Assembly Floor

Assembly is now in session. Assembly Member Lackey notices the absence of a quorum. Sergeant at arms will prepare the Chamber and bring in the absent members. Clerk will call the roll.

[Roll Call].

Members, a quorum is present. We ask our guests and visitors in the rear of the Chamber and in the Gallery to please stand for the day's prayer. Today's prayer will be offered by Reverend Patti Oshita. Reverend Oshita.

Please join me in a moment of reflection. The story of America would be hollow without the words of immigrants. The immigrant story is a part of what America is today. Seeking the opportunity to pursue the dream of a better life, immigrants came to America.

All too often they had to face and overcome obstacles of language, culture, and prejudice, but armed with courage, hope, and determination, our immigrant communities persevered. They planted roots in the soil of America and they endured whatever adversities came their way. Their deep hope was that the generations to follow would have more opportunities to seek a better life.

During Irish American Heritage Month, we especially honor and celebrate the Irish American journey, for their story is not separate from the story of America. Three of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence were actually born in Ireland.

The threads of the Irish immigrants and all immigrants are woven deep into the fabric of what we know to be America today. When our wisdom eyes open and we see that we are all a part of one humanity, then kindness will flow effortlessly from our hearts. Let us try to live with kindness and gratitude beyond words.

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

Please join me for the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag. [Pledge of Allegiance].

You 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 removal, arrest, or other appropriate legal remedies. Reading of the previous day's journal.

Assembly Chamber, Sacramento, Thursday, January 16, 2025. The Assembly met at 7:00 a.m. The Honorable Tri Ta Assembly Member 70th District presiding, Chief Clerk Steve Parker with the desk, Reading Clerk David A. Bowman reading.

Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry moves and Mr. Flora seconds that the reading of the previous day's journal be dispensed with. Presentations and Petitions: there are none. Introduction and reference to 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. Madam Majority Leader, you are recognized for your procedural motion.

Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 45.5 to allow Assembly Member Sharp-Collins and Ward to speak in an adjournment in memory today.

Without objection, such shall be the order.

I request unanimous consent to suspend Assembly Rule 118[a] to allow Assembly Member Gallagher to have guests on the floor, Assembly Member Quirk-Silva to have a guest at her desk, and for Assembly Member Gabriel and Sharp-Collins to have guests in the rear of the Chamber today.

Without objection, such shall be the order.

Pursuant to Assembly Rule 96, I move to withdraw Assembly Bills 100 through 219 inclusive and order them to the Second Reading file.

Assembly Member Flora, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Withhold consent, ask for a roll call vote.

Assembly Member Flora has requested withhold consent and requested a roll call vote. This is a not debatable. We are going to move to a roll call vote. Clerk will open the roll. This is a procedural vote. The Assembly--excuse me--Majority Leader Aguiar-Curry is asking for an aye vote. Mr. Flora is asking for a no vote.

This is a procedural 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: 42; noes: 15. Motion carries. Madam Majority Leader, you may continue.

Pursuant to Assembly Rule 96, I request unanimous consent to re-refer the following bills to committee: AB 440: Ramos from the Transportation Committee to the Health Committee, and AB 1265: Haney from the Revenue and Tax Committee to the Housing and Community Development Committee, then back to the Tax Revenue and Tax Committee.

Without objection, such shall be the order. Members, please direct your attention to the Gallery for some very special international guests that are visiting us today. They're here to learn about our government and our state. I'd like to introduce individuals from a U.S. state department-sponsored program that began after 911 to bring students from countries with significant Muslim populations to experience life here in the United States.

They're here from Malaysia, Pakistan, Germany, Chile, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, and Tanzania. Please join me in welcoming Mahasri Sasitharan, Kashif Muhammad, Janice Schultz, Mariano Pinto-Lena, Azjik Baghdassarian, Akbar, Sadir Kulaf, and Hussain Juma. Welcome to the California Assembly. Welcome. We're so grateful that you came.

Assemblymember Arambula, you are recognized for your guest introduction from the Majority leader's desk.

Buenos tardes. Es Uno nor parentroducid Al Aquil el capitolio Del estado Los campiones Del Valle Central. In football, Los Edison Tigers. It is my honor today to be able to introduce, as the senior Member of the Tiger Caucus, those of you who are not aware, I am not the only Alma mater who sits on this floor today.

We have a belief in one tiger, many stripes. And while I don't see our good colleague from Suissan City here right now, there are more than just one Tiger on this floor.

Now, these Valley champions late last month were facing Clovis north, who happens to be the number one ranked Tiger team in the Valley, as well as the number one ranked team in the entire state.

And so I made a purpose to go down, to be able to watch their game as they punched this top team in the mouth and scored within the first two minutes. They scored again 20 minutes later as they were up 20.

But this top team also came back and ultimately tied the score 2:2 in the first half. Second half ended still tied 2:2. And they went to overtime. After the first overtime, they were still tied. And they got to the second overtime. And with one minute remaining in the game, a penalty was called within the penalty box.

