are going to be continuing with the business on the Daily File, but before we do that, Assembly Member Boerner, it looks as though we have had several guests join us in the gallery or what recognized for your guest introductions.

Mr. Speaker. Members, coming from the southern part of the state in San Diego County is often a feat. I think these kids and their chaperones were at the airport at 6:15 this morning to come up here, and so I want all of us to recognize and a happy welcome to the fifth grade students and chaperones from La Costa Heights Elementary School.

They're here to join us this week to talk about inclusive playgrounds for all abilities, so if you see me talking about that in the next couple of weeks, you can thank the fifth graders at La Costa Heights, and also, one of their chaperones is my friend, Jodie Williams, if Jodie wants to stand up wherever she is. She is our San Diego Union School Board Trustee and today is her birthday. So happy birthday, Jodie, and welcome, La Costa Heights.

Happy birthday, Jodie. Welcome to the California Assembly. We're so proud of you and happy to have you here. Assembly Member Schiavo, you are recognized for your guest introductions.

Thank you so much, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, colleagues. It is my honor to introduce two remarkable leaders from Assembly District 40, Valerie Bradford and Tim Williams, who are making and preserving Black history in our own community. When I set this up, I did not realize that the celebration was happening today, and I know Valerie and Tim were so thrilled to be here and see it happen. And Valerie is the Founding President of the Santa Clarita Valley Branch of the NAACP.

A lifelong civil rights activist, she stepped into leadership in 2021 to address urgent issues in our community, including standing against racism experienced by our youth, speaking out against Confederate flags that are displayed in local parades, and organizing the MLK Jr. Day of Service events.

Valerie has also joined Tim to fight for environmental justice for a largely Black and Brown community made sick by the 40-acre burning landfill fire at the Chiquita Canyon Landfill where the fire will likely burn for the next decade. You'll see bills on this, I promise.

Tim Williams is dedicated to preserving the history of Val Verde, once known as the Black Palm Springs. During the 1930s and 40s, Val Verde was a haven for Black Californians escaping discrimination from Los Angeles and beyond. Tim has been collecting stories, uncovering historic photographs, and ensuring the rich history is not forgotten, all while advocating for environmental justice in his community. For example, one of the stories is the first parks director--African American parks director is from Val Verde, the first one in California.

He serves on the Advisory Board of the Val Verde Historical Society and is a member of the Val Verde Civic Association. I am so incredibly grateful for their amazing leadership in our community, so, colleagues, please join me in welcoming Valerie Bradford and Tim Williams to the Assembly floor.

We are moving on to business on the Daily File, File Item One: ACR 19 by Assembly Member Macedo.

The clerk will read.

Assembly Concurrent Resolution 19 by Assembly Member Macedo, relative to Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day.

Assembly Member Macedo, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I rise today to present ACR 19, Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. Women have made invaluable contributions to the diverse fields of engineering, yet they continue to be underrepresented in the industry.

Currently, women earn about 22% of the bachelor's degrees, 31% of the master's degrees, and nearly 26% of doctoral degrees in engineering. Women only hold about 15% of all engineering jobs, highlighting the ongoing challenges in achieving gender equity in the field.

STEM fields like engineering play a crucial role in California's status as the fifth largest economy in the world. Therefore, it is important that we continue to encourage girls and women who are interested in these careers, as well as support and invest in the future of engineering.

I say this as the proud daughter of a civil engineer, and that civil engineer was the only female in her graduating class from Cal Poly. She never let that stop her and she pursued every career opportunity in front of her. She also introduced me to engineering, and that is where I got my start in my professional career.

What I will tell you is when I called her this morning and said, 'I'm going to be presenting this on the floor today, Mom; what's your advice to all the women that want to pursue engineering?' she said, 'get to work.' So, ladies, let's get to work, and I respectfully ask for an aye vote. Thank you.

Thank you, Assembly Member Macedo. Would you like the first roll to be open for co-authors?

Yes, Mr. Speaker.

Okay. All debate having ceased, the clerk will open the roll for co-authors. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. Members, this is for co-authors. All those vote who desire to vote.

Clerk will close the roll; tally the votes. Ayes: 60; no: zero. Excuse me. There are 60 co-authors. Without objection, we'll now take a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor signify by saying, aye. All those opposed, no. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Assembly Member Macedo, you're recognized for your guest introduction.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to recognize the folks from the American Council of Engineering Companies in the gallery, including Miriam Munshi Virani, the California President of ACEC, and all the other wonderful engineers who represent California and the students who are pursuing engineering careers. I don't know where they are.

