Assembly Floor

The assembly is now in session. Assembly Member Macedo notices the absence of a quorum. The sergeant at arms will prepare the chamber bringing the absent members. Clerk, call for roll.

[Roll Call]

Members. A quorum is present. We have a lot of people here today, so here we go. We ask our guests and visitors in the rear of the chamber and in the gallery to please stand for today's prayer. Assemblymember Johnson will be offering today's prayer. Assemblymember Johnson.

Good afternoon. Take a breath as we begin our prayers just here for a moment. It's a very busy morning. Very excited to be here with a roomful of wonderful folks. Gracious God, we pause at the opening of this day to acknowledge our dependence upon your wisdom and guidance.

We give thanks for the opportunity to serve the people of California and for the trust placed in us as we gather in this chamber. Today, we recognize California's Women of the Year. We express gratitude for the remarkable women who have gone before us, trailblazers, visionaries, and change makers who broke barriers, expanded opportunity, and opened doors for others. Among them, we recall those honored in the scriptures, including Sarah, the matriarch of nations, queen Esther, who risked her life in the halls of government to protect her people, and Mary, revered by billions for her character and for giving birth to raising Jesus of Nazareth. We give thanks as well for the women who strengthen our communities across the state today, leaders and mentors, mothers and daughters, neighbors and coworkers, educators and caregivers, public servants, first responders.

Many serve quietly, yet their wisdom, compassion, and dedication shape families, communities, and the future of our state and nation. We honor them today. We also recognize the women who serve here in the assembly, in our state Senate, in statewide positions, and our dedicated staff. Grant to us in this chamber now wisdom to discern what is right, humility to listen well, and courage to pursue the common good. May our deliberations be guided by respect for one another, integrity in our decisions, and a sincere desire to serve the people of California faithfully.

May our efforts contribute to the flourishing safety and well-being of all who call this golden state home. We ask this in your mighty name and for me personally, in Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

We ask our guests and visitors to remain standing and join us in the flag salute. Assembly member Pacheco will lead us in the pledge.

Thank you. Good afternoon, Members and honorees and guests. Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Ready, to be I pledge allegiance to the flag. Thank you. You may be seated. To our guests and visitors, today, state law prohibits persons in the chamber from interfering with legislative proceedings or disrupting the orderly conduct of official business. Persons disrupting these proceedings are subject to removal, arrest, or other appropriate legal remedies. Moving to reading of the previous day's journal.

Assembly chamber Sacramento, Tuesday, January 2020.

Leader Aguilar-Curry and miss San moves and miss Sanchez seconds at the reading of the previous day's journal be dispensed with. Presentations and petitions, there are none. Introduction and reference of bills will be deferred. Reports of committees will be deemed read and amendments deemed adopted. Messages from the governor, there are none.

Messages from the Senate, there are none. Moving to motions and resolutions, the absences of the day are as follows. For maternity leave, Assembly Member Celeste Rodriguez. For personal business, Assembly Member Irwin. And for illness, Assembly Member Jeff Gonzales. We'll move to our procedural motions. Madam majority leader, you are recognized for your motions.

Good morning, speaker. I request unanimous consent to suspend assembly rule 118 a to allow Majority Leader Aguilar-Curry, to have guests on the floor and in the rear of the chamber, to allow Assembly Member Calderon to have guests in the rear of the chamber, and to allow Assembly Member Lee to have a guest seated at his desk today.

Without objection, such shall be the order.

Done. Miss Sanchez, you are recognized for your motion. I move to suspend the rules to allow a j r 28 urging Congress to pass the Department of Homeland Security funding bill to be taken up without reference to file. I think I saw mister Demaio second. Is that right? Yeah. We have a second. And the motion is not debatable and requires 41 votes to suspend the rules. The clerk will open the rule. Miss Sanchez is asking for an Aye vote.

The Majority Leader is asking for a no vote. All members vote who desire to vote. Thank you, members. All members vote who desire to vote? Clerk will close the roll and tally the votes.

There are 43 Noes and 16 Ayes. The motion fails. We will now move to business on the daily file. Concurrence item file number one, we'll pass and retain on reconsideration file items two through four shall be continued. Moving to the assembly third reading file, We will pass and retain on file items five through nine.