And these champions who are above you showed grit and determination to overcome and to achieve together. Their combined determination, the institution's commitment to developing these young men has led to today.

And so, for those of us who are Tigers, we are proud of you and what you stand for and wanted to congratulate you and wish you luck as you continue to strive to be the best that you can be welcome here to the State Capitol, to the People's House, and thank you for all that you continue to do to inspire our community.

Welcome, Edison Tigers. Let's go. Assemblymember Arambula, you are again recognized for your guest introduction.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I guess today is the day I'm gonna start speaking a little bit more. This past week, we had the opportunity with Speaker Rivas as he come to our district, to be able to speak about immigration. And while we were there, there was one particular voice that was missing.

Someone who has been committed to issues for years in immigration, and her name is Sandra Celadone, who's here as the President and Executive Director of Building Healthy Communities. Now, Sandra and I have known each other for quite a long time because she actually inspired me to want to run over a decade ago.

It was her advocacy within health for all our ability to provide health care for our undocumented population, which is the reason why I wanted to come here to the green carpet. But it was her organization and nonprofit that has been organizing young people for years to be able to make a healthier Fresno and a healthier state.

Sandra continues to educate and to empower our young people by ensuring that they know where those levers of government are and how we as people are able to make changes within our community. I wanted to welcome her here to the state capitol and thank her for all her years of service for our community. Thank you.

Assemblymember Gabriel, you're recognized for your guest introductions.

Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Good morning, colleagues. I'm excited to introduce a group of leaders who are here today from MTO Shahmaghsoudi today who are here to celebrate Nowruz, the Persian New year celebrated worldwide by over 300 million people. It is a holiday of unity, reflection and hope for the new year.

And I'm so honored to have the chance to help with this celebration with my friends here from Mto, an international nonprofit with centers throughout California and the world dedicated to teaching the wisdom of Sufism, a religion and practice that dates back 1400 years to the time of prophet Muhammad.

I would name each of them, but Sufism teaches teachings emphasize the value of selflessness and their work is a collective effort that they do for the greater good. It's been an honor for me to get to know folks in my district.

We also have some folks here from the MTO center in Sacramento, and we will be presenting a resolution on Thursday. On Thursday in partnership with the AAPI caucus when the holiday officially starts. But we are very fortunate to have them here today. There is an opportunity if you want to interact with them in room 317.

They'll be there until 3:30. You can learn a little bit about Sufism, a little bit about the holiday of Nowruz. But colleagues, for now, please join me in welcoming MTO Shahmaghsoudi to the Assembly floor.

Nowruz Mubarak, may your holiday be blessed. Assemblymember Quirk Silva, you are recognized for your very important guest introduction.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members, it's my pleasure to introduce my husband and former mayor of Fullerton, Jesus Silva. He has a job that most of us don't want to do, but it's so essential. And he is a junior high teacher teaching math and business skills.

His family immigrated here from Chihuahua, Mexico, and all four of his siblings, him included, have moved into higher education with professions and all are homeowners and it's just that American dream. But especially this incredible guy who I love so much.

Okay, we will be proceeding on to business. On the daily file second reading. Clerk will read

Assembly Bill 279 with amendments.

All bills will be deemed read and all amendments will be deemed adopted. Onto the Assembly third reading. We are going to pass and retain file items 2 through 9. On to file item 10. HR 19 by Assemblymember Soria.

The Clerk will read House Resolution 19 by Assembly Member Soria and others relative to California Agriculture Day.

Assemblymember Soria, you're recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, permission to wear a prop during my presentation?

Without objection.

So, HR 19 honors California's agriculture Day, which commemorates the vital role of California's farmers, ranchers and farm workers in fueling our economy and putting food on tables across the globe. Over 400 different commodities accounting for over one third of vegetables and nearly three quarters of the fruits and nuts are produced in the United States.

California is the nation's leader in agricultural exports, shipping $23.6 billion of food and agriculture commodities around the world. Reported in 2022. I'm especially proud to represent the 27th district, which is at the heart, which is at the heart of California's agricultural powerhouse.

The counties in my district, Fresno, Merced and Madera, produce over $13 billion in crops annually and contribute roughly 28% of California's total agricultural production. Agriculture is not just an industry, it's a way of life, supporting thousands of hard working farm workers. Fresno county alone employs over 37,000 people in agriculture.

Madera County has over 8,300 and Merced county more than 5,800. These workers are the backbone of our food system, ensuring that fresh produce, dairy and nuts reach tables across the state and the country. Oops, this stuck. The theme of California Ag Day 2025 is Ag@ work, Cultivating careers, communities.

In recognition of the vital role that agricultural plays in our state today, let's honor the dedication and hard work of those in the agricultural sector who feed the nation and sustain our own communities. And we must work to foster robust agricultural production and strong environmental protections. California Ag can lead the way.