Welcome. Moving on to file item 2. ACR 29 by Assemblymember Irwin. The Clerk will read

Assembly Concurrent Resolution 29 by Assemblymember Irwin Relative to Engineers Week.

Assemblymember Irwin. You are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I am pleased to present ACR 29 today. ACR 29 declares the week of February 16th through February 22nd as Engineers Week. This week marks the 74th anniversary of Engineers Week with the inspiring theme Design your Future.

This year's celebration is a powerful reminder of the critical role engineers play in developing innovative solutions to our most pressing issues. Engineers have been instrumental in advancing breakthroughs in so many industries, from healthcare and transportation to finance and renewable energy.

I am especially grateful today to the US Army Corps of Engineers, who began phase two of debris removal from burn sites last week in Pacific Palisades and Altadena.

This massive and complex operation will include the disposal of over 4 million tons of fire debris, and we would not be able to do it without the hard work of these many engineers. Thank you.

Members, please join me in once again recognizing the 1.7 million practicing engineers in the State of California and their important contributions to our society. And I respectfully ask for your I vote.

Thank you. Assemblymember Erwin, would you like the first roll to be open for co authors?

Please.

All debate having ceased, the Clerk will open the roll for co authors. All Members vote who desire to vote. All Members vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. Clerk will close the roll. There are 65 CO authors added without objection. We'll now take a voice vote on the resolution.

All those in favor say aye. All those opposed nay. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted.

And I would like to once again recognize the engineers upstairs. Let's give them a big round of applause.

Thank you again. Moving on to File Item Three: ACR 27 by Assembly Member Rubio. Clerk will read.

Assembly Concurrent Resolution 27 by Assembly Member Blanca Rubio and others, relative to Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.

Assembly Member Rubio, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and members. I rise today as a mother of two teenagers, a teacher, as the Chair of the Select Committee on Domestic Violence, and as a woman who wants the best for our youth.

I also stand before you as a proud member of the Legislative Women's Caucus, who gave me the opportunity to bring awareness to this important issue. I'm introducing ACR 27, which recognizes February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. This measure comes as a reminder that during the month we celebrate love, we should also be celebrating and bringing awareness to healthy love and healthy relationships.

Violence in dating is not limited to adults. Sadly, it can affect our youth as well. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three adolescents report verbal, emotional, physical, and sexual dating abuse each year.

The American Psychological Association states, 'one in three teens ages 14 to 20 have experienced dating abuse and about the same number say they have committed dating abuse themselves.' Teen dating violence has been linked to other forms of violence and aggressive aggressions against peers, including bullying, sexual harassment, sexual violence, and physical violence.

Survivors of teen dating violence have increased risk for truancy, dropout, teen pregnancy, suicide, experience eating disorders, and engaging in other harmful behaviors such as use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

Youth who are survivors in high school are high at--are at higher risk for victimization during college, and adolescents' perpetrators of dating violence are more likely to abuse their intimate partners as adults. State-level policies and action are essential to changing the social conditions that can lead to violence and providing an effective response once it has occurred.

Prevention and awareness are ongoing necessities. Dating and domestic violence can be prevented before it occurs. By preventing domestic violence, we also address significant long-term health impacts of domestic violence. These are issues that often get overlooked or that don't seem to correlate at first glance.

Women who are survivors of violence are 80% more likely to suffer a stroke, 70% more likely to have heart disease, and 60% more likely to become asthmatic. The current reality of limited one-time inconsistent funding dedicated to prevention work has made it challenging for organizations to establish prevention programs that can sustain long-term work within their communities.

This is why we must continue to bring these issues to the forefront. I would also like to take this time to honor a victim of teen dating violence. This past December, one of my constituents from Azusa, 17-year-old Angelina Gonzalez, a high school student with the world ahead of her and nothing but goodness within her, was killed by her ex-boyfriend. An atrocity such as this should never happen and is incredibly difficult to speak on, let alone experience.

My heart goes out to her family and friends and all others who have endured violence in a setting that should only bring joy and love. With the goal of continuing the conversation with how we can better support our teenagers as they explore relationships, I hope that you all consider February 2025 as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. I respectfully ask for your aye vote on ACR 27. Thank you.