We will pass temporarily. We'll pass temporarily on file item 10, ACR 153. We'll pass and retain on file item 11, ACR 154. Moving to file item 12, We will now move to the assembly's observance of women's history month, which is file item 12, house Resolution 81. Aguiar-Curry, the clerk will read.

House Resolution 81 by Assembly Member Aguiar-Curry relative to women's history month.

Assemblymember Aguiar-Curry, you are recognized open on the measure?

Thank you, madam speaker. On behalf of the Legislative Women's Caucus, I rise today to present house Resolution 81, proclaiming March 2026 as women's history month. This month is an opportunity to reflect on the often overlooked contribution of women throughout history. To acknowledge the barriers to accomplishments and how women persist to rise above to make society and our daily lives better. Even though we haven't always received credit where credit is due, women have always been a part of leading social movements that make our world a better place.

From suffrage to civil rights, to me too, and so many more, we get shit done. It's only been a little over a hundred years since women have had the right to vote and to serve in office. And as and in the in 1918, the first four women were elected to the California State Assembly. Elizabeth Hughes, Anna Sailor, Esto Broughton, and Grace Doris. But it took another half century to elect the first black and API women, Yvonne Burke and March Fong Yu.

And just forty years ago, the first Latina, Gloria Molina. Today, our state legislature more closely reflects California's diversity. We now have 59 women serving in the legislature. It just gives me chills. I'm not gonna lie. With 38 of them here in the assembly, the closest we've been to achieving gender parity. And very soon, we're gonna be a parody. Get ready. Get ready. We're coming your way, guys.

I'm incredibly proud of the work we've done to reach this point. In just over a hundred years since the first women were elected to the legislature, the members of the Legislative Women's Caucus continue to break glass ceilings, but we don't do it alone. Thank you. Thank you, mister speaker, for supporting women in this assembly, for recognizing our contribution and value, and appointing a historic number of women at community leadership positions. Thank you, mister speaker.

As we move forward to get the work done, we're united. We're united in our mission to end physical and sexual violence against women, discrimination, harassment in employment and education, and the economic disparities that still affect women and girls, which affect our society. We advocate for full participation of women for the same access and opportunities as men in every part of society. Politics, government, business, science, technology, sports, and academia. And while it's important we recognize how women have shaped the economic, cultural, and social fabric of our world, guess what?

We still have work to do. Here in the legislature and across California and nationally, this work is so important as we continue to protect people's rights, their privacy, and opportunities for a safe and affordable country. We owe it to our predecessors who fought for every inch of progress to ourselves and to our kids who will inherit what we have left what we leave behind. So So colleagues, I respectfully ask the first roll call to be open for co authors and I proudly ask for your Aye vote for one vote on HR 81.

Thank you. Thank you, Madam Majority Leader. Assembly Member, you are recognized on this matter. You can stand up and yeah.

Thank you, Madam Speaker and Members. I'm proud to stand up on behalf of the California Legislative Black Caucus as we recognize Women's History Month. This month is about honoring the women who broke barriers, open doors, and helped shape this very institution for the generations that follow. That history began in 1966 with Yvonne Burke, as mentioned by our majority leader, when she became the first black woman elected to the California legislature. She was followed by trailblazing leaders like Teresa Hughes, Maxine Waters, Gwen Moore, Diane Watson, and Barbara Lee.

We also recognize the leadership of Karen Bass, who made history as the first black woman to serve as speaker of the California State Assembly. Their legacy continued with leaders like Wilmer Amina Carter, Shirley Weber, our secretary of state now, Holly Mitchell, Sydney Kamlager Dove, and Autumn Burke. These women's leadership helped transform this legislature and paved the way for more women to step forward and lead, just as we had seen with Yvonne Burke and her daughter Autumn. It is a powerful powerful reminder that the doors opened by one generation can create opportunities for the next. As we celebrate women's history month, we honor their legacy, and we commit ourselves to building a future where every woman and every girl knows there is a place for her voice, her leadership, and her vision in shaping California.

Thank you.

Thank you, Assemblymember Elhawary. Assemblymember Addis, you are recognized on the matter.

Thank you, Madam Speaker and Members. I rise today on behalf of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus in support of HR 81 celebrating women's history and all of our women on the floor today. The Jewish Caucus is proud to recognize the leadership and accomplishments of women in California across The United States and within the Jewish community. Jewish women are central to Jewish cultural history, and this legacy goes back to some of the names you heard today in the prayer that was put forward from one of our members from Southern California. Matriarchs like Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah who built up the Jewish people.