However, the burden should not fall on farmers and ranchers alone. We need to support and support and resources from Sacramento must happen to all California farmers, ranchers, farm workers, and everyone else who helped make our agriculture industry the envy of the world. We are profoundly grateful.

I'm also honored to be the agricultural Chairwoman this year and invite you all to Ag Day this week. I would like to have the first roll call open for co authors. And I encourage you all to join me again on celebrating California's agricultural resilience and strength on the west depths of the Capitol on Wednesday, March 19th. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I respectfully ask for an aye vote.

Thank you, Assemblymember Soria. Assemblymember Hadwick, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today today in support of HR19, recognizing March 19th as California Agriculture Day. As many of you know, I'm a farmer myself. My husband and our kids run our county's only pumpkin patch. Each fall. We also raise hay, vegetables, cut flowers and Highland cattle. As an FFA and 4H alumni.

Chico State Agriculture Science graduate, Farm Bureau Member. Having a husband who runs our Natural Resource Conservation Service office. Having our own farm was a dream we've always had. Raising our kids as farm kids and opening our home to teach others about farming and livestock. It was something we had always wanted.

Northern California is home to some of the most diverse and productive farming land in the country. In District 1. This isn't just our livelihood. It's a cornerstone of our culture, economy and the way of life. It's tradition. It's a quality, a quality of life that we love.

Even when you're feeding cows in a snowstorm, working 18 hour days at harvest or moving irrigation, it's a life that is hard work that is centered around weather and has so much out of our control. But it is a life that we love everyday.

Farmers like myself work hard to grow our food, to feed our families and fuel our nation. The crops we grow, the livestock we raise, and the innovations that we drive in sustainable farming practices all contribute to a thriving California.

Agriculture supports thousands of jobs from transportation and food processing to research and technology, ensuring that our economy can stay strong. We must continue to support policies that support our number one industry so that they so that the future of farming remains bright for the next generation. Mr. Speaker, permission to use a proposal without objection.

I talk about my cows a lot and convinced my very supportive husband to bring them down on Ag Day on Wednesday. So I'd sent you all a flyer email. We'll have our highland cows at a booth on the Capitol lawn, so please stop by that we should have babies as well for 10 to 2.

Come hug a fuzzy cow, see farm equipment and talk to people that are in the industry working hard to feed our country. I respectfully ask for your I vote.

Thank you, Assemblymember Hadwick. Assemblymember Tangipa, you are recognized.

All right. Good afternoon, Mr. Speaker. And Members. Today, I rise in support of HR 19. California leads the nation in agriculture, growing over 400 commodities and supplying much of America's fruits, vegetables and nuts. Nowhere is this more evident than our Central Valley, the breadbasket of the world.

Fresno county is home to 1.88 million acres of the world's most productive farmland, with agricultural operations covering nearly half of the county's entire land base. Farmers here raise more than 300 different crops, contributing more than 8 billion to the California economy and supporting 20% of all jobs in the Fresno era.

Many of the county's crops are not grown commercially anywhere else in the nation. Every $1 generated on farm produces another $3.50 in the local and regional economy. It's the backbone of California agriculture, and I am proud to represent a portion of it.

Ag Day is the best time for us to celebrate farmers, ranchers and anyone else in between, especially those in the Central Valley who battle drought and heat to keep food on our tables. It's a lifeline we cherish and we should keep in mind as we implement different policies in this body.

Here's to many more years of agriculture in California. Happy Ag Day. And for a couple of you who like to brag about our state, let it be known that California grows more peaches than the entire State of Georgia. In Fresno county alone, we've done over 400,000 or California£400,000 tons in peaches. Georgia, only 26,000 tons.

So let it be known that we also are the number one state when it comes to oranges, more than the entire State of Florida as well. So I respectfully ask for you to brag and support HR 19. Thank you.

I may have to steal those facts. Mr. Tangipa, thank you so much. Assemblymember Jeff Gonzalez, you are recognized Members.

Today, I rise in strong support of HR 19, California Agricultural Day. This day is dedicated to honoring the incredible contributions of our agricultural community. The 36th Assembly District is proud to represent the 9th largest agricultural district in the state and the hottest district in the state. By heat, not by looks. Well, maybe sometime by looks.

We have where we are located, where there's diversity of crops reflects the resilience and innovation of our farmers and ranchers. From dates to carrots to alfalfa, our agricultural industry not only feeds our state and nation, but also plays a crucial role in feeding the world.

In these challenging times, it's more important than ever to stand by our local farmers, ranchers and farm workers. They are the backbone of our food supply. Today. Let us take a moment to Express our deep gratitude for their tireless efforts and reaffirm our commitment to supporting them in every way possible.

Together, we must ensure that agriculture remains strong, sustainable and thriving. Pillar of our state's future. And as a fact, we in our county supply the dates for most of the world and the carrots for most of the world. So anyone who wants to fight on that one. Just kidding. We support ag Day and HR 19. Thank you so much.