Thank you, Assembly Member Rubio. Assembly Member Stefani, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and members. I'm honored to co-author AC 27 with my colleague first from Baldwin Park to recognize February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month in California. Addressing teen dating violence is not just about awareness, it's about prevention, intervention, and support for survivors. Teen dating violence is a serious and growing problem across California.

One in three adolescents report experiencing verbal, emotional, physical, and/or sexual abuse. The effects extend beyond the immediate harm. Survivors face higher risk of truancy, mental health struggles, substance abuse, and even future victimization. One of the most inspiring aspects of this resolution is the engagement of the San Francisco's young leaders in addressing this issue.

The San Francisco Youth Commission, in partnership with Black Women Revolt Against Domestic Violence and the Asian Women's Shelter, is stepping up to lead conversations and initiatives. Their commitment to peer-driven education and advocacy is the exact type of action we need to shift our culture on this issue and protect the next generation.

The San Francisco Youth Commission's formal recognition of February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month reflects the city's commitment to ensuring young people experience safe and healthy relationships, and I'm thrilled to see that our state is joining them in this resolution. Again, I want to thank my colleague from Baldwin Park for bringing this forward.

And thank you to all the organizations, advocates, and youth leaders, including those in San Francisco, who are committed to ending teen dating violence and creating a future where every young person can thrive in safe and healthy relationships. I respectfully request that you join me today in voting aye on ACR 27. Thank you.

Thank you, Assembly Member Stefani. Seeing and hearing no further debate, Assembly Member Rubio, you may close.

Thank you. I would like co-authors please, on the resolution.

Absolutely. Members, the clerk will open the roll for co-authors. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. This is for co-authors. All those vote who desire to vote. There are 60--clerk will close the roll.

There are 68 co-authors added. Without objection, we'll now take a voice vote on the resolution. All in favor say, aye. All opposed say, no. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. We are going to pass and retain on File Item Four. We've already taken up File Item Five. Moving on to File Item Six: ACR 33 by Assembly Member Zbur. The clerk will read.

Assembly Concurrent Resolution 33 by Assembly Member Zbur and others, relative to Rare Disease Day.

Assemblymember Zbur, you are recognized. Mr. Speaker, Members, I'm pleased today to present ACR 33 alongside our colleague from Newport Beach and Senator Blake Spear, which recognizes February 28 as rare disease Day and reaffirms the state's commitment to raising awareness, supporting individuals and families affected by rare diseases and promoting policies that enhance research, treatment and access to care.

A rare disease is a condition that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States. However, despite the rare designation, an estimated 3 million Californians suffer from rare diseases.

Rare diseases include life threatening and physically or mentally disabling conditions like Huntington's disease, cystic fibrosis, ALS and Duchenne muscular dystrophy, along with genetic conditions observed at birth and childhood cancers. Collectively, there are more than 10,000 rare diseases, but only 5% have an FDA approved therapy.

This is mainly due to their pathological complexity, limited patient populations and lack of private investment. These diseases require specialized care, research and policy attention to drive medical advancements and improve patient outcomes. Rare diseases significantly impact patients and their families.

Despite despite each rare disease's unique nature, patients struggle with common challenges like long diagnostic long diagnostic odysseys, limited and expensive treatment options, difficulty accessing services and issues with insurance reimbursement.

California is the leader in rare disease research, establishing the Center for Rare diseases at UCLA and providing 261.0 billion billion 1.0 in clinical research funding in 2024 through the California Institute of Regenerative Medicine, to name a few examples. Beyond research, California's life sciences sector is also leading the way in transforming treatments and therapies for rare disease patients worldwide.

I'm also proud to have passed that this body and our and the Senate and The Governor signed AB 2613 last year in honor of my sister Jackie, who endured a three year battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

AB 2613 established the state's First Rare Disease Advisory Council, which will bring together patients, policymakers and other experts to find new ways to collaborate to improve the lives of patients with rare diseases.

In conclusion, recognizing February 28th as rare disease Day serves as a crucial step in addressing the unmet needs of the rare disease community and reinforces California's commitment to advancing solutions for those affected.

This resolution, along with the reinvigoration of the California Rare Disease Caucus and the establishment of the state's Rare Disease Advisory Committee, sends a strong signal that the Legislature and California is here to support those with rare diseases. Thank you very much and I Respectfully ask for your I vote.