And this month, we also celebrated Purim. And thank you to many of you who attended that event here in the capital city. Purim is about the Jewish hero Esther, who bravely stood up for her people and saved them from grave danger way back in the March. Across time immemorial, Jewish women have stood courageously for others and to advance important work, including women's suffrage, labor reform, civil rights, scientific advancement, literature, and health care. And Jewish women like Gertrude Elyon pioneered research to help produce one of the first effective treatments for childhood leukemia, saving countless lives and transforming modern medicine.

Emma Lazarus, who you know very well, author and poet who wrote the words that we rely on today that are proudly displayed on the Statue Of Liberty that say, give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to be free. And battling Bella Abzug who served three terms in Congress and advocating for groundbreaking bills that we still talk about today like the equal rights amendment and title nine. And of course, the beloved Ruth Bader Ginsburg, justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who we celebrated just last week, an icon and ardent defender of equal rights and reproductive choice on the Supreme Court. And then there's women here in California right now, so many in this room, and prior who were in our Jewish caucus who worked tirelessly to advocate for every single community that they are part of and our fierce allies to every single one of you in this room in your fight for justice. So we're proud to continue a long tradition by fighting alongside you for equality, for opportunity, and for the best of what we can become as a state and a nation.

And in that spirit and on behalf of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, I respectfully urge your support for HR 81.

Thank you, Assemblymember Addis. Assemblymember Colosa, you are recognized on the matter.

Thank you, madam speaker. Today, I rise in support of HR 81 on behalf of the Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus to recognize Women's History Month. Thank you to my colleague from Winters and the Legislative Women's Caucus for bringing this important resolution forward. Women today are thriving and making history in every space from sports and the courts and from labs to the halls of government. Women everywhere are innovating, inspiring, and shaping a world where opportunity and success know no bounds.

We see it in the Olympic trailblazers like Alyssa Liu, who had the courage to step away from a sport that she loves and to return stronger, reminding the world that resilience is just as powerful as talent. We see it in the arts and culture through artists like Olivia Rodrigo, who proudly embraces her Filipino heritage and uses her platform not only to entertain, but to lead. Speaking out and taking action on issues that matter and inspiring young women to use their voices for change. We see it in the inter in the entertainment and film industry through directors and cinematographers like Chloe Zhao, the first woman of color to win the Academy Award for best director and Autumn Archipel, the first Filipina American woman and woman to win an Oscar for cinematography just yesterday. Their powerful and authentic storytelling redefines what representation in Hollywood can look like.

We see it in the science through pioneers like Flossie Wongstall, whose groundbreaking research at my alma mater, UC San Diego, helped doctors and scientists better understand HIV and develop life saving treatments. We see it in our judicial branch through leaders like Chief Justice Chief Justice of California. And here in our state legislature, through leaders like Pro Tem Monique Limon, who made history as the first Latina and mom to become senate Pro Tem. Today, let us not just celebrate women, let us uplift them, pave pathways for them, and create opportunities where they can turn their dreams into reality. I'm so proud to stand with all of you and all the women, on the floor today for inspiring us and letting us know that not only are we powerful, but we are unstoppable.

And from my district, I'm really excited to give a special shout out to Maggie McCray, executive director of Vidiots Foundation, and embarrass her just a little bit on the floor today. So, with that, I respectfully ask for everyone's support for HR 81. Happy Women's History Month.

Thank you, Assemblymember Caloza. Assemblymember yes. Assembly Member Lee, you are recognized on the matter.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today on behalf of the California Legislative LGBTQ plus Caucus in support of HR 81 commemorating women's history month. Today, we honor the lives, contributions, and voices of the women past, present, and future whose courage and leadership have shaped our nation and expanded freedom for generation. It was women who threw the first bricks during the Stonewall uprising, igniting a global movement for LGBTQ plus liberation. It was women who organized, advocated, and provided life saving care at the height of the AIDS crisis, often when institutions failed and when silence was deadly.