Thank you, Assemblymember Gonzalez, for being so important. With heat and with looks out of your district. And we move on to Assemblymember Castillo. You're recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. I rise today in recognition of Ag Day, A day to celebrate California's agriculture. Agriculture and hard working men and women who keep this industry thriving. For me, this is more than a policy issue. It is deeply personal.

My father was a bracero, one of the many men who came to this country through the guest worker program, laboring under the hot sun to provide for his family. Agriculture was not just his job, it was his sacrifice, his pride, and his contribution to the American dream.

Growing up, I saw firsthand the dedication it takes to work the land and understood the deep sense of responsibility that comes with growing the food that feeds the families across California and beyond. Agriculture shaped the childhood and it shaped my values. Hard work, perseverance, and the belief that every job deserves respect.

I am proud to represent a district with a rich history of farm work, where generations of families, many of them immigrants, have built their livelihoods in the fields, dairies and orchids. That fuel economy. They are our backbone of our state and today we honor them. California's agriculture is more than just an industry.

It is a way of life. It sustains our economy, strengthens our communities and puts food on the table for millions. I am proud to recognize the farmers, farm workers and ranchers who make it all possible. I ask for your support of HR19. Thank you.

Thank you, Assemblymember Castillo. Seeing and hearing no further debate, Assemblymember Soria, do you wish to close?

Thank you. I asked for folks to be added for co authors and respectfully ask for your I vote.

Thank you, Assemblymember Soria Hadwick Gonzalez Tangipa Castillo. So nice to hear from our Members representing agricultural districts. On behalf of the entire Legislature, we all thank our farmers so much for everything they do for our great state and our great nation. And with that, Clerk will open the roll for co authors.

All those vote who desire to vote. This is for co authors. All those 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 no.

The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. We will pass and retain on file items 11 and 12 and move on to file item 13. ACR 51 by Assemblymember Haney. The Clerk will read

Assembly Concurrent Resolution 51 by Assembly Member Haney and others relative to Irish American Heritage Month.

Assembly Member Haney, you are recognized.

Thank you Mr. Speaker and Members. First, let me say you all look fabulous in your green. Happy St. Patrick's Day. Thank you so much everyone who is celebrating today and celebrating with us on this festive occasion and holiday.

I rise today as the co Chair of the California Legislative Irish caucus to present ACR 51 in honor of Irish American Heritage Month and 101 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Ireland. The story of the Irish in America, like that of all immigrants, is one of resilience, determination, hope and solidarity.

The the Great Irish famine of the 1840s brought over a million Irish men, women and children to the United States who have helped to shape our history, our culture, our economy and our democracy.

Many of those early Irish immigrants were drawn to California and from the early days of our state's history, the Irish were here as builders, dreamers, entrepreneurs, public servants, pioneers, labor leaders and politicians. In San Francisco, by 18801/3 of the city's population was Irish born.

The city's first foreign born mayor, Mayor Frank McCoughin, was an Irish immigrant alongside Chinese immigrants. Irish immigrants made up the bulk of the workforce on the transcontinental railroad, which is one of the greatest engineering achievements in American history. Their work was essential in connecting the country from coast to coast, opening up trade and travel.

Coming out of that experience, the Irish were pivotal to building our state's trade union movement and the labor protections that all Californians would benefit from.

The Irish have also had a special relationship with Mexican Americans and with Mexico, rooted in shared history of Catholicism, resistance to colonialism and solidarity, including the San Patricio Battalion, a battalion of Irish immigrants who defected to fight for Mexico during the Mexican American War.

Hailing originally from a small island of just a few million people, approximately 31.5 million Americans now report Irish ancestry accounting for nearly 10% of the US population, including over 2 million Californians. Globally, it's estimated that around 80 million people claim Irish descent.

The bonds between the State of California and the Republic of Ireland have long been strong and remain so today. We recently celebrated 90 years of Ireland's diplomatic presence in our state, one of the first consulates they opened abroad following Independence.

Ireland is the seventh largest overseas investor in California, ahead of much larger nations like China, with 480 businesses supporting over 25,000 jobs in our state. More than 900 US companies currently operate in Ireland, and six of the 10 biggest foreign direct investing companies in Ireland are headquartered in California.

And of course today, alongside hundreds of millions of people across the world, we celebrate St. Patrick's Day, which honors St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland who lived in the fifth century.

Legend has it that he used a three leaf shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, which is why the shamrock remains a powerful symbol for the Irish to this day. This past Saturday, San Francisco hosted its annual St. Patrick's Day parade, which is one of the oldest and largest on the West Coast, first celebrated in 1851, more than 170 years ago. So let me close with in Irish blessing, sometimes used as a St. Patrick's Day toast.

So I hope that those of you who are able can enjoy this day with a Guinness sometime later this evening. So let me offer this toast. May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rains fall soft upon your fields.