Thank you. Assemblymembers Zbur. Assemblymember Ransom, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Good afternoon, colleagues. Today I rise in support of ACR33, designating February 28 as rare disease Day. As noted in the resolution, There are over 300 million people worldwide who live their lives every day with a rare disease. Each person's experience dealing with the rare disease is unique.

However, there are some universal challenges faced by those who are impacted with rare diseases. Whether it's dealing with the all too common prolonged misdiagnosis and the struggle to receive a final diagnosis, or the lack of access to treatment and care because of financial hardships or geographic constraints.

Californians with rare diseases simultaneously face inequities in care, all while dealing with their debilitating illnesses. My office is invested in addressing these inequities at every opportunity possible. While continued advancements in health communities means more and more rare diseases have treatment options, the fact is that many of these diseases have no effective cures.

During a time such as this, when our country's history is focused on halting scientific research, study and discovery, it is crucial that we highlight resolutions like ACR 33. It's more than just a day to acknowledge that there are Californians who live with rare diseases.

It also reminds us that we as a body must put forward ideas that continue to advance research leading to new treatment and cures, and work to ensure that access to health care is equitable and affordable to all. No matter how rare your condition, I ask for your I vote on ACR 33. Thank you.

Thank you, Assemblymember Ransom. Assemblymember Dixon, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members, I too am proud to rise today in support of ACR 33 Rare Disease Day. As the Vice Chair of the Rare Disease Caucus with my colleague from Santa Monica.

As many Members of this body may remember, in 2023, I carried a piece of legislation that was signed into law creating the California ALS Research Network Voluntary Contrib Fund for taxpayers. I ran this Bill in honor of my mother who passed away from ALS 22 years ago.

So firsthand, as my colleague from Santa Monica experienced this with his sister, we have seen the personally seen and witnessed and experienced the unrelenting progression of a rare so called rare disease.

Rare disease is really a misnomer because to the family and the person who is suffering, and to the family and friends who witness this, it's not rare at all.

It's simply a disease, as has been mentioned, that takes months, if not years to Diagnose by the process of elimination, and then you get a diagnosis, and it's a death sentence because there's no cure. So it's a tragedy.

And I am so honored to be part of the California Legislature in this body to advance the knowledge and awareness of. For rare diseases in our state. We all know having witnessed someone with a rare disease, the inevitable irrevocable death sentence.

And I remember when my mother, after being a very active, athletic woman her entire life, suddenly became over a period of time, short few months, where she could only blink her eyes and smile and move her a little finger, but her brain, her heart, her lungs were all still functioning. So she. She was healthy in that respect.

It's just that the motor neurons progressively died, and then they cannot control your physical organs. So it's a. It's a shockingly painful, ugly situation to be with a rare disease, family Member or friend, and there's no. You never lose hope, but there's just no medical treatment. There is no cure. Yet.

Lou Gehri, I think many know that he died of ALS when it was really first diagnosed in 1941, I believe. So it's 84 years ago and still no cure. Rare diseases touch many of us in this chamber, with many people having one degree of separation to a rare disease. It's remarkable.

And as the Assembly Member from Santa Monica indicated, the diseases which are contained in the Bill, but there are many in addition to als, there's sickle cell anemia, Spina Bifida, bifida, Crohn's disease, cystic fibrosis, and many more amongst all of us. And just when I joined the Legislature and Assembly Member Brian, he may have stepped out.

He had a family friend, I think it was a friend in the Legislature, a staff Member who died of ALS, and Mr. Zaber and my mother. We all are touched by these diseases.

And it just seems in the 21st century, we are struggling with cures for these diseases and the investment with pharmaceutical companies to invest in a limited population. 20 only, but a lot of 25,000 people at any given time in the United States have als.

But there are hundreds of thousands of family Members and friends who have been affected by this. According to this awful disease. According to the National Organization for Rare Diseases, one out of every 10American lives. One out of every 10Americans lives with a rare disease.

And there are more than 30 million people in the United States with rare diseases. So collectively, there's a critical mass, but individually, these diseases don't have that critical mass. And advocacy. California is a leader in innovation in the development of treatments and care models. And we should continue to strive to be leaders within the life sciences sector.

Rare Disease Day is observed on the last day of February to raise awareness about rare diseases and their impact on individuals, their families and their community.