And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand. Happy St. Patrick's Day. Happy Irish American Heritage Month. Slante and I ask for the first roll to be open for co authors

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Mr. Haney Assemblymember Gallagher, you are recognized.

Yes, thank you Mr. Speaker and I joined with my colleague to celebrate Irish Heritage Month and this resolution, beautiful words my friend, and I think really epitomizes the contributions that Irish Americans have made. I rise today also to support ACR 51 and the Irish American story is one of grit and determination.

Starting from the very founding of this country, many soldiers of Irish descent fought in the Revolutionary War, and nine of the men who signed the Declaration of Independence were of Irish origin.

Irish were also an integral part of California history, significantly contributing to the development of California's infrastructure and joining other pioneers as they struck west during the California Gold Rush. And they, along with Chinese immigrants, for example, built the great railroads that connected east and West.

Many Americans have noted the Irish contributions and Irish Americans, driven by resilience and determination have left an indelible mark on the fabric of American society. From the early pioneers who braved perilous journeys in search of opportunity to the leaders and innovators who have shaped our nation's destiny. Their contributions are immeasurable.

From politics to business, science to literature, Irish Americans have enriched our culture and enriched our lives. The story of Irish Independence is also deeply inspiring and connected to our own.

The formation of the first Dal Arran and its proclamation of Ireland as an independent nation in 1919 marked a pivotal moment in Irish history, one that continues to resonate a century later.

The journey to peace in Northern Ireland, which America played a critical role in, epitomized the relationship between our two countries and the work towards peace with the Good Friday Agreement that was signed in 1998. And it stands as a testament to the power of dialogue and reconciliation.

As we celebrate Irish American Heritage Month, let us also recognize the economic and cultural ties that bind California and Ireland. The strength of this state's relationship with the Emerald Isle is built on shared values and ambition. From direct foreign investment to cultural heritage, our partnership is a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship.

In closing, I urge my esteemed colleagues to join me in supporting ACR 51 honoring Irish American heritage. Let us celebrate the legacy of the Irish American community and reaffirm our commitment to a future of peace, prosperity and friendship.

And on my own right, as a sixth generation Irish American, my ancestor Charles and his wife Mary came to this country in 1848, came to New York, were in search of a place to farm, a land of their own, escaped oppression in Ireland and found hope and opportunity here, eventually going to Wisconsin and then to California, where with their son Anthony, they established a farm that we actually farm to this very day.

So it's something that we're certainly very proud of. And we're proud of the immigrant story that has made America the great country that it is.

That people from far and wide have come to this country, have come to this State of California for freedom and for the opportunity to pursue their dreams free of those, free of oppression, free of the bonds that sometimes have been put upon us.

And we work today, all of us together, in this body, that that land of opportunity would continue. So thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I respectfully ask for your aye vote on ACR 51.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Leader Gallagher, Assemblymember Flora, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Colleagues. I think it was like 1987. President Reagan, in one of his speeches, made a comment that the blessed St. Patrick passed away the year of our Lord 461. And only the Irish can keep a weight going for 1500 years. And so, as we go out have a great St. Patrick's Day. Just have a safe, blessed St. Patrick's Day. Happy St. Patrick's Day.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day. Assemblymember Flora. Assemblymember DeMaio, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise in strong support of ACR 51, but I look around the room and I don't see the usual microphones raised. I don't understand the controversy behind this resolution. What have Irish Americans done to anger some of the caucuses that usually jump up on all of these diversity resolutions?

I hear no speeches from the Democrat Asian Caucus, from the Democrat LGBT Caucus, from the Democrat Jewish Caucus, from the Democrat African American Caucus. I hear no speech from the Democrat Latino Caucus. What have the Irish Americans in our state done not to deserve a speech? A moment. A minute. From all these caucuses.

Mr. Di Maio, this speech is about St. Patrick's Day, is not about this body. Please continue.

Well, I'm hoping that those caucuses, while they not stand in support speaking to this resolution, my hope is that you'll vote for this resolution. But again, I think when these resolutions come through, all of us, all caucuses, all diversity caucuses, should rise in celebration.

Happy St. Patrick's Day, Mr. DeMaio. Assemblymember Berman, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I want to thank my colleague from San Diego. I was going to vote no on this resolution on St. Patrick's Day, but I've been convinced by the wise words from my colleague from San Diego on the importance of celebrating St. Patrick's Day.

Hopefully, he and I will be able to go out tonight and celebrate it properly with my colleague from San Francisco. I want to thank my colleague from San Francisco for bringing forth this resolution. My Democrat colleague from the liberal bastion of San Francisco, who has the respect for the Irish as chair of the Irish Caucus. And thanks to the convincing from my colleague from San Diego, I will vote yes on this resolution in support of St Patrick's Day.

Happy St Patrick's Day, Mr. Berman. Assembly Member Patterson, you were recognized.