And most importantly for me personally, I feel that I'm an advocate beyond ALS to help people who are fighting these lonely battles where the insurance companies don't pay, they don't provide for it, because you cannot be institutionalized with these diseases because there's no institution that can care for you.

So the family Members have to take extraordinary means to financially bring in care, bring in help. That was our situation because when you have ALS and these rare diseases, you don't have the facilities, don't have equipment to care for. Thank you, Assemblymember Dixon.

So Members, I ask you to join me in observing February 28 as rare disease Day. And your I vote. Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Assemblymember Dixon. Seeing and hearing no further debate, Assemblymember Zvohr, you may close.

Respectfully asked for your aye vote.

Mr. Zabor, would you like the first roll to be open for co authors?

Yes, please. Mr.

Speaker, all debate having ceased, the Clerk will open the roll for co authors. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. The Clerk will close the roll. There are 68 CO authors added without objection. We will now take a voice vote on the resolution.

All those in favor say aye. All those opposed? No. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Okay, moving back to announcements and guest introductions. Members, a reminder that next Monday, March 3rd is the deadline for you to submit your annual form, Form 700 to the FPPC. Forms should be submitted electronically.

Questions may be directed to Patrick Fitzgerald, Chief Counsel of the Assembly Legislative Ethics Committee. Assemblymember Soria, you are recognized for your guest introduction.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I'd like you all to help me welcome to the chamber today representatives from the Valley Build pre apprenticeship training program, which is a program of the Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board, a board that I was actively a part of when I was on the local City Council.

It is this program is an initiative born in Fresno that introduces my constituents and people in Fresno county into the building trades profession through pre pre apprenticeship training. It eliminates barriers for underrepresented groups, folks that are justice impacted, unhous single moms living in poverty, you name it. It creates a pipeline into the skilled trades.

And so it is important to Know that this valley builds pre apprenticeship program boasts a 90% graduation rate with over 75% of those graduates landing jobs after TR after the training is complete.

In the life, during the life of this program they've trained about a thousand individuals Members when it comes to creating a pipeline for good paying jobs and high quality jobs, especially in the valley. These men and women that have been involved with the program know how to get it done.

As you guys all know, high speed rail has been a tremendous investment in the Central valley turning over 12,000 jobs. And our local residents are actually benefiting from those jobs by entering into the pipeline through this program. They are celebrating 15 years this year.

And so I thought it was appropriate to invite them here to Sacramento because the state actually has invested millions of dollars into these types of programs. That this program is actually has expanded throughout the Central Valley and other counties. And so these programs are much more than just training and helping these folks enter into the pipeline.

They're about transforming lives. And I just want to share one particular woman. Her name is Alexis and that's what this, this program is about.

It's about the Alexis of this world who are who was a single mom of two, she was living homeless in a homeless shelter when she actually came to and ran into this program, entered this program and today she's an electrician earning more than $40 an hour, making sure that she has a stable home for her kids, saving and being able to enter into that middle class.

So this is what this, these types of programs do in our community. So today I want to recognize informally. Welcome Chuck Real House who is the secretary treasurer of the Building Trades and Construction Council for Fresno, Madera, Kings and Tulare counties. Samuel Norman, principal of the Reels company. Blake Conkins. Call I I I Constant call. Excuse me.

Executive Director of the Fresno Regional Workforce Development Board and Joshua Rojas and also Angie Rios from the Rios company as well. So thank you so much for the work that they've been doing.

So wanted to welcome here to Sacramento and congratulate them for 15 years of investing in families, especially those underrepresented in our communities in the Central Valley. Welcome to Sacramento.

Members. We're going to move back to the business on the daily file. We are moving to a vote on the consent Calendar file item 7. Is there any Member that wishes to remove an item from the consent calendar? Seeking and hearing None. The Clerk will read the second day consent calendar.

Senate Concurrent Resolution 15 by Senator Umberg. Relative to substance use disorder treatment month.

Clerk will open the roll on the Consent calendar. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. Clerk will close the roll and tally the votes. I65 no 0. The consent calendar is adopted. Members, the quorum call is still in place.

Please give your respectful attention to those who are granted prior permission to speak on their adjournment. In memory, please take all your conversations off the floor. Thank you. Members, please take your conversations off the floor. Assembly Member Rodriguez, you are recognized for your adjournment and memory.

Mr. Speaker and colleagues, it's with a very with a heavy heart that I ask you to join me in a journey in the memory of Upland Police Detective Caitlin Taylor. Detective Teague was a kind soul, a bright light in the lives of many, and truly a public servant at heart.