Well, thank you. I wasn't gonna say anything. I'm just kidding. I remember, you know, my family's Irish. And I remember talking to my grandpa one day and he lived in Sacramento, and I was talking to him about just being Irish and things like that. And he said. He said, Joe, we aren't Irish, we're Canadian.

Which just given everything that's going on in global affairs, is kind of ironic that he would say such a thing. But my family actually came over from Canada and.

But I was recalling that story one time and explaining it to somebody and an Irish lady happened to be behind me and she said, well, that's cause there was a lot of racism against Irish people. And you know, she took it. Obviously she overheard my comment and took it pretty personally.

But that just goes to show with my grandpa's generation. And before, while we're here celebrating Irish heritage and being Irish American, it really wasn't that long ago that generations were. Were scared to say they were Irish. So I'm a proud Irish American and I ask for an aye vote on this resolution.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Assemblymember Patterson, Assemblymember Quirk Silva, you are recognized.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. And I do support this measure, this resolution. One of the things we don't always know about each other, just by looking at one another, sometimes we make assumptions. But I actually have two daughters that started Irish dancing when they were in preschool and did all the way through high school.

So as these young girls danced down this aisle, at that time I was a teacher and a mom. Curling, those little curlers. Now they actually wear wigs. But that took about an hour each hair setting. And they participated up and down the State of California doing what they called feshes, which are Irish dancing competitions.

So that's very much something at this time of year that's really ingrained memory because they would dance at American legions, they would dance at schools, is a very festive time.

So Certainly I support ACR 51, but I do think it begs the question of where we are now when we talk about immigrants, because so many of our immigrant stories are the same stories, whether they come from Ireland or they come from across the border. They're about people coming to America for a better life, for opportunity.

And we've seen the hard work that our immigrants do to build up the State of California. So I'm proud of this resolution and all of our immigrants. And I ask for your aye vote.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Assemblymember Quirk Silva, Assemblymember Boerner, you are recognized.

Thank you, everyone. And I rise as a proud Irish American. I remember it was like my fourth or fifth year here. Somebody came up to me and they said, I didn't know you were Irish. I was like, this is what the Irish look like. This isn't. I just speak German. I lived in Germany for a long time.

My kids have German citizen as well as American citizenship. But this is what Irish people look like. We were in Ireland and I got to go to where my family immigrated from in 1764 in Armagh. And they actually beat Galway while we were there in Gaelic football and the championships, which was historic for my hometown.

So with that, I think we should recognize this resolution is about celebrating St. Patrick's Day and celebrating what it is for our Irish heritage here in California. And with that, respectfully request an aye vote on ACR 51.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Assemblymember Boerner seeing and hearing no further debate. Assemblymember Haney, would you like to close?

Sure. Thank you so much to all of my colleagues for your strong support of this resolution. I know that we are all very supportive, not only of celebrating St Patrick's Day, the contributions that the Irish have made to California, but also, as you heard from many, that the Irish story is one that is not unique.

They were immigrants to a new land. They found ways to contribute in powerful ways. Our state would not be the same without the Irish immigrants. And their story is one that we should remember at a time when there is a debate in our country about immigrants, their role, their inclusion, and how we welcome them.

If we look at the Irish story, a small island where they fanned out around the globe and have had such a powerful impact, including in our state, it's one that I think should also remind us of the power and importance of immigration and the diversity of our state, the strength and diversity that we have.

And I know that every single Member on this floor understands that. So with that, I respectfully ask for your aye vote and that we open the roll for co authors. Thank you.

Happy St. Patrick's Day. Assemblymember Haney. All debate having ceased, the Clerk will open the roll for co authors. Members, this is for co authors on ACR 51. All those vote who desire to vote. All those vote who desire to vote. All Members vote who desire to vote. The Clerk will close the roll.

There are 66 co authors added without objection. We'll now take a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor say aye. All those opposed say no. The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. Assemblymember Gallagher, you are recognized for your guest introductions.

Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. Another thing the Irish are very well known for is music and dance. Something that unfortunately did not pass down the generations to me. But fortunately for you, we have a great group here today who will demonstrate that for us.

And so we say, Falcha, welcome to the Kennely School of Irish Dance to the Assembly floor. The Kennely School was started in 1959 and has won titles in various national and international championships. Today we will be singing an Irish dance by some of the young Members of this school. The youngest being seven years old.

It's always encouraging to see the Irish culture imparted so early to the next generation. Members, please give a warm welcome to the Kennely School of Irish Dance. Thank you.

That was amazing. Truly amazing. Okay, we have one final guest introduction from Assemblymember Baines. Members, can I have some decorum please? Members, Assemblymember Bains, you are recognized.

Yes. Today, colleagues, I recognize and welcome the Shafter leadership Junior High school leadership team that has come. zero, there they are. Over year. I want to welcome give them a very, very warm welcome to the California State Assembly.

They woke up really early and drove that four or five hour drive all the way up from Shafter to be here for their leadership summit. So welcome to the California State Assembly, guys.

Welcome. Thank you, Assemblymember Baines. Members, we're now moving on to adjournments in memory. A quorum call is still in place. Please forgive me, Members. There was one item left on the daily file. We're going to pass and retain on file item 14. Back to adjournments in memory. Please give your respectful attention to those who were granted prior permission to speak on their adjournment in memory.

Assemblymember Sharp Collins, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is both a privilege and a profound honor to speak today about a man who had an impact on our communities and our institutions, the honorable Leon Lawson Williams. I'm especially honored to be joined today by his children, Alisa Williams and Jeffrey Anderson, who carried forward his spirit and also his legacy.

Leon Williams was a World War II veteran who became more than just a leader. He was a trailblazer, a public servant and a champion for justice in the broader San Diego community, where overt racism was a persistent experience for Mr. Williams.

He was one of the first black people to purchase a home in San Diego's golden hills community in 1947, defying a whites only covenant for the area at that time.

He also became the first black person elected to the San Diego City Council in 1969, and later to the San Diego County Board of Supervisors in 1982, which was just recently filled with another supervisor during a special election. He broke barriers that had long excluded communities from democratic participation in our governance.

But breaking barriers was never the final destination for him. It was merely the foundation. His true legacy is etched in the policies that challenge the status quo, the lies he have uplifted from the margins in the city he dared to reimagine.

He knew that the strength of a city is measured not by its wealth, but by its commitment to its most vulnerable population. And so he fought relentlessly, not just for the representation, but for real power, the power in hands of putting the power in the hands of our people, ensuring that no voice, no struggle and no community was left unheard.

His leadership led to the expansion of the San Diego Public transit system, recognizing that mobility is a fundamental right that connects people to jobs, education and family. And Mr. Williams serves on that governing board for the region's public transportation agency in its first 29 years, meaning he was the founder of this in his first 29 years and chair DeBoer as Chairman for 12.

His work in transportation was so transformative that in 2011, at our Alma mater, because he was also at Aztec, the Metropolitan Transit System honored his legacy by renaming the San Diego State University Transit center as the Leon Williams Station.

Now, every time someone steps onto that platform, they are standing on the foundation of his vision and commitment to his community, because he talked about this transportation process for a very long time. Even after leaving elected office, he continued to mentor young leaders, advocate for civil rights and push for equitable policies.

His presence was a reminder that true leadership is not about power. But leadership is all about service. The southeastern San Diego area which he represented, which is my district, which is known as the 4th district, remains the heart of the black political power in this region. A testament to his lasting impact and leadership.

His dedication to equity and representation help pave the way for future generation of black leaders, many of whom now serve at every level of government. Today we have Henry Foster, who represents the community of San Diego. On the City Council. We have Monica Montgomery Stepp, who serves on the Board of Supervisors. We have Dr.

Akilah Weber Pearson, who represents the district within the California State Senate. And you have me, who I'm honored to be here and to be a part of his lineage, who represent the 79th district. But this very neighborhood has also served as a launching pad for our very own California Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley Weber.

So to further demonstrating the powerful legacy of Leon Williams, there are a few others that are also now holding elected offices throughout the City of San Diego. Today we do more than remember Leon Williams. And they're holding some beautiful photos of him. We honor him by continuing the fight he has so boldly waged.

His legacy is not just a chapter in history. His legacy is truly a call to action. He was a soft spoken man, but a powerful one. Leon Williams did not just navigate the system, he challenged it, he redefined it. And he demanded justice where there was none.

His impact stretched beyond San Diego, reaching all who dare to believe in equality, dignity and future. Where power serves the people. Simply put in the immortal words of Leon Williams. And he did say this quite often. Together we can do more.

So thank you to the Members representing San Diego and to the Legislative Black Caucus for coming together with me to give an honorable farewell to my friend, mentor, Mr. Leon Lawson Williams. He was 102.

Thank you, Assembly Member Sharp Collins. Assembly Member Ward, you are recognized for your adjournment in memory.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I also rise today in celebration of life of my constituent, the honorable Leon Williams, who, as you heard, recently passed away at the awesome age of 102. And I'm grateful for my neighbor and our colleague from San Diego for articulating many of his personal and professional accomplishments.

All those accolades are completely true and I wanted to share some of my own personal reflections with Mr. Williams. Because his reach was regional. He was a trailblazer and an example for so many.

As you heard, he served as the first black San Diego City Council Member of San Diego, where he also sought and served as the chair of our Metropolitan Transit District. He was the first black county supervisor, where he also sought and became the President of the California Association of Counties. And he was a lifelong civic leader.

Breaking those barriers, as you heard, made it impossible for so many others to be able to serve. Mr. Williams played a significant role in revitalizing our downtown and southeast San Diego neighborhoods. He led by his values and his integrity, operating always with grace, with strength and a belief of what was right.