Before joining law enforcement, Detective Teague earned her master's degree in public Administration and worked as a social worker, positively impacting countless lives. In December of 2014, she transitioned to law enforcement, beginning her career with the Upland Police Department.

As a patrol officer, she earned the position of field training officer, mentoring and preparing newly hired officers for their roles. In May of 2021, she became a school resource officer where she made a lasting impact on thousands of students, bridging the gap between law enforcement and the youth.

She was a role model and a mentor, shaping the lives of many young people in the community. In July of 2022, she was promoted to detective, specializing in property crimes and crimes against children and elders. Detective Teague's life was one of dedication, service and compassion, both in law enforcement and in the community.

She leaves behind a lovely family, including her husband, Upland PD Lieutenant Lon Teague, her parents, siblings, nephews, nieces and stepchildren. Her contributions to law enforcement and the community will never be forgotten. We extend our deepest consultation, condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.

Let's honor Detective Teague's legacy by remembering her commitment to public safety, safety and the countless lives she has touched. May she rest in peace knowing she made a profound difference in our world. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I respectfully ask that we adjourn in memory of Detective Caitlyn Teague.

Thank you, Assembly Member Rodriguez. Assemblymember Harbedian, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. And I want to first thank my. Colleague from Ontario for bringing this forward. It is devastating. Detective Teague was a valued Member of the Upland Police Department, but I think that her example was so remarkable. She was a social worker before joining. The Upland Police Department, and I think.

That we still live in a society where it is very hard for women to break into law enforcement and to. Rise through the ranks as quickly as she did. And she really devoted her life to protecting youth, to being a public servant in every way.

And I think anyone who's worked in social work, anyone who has worked in law enforcement, I think their angel wings. Are a little bit bigger, they're a little bit stronger. And so may the Lord protect her and keep her. And may we adjourn in memory of Detective Caitlin Teague today.

Thank you, Assemblymember Harbedian. Assemblymember Stefani, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, colleagues, I would like to close today's meeting in memory of Francis Xavier Crowley, known as FX Crowley, a cherished Member of the labor community throughout San Francisco in the Bay Area, who passed away on February 11th at the age of 66.

A third generation San Franciscan, FX was born on February 5th, 1959 and dedicated his life to his family, friends and public service. He was a Proud Graduate of St.

Ignatius College Preparatory where he played as a starting varsity linebacker and would go on to earn his Bachelor of Arts in Radio and Television from Long Beach State in 1982. After graduation, FX built a remarkable career in organized labor, attaining Journeyman status with the International alliance of theatrical stage employees IATSI.

Just two years after graduating, he was elected to serve seven consecutive terms as the head of IATSE Local 16 and Later as the business agent for IATSEE Local 119. Over his decades of service, his advocacy for working people and dedication to fighting for workers rights was unwavering.

FX also dedicated his time to serving on the Executive board of the San Francisco labor council for over 25 years and helped organize the city's Catholic labor breakfast for over two decades. Beyond his work and labor, FX was also a dedicated public servant.

Across 15 years, he served on the Civil Service Port and the San Francisco Public Utilities Commissions. His accomplishments aside, FX has always prioritized his family. He was a husband, a father and a brother. He was the epitome of a devoted family man.

FX is survived by his wife, Nancy, four children, Jillian, Bobby, Carrie and Margaret, his granddaughter Peyton, and soon to be grandson Xavier. He also leaves behind his brother Joe, two sisters, Kelly Fuller and Tara Chase, sister in law Charlene, and many nieces and nephews.

FX's family shared that he was known for beginning his days with words of support and encouragement to those around him at the dinner table. He loved to gather with family over his signature chicken marsala, homemade mashed potatoes and garlic bread.

He enjoyed having coffee with his children, walking his dog with his family, and bicycle rides through Golden Gate park with his wife. He will be missed for his smile, his laughter and his blue green eyes. And most, he will be missed for his integrity and his honesty.

More than anything, he will be missed for his love and generosity. He made frequent phone calls to family, friends and colleagues, always offering to lend a hand wherever he could and advocate on behalf of those he loved.

As we remember FX today, let us honor the life of a man who lived with integrity, joy and an unwavering commitment to serving his community. On behalf of this body, I want to extend my condolences to the Crowley family and for all who knew FX on the loss of a beloved.