He battled racism throughout his entire adulthood. When he came to San Diego in 1941 to serve in the Army Corps of Engineers, he was denied entry to the Hotel Pickwick, where the bellman told him, we don't serve your kind. So he stayed with a couch, on the couch of a friend.

He was only among a handful of black students admitted to then San Diego State College that decade. And he became, as you heard, the first black homeowner in the Golden Hill neighborhood at a time when the area was redlined north of State Route 94 and restricted to whites only because of the help of a bank loan.

In honor of his military service and even as a sitting Council Member, he was sitting in his car in Balboa park reviewing council agenda materials and was approached by a police officer with a gun drawn, demanding to know what he was doing in that neighborhood.

And when I was serving on San Diego City Council in 2017, I was privileged to have had my first nomination for an honorary street naming of afforded to him by establishing Leon Williams Drive to the block of E Street where he bought that home and where he lived until his passing.

In 2019, our county, in reflection of his character and accomplishment, established the Leon L. Williams Human Relations Commission to promote positive human relations, respect and the integrity of every individual, regardless of gender, religion, culture, ethnicity, sexual orientation and age or citizenship status, quote, unquote.

He is survived, of course, by his sister and three brothers, as well as 10 children and a host of great grandchildren, great grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. And I want to thank you, Mr. Williams, for setting a strong example of civic life for others to follow in your model. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Thank you, Assemblymember Ward, Assemblymember Boerner. You are recognized for your adjournment and memory.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. Today I rise to join my colleagues to adjourn in the memory of former San Diego City Councilmember and County Supervisor Leon Williams. A trailblazer, a civic leader, and the very definition of a dedicated public servant, Leon Williams saw California as the land of opportunity.

His family moved from Oklahoma to Bakersfield, and in 1941, he made his way to San Diego, where he served with the Army Corps of Engineers. He broke barriers. He was the first black homeowner, as you've heard, in the East Street neighborhood.

He was accomplished becoming the first black man to serve on the San Diego City Council and County supervisors, President of the California Associations of Counties, and board Member of the National Association of Counties. His work earned him the title of Mr. San Diego. And at 100 years old, San Diego County honored him with a lifetime achievement award.

Leon Williams will forever be a part of San Diego's history. His legacy of service, leadership and perseverance will live on for generations to come. Please join me and my colleagues in adjourning in his memory. Thank you.

Thank you, Assemblymember Boerner. Assemblymember Patel, you are recognized for your adjournment and memory.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to not only remember Leon Williams, but but to celebrate the powerful legacy that he leaves behind. A legacy that continues to shape San Diego and inspire generations to come.

Leon Williams was a man of firsts, as we heard, the first black City Council Member of San Diego, the first black county supervisor. But his impact goes far beyond these historic milestones described by my fellow Assembly Members from San Diego. His enduring legacy lies in the values he championed. Inclusion, opportunity and justice for all.

His dedication to public service transformed our city in profound ways. He was a driving force behind the development of public transportation, ensuring the San Diego trolleys served diverse communities and created greater accessibility for all residents.

The San Diego State University trolley station that bears his name is a reminding is a reminder of his vision for a more connected city. City beyond infrastructure. His leadership paved the way for economic growth and urban renewal, particularly in historically unserved neighborhoods. His efforts in community development continue to create opportunities for small businesses and families to thrive.

But perhaps his greatest legacy is the example he set. The example of perseverance in the face of adversity, of using one's voice to uplift others, and of believing that progress is not just possible, but it's necessary.

His work opened doors for future leaders, ensuring that San Diego continues moving forward, moving toward a future built on equity and inclusion. Leon Williams may no longer be with us, but his impact will be felt for generations.

It's now our responsibility to carry his vision forward, to build a community that reflects his unwavering commitment to justice and opportunity for all. And with that, I would like to adjourn in his memory. Thank you.

Thank you, Assemblymember Patel. Members and to the family of Leon Williams, let us observe a moment of silence to honor this trailblazing historic California. Members. Please bring the name to the desk to be printed in the Journal. All requests to adjourn in memory will be deemed read and printed in the Journal.

Moving on to announcements As a reminder, the State of the Judiciary address by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero will be held in the Senate chamber tomorrow at 10am Attendance is encouraged.

The following committees will meet today Budget Subcommitee 1 on Health at 2:30pm in Capitol Room 127 Budget Subcommitee 6 on Public Safety at 2:30pm in Capital Room 447 Revenue and Taxation at 2:30pm and Capitol Room 126.

Session schedule as follows Tuesday, March 18 check in session Wednesday, March 19 check in session Thursday, March 20 floor session at 9am seeing and hearing no further business, I am ready to entertain a motion to adjourn. Majority leader Aguarkoury moves. Mr. Lackey seconds that this House stands adjourned until Thursday, March 20 and 9am the quorum call is lifted and we are adjourned.