And here in California, it was four trailblazing women, Carol Migden, Sheila Kuehl, Jackie Goldberg, and Christine Kehoe, who founded our legislative LGBTQ caucus in 2002, the first LGBTQ caucus in the entire nation, ensuring that our community would have a voice in these halls. If not for these visionary women and so many others whose names history does not always record, our LGB caucus would literally not exist today. I'd be remiss to not mention I'd be remiss to not mention that while our caucus was founded by four lesbians in 2002, our assembly for it does not have any lesbian representation today. A significant loss of lived experience and perspective in this body. It has been my sisters in LGBTQ caucus on whose shoulders we stand as we work to deliver from our constituents for all Californians.

As we uplift, celebrate, and stand in solidarity with all women, speaker and members, I respectfully request unanimous support for HR 81. Thank you.

Thank you, Assemblymember Lee. Assemblymember Ramos, you are recognized on the matter.

Well, thank you, madam chair. And today, I rise on behalf of the California Native American Legislative Caucus to support HR 81 recognizing women's history month. We continue in the tribal communities to lift up our women as my grandmother who was chairwoman Martha Manu Chacon for the Salmon Wow and the Mission Indians at that time brought running water and electricity to our reservation. So it's on the shoulders of the women, women chairpersons that tribal councils have flourished, and we too hold our women in strong revere. Too often, we fail to take account of what each of us contributes to our communities, state, and nation, and the difficult challenges we all have faced, but the resiliency of the things that we've overcome, supporting and standing side by side with the women of the state of California and this nation.

National Women's History Month was enacted by Congress in 1987 to acknowledge the significant contributions that women have made and continue to make. Women face discrimination, harassment, and violence at unforgivable rates, but they refuse to let that define them. The resiliency shows on this floor with all the women that have been elected to the state legislature to represent the voices of women in the state of California. In support, HR 81, we come together to honor the many women who have built our nation and shaped our lives and has made California a better state for being the voices of the women in our in our communities. I thank my colleague for bringing this resolution forward, and I urge unanimous support for HR 81.

Thank you, Assemblymember Ramos. Assemblymember Calderon, you are recognized on the matter?

Thank you, Madam Speaker. On behalf of the Latino caucus, I rise in strong support of HR 81 recognizing women's history month. The progress we've made as women is not by accident. It's a result of resiliency and a legacy of women who have paved the way and uplifted the next generation of leaders. A Latina had never set foot as an elected official in these chambers until the late Gloria Molina was elected in 1982.

Since then, 49 Latinas have been elected to the legislature. And just this year, we saw the first Latina elected to be the president of the California State Senate. Despite the growth and accomplishments we still we've made as women, we still have more to do. We must continue to work to close the wage gap, a gap most experienced by Latinas among all ethnic groups. And we will continue to work to see the day in which women in leadership, executive roles, and math and sciences is the norm and not the exception.

This Women's History Month, not only do we celebrate the accomplishments of women and Latinas, but we look towards a better future for women. And I just take like to take a moment to acknowledge my woman of the year. She's a trailblazer.

No. Miss Calderon. We can't do a guest introductions prior to the vote. I apologize.

Thank you. I respectfully ask for your Aye vote on HR 81.

We all have amazing women, but it is against the house rules to do guest introductions prior to a vote. So, apologize, but they will all be recognized by the reading clerk. Seeing and hearing no further debate on the matter, Assemblymember Aguirre, would you like to close?

I respectfully ask for your Aye vote in the first role to be open for roll call.

We will open the first role for co authors. The clerk will open the role. All members vote who desire to vote. All members vote who desire to vote. This is for co authors on the resolution members. All members vote who desire to vote. This is for co authors on the resolution. Clerk will close the roll and tell you that there are 74 co authors on the resolution. Without objection, we will now take a voice vote on the resolution. All those in favor, say Aye.

Aye. All opposed say nay. The Ayes have it. The resolution is adopted. We are now gonna move to recognizing Women's History Month by celebrating our honorees that are on the floor, all of the amazing women here across the state.

And I would like to say that as The United States was the sole nation to, vote no on the women's equity anti discrimination resolution at the UN women's conferences last week, it's a privilege to be standing here before each and every one of you as California does the opposite. As California celebrates women across this country, across the state, and takes a stand that our diversity is our strength. That what you bring to California is what makes this the great state that each of us wants to live, represent, and raise our families. So thank you for being here. Thank you for being Californians, and thank you for your contributions.

Madam Majority Leader, you are recognized.

Well, today, we take a break from our usual business to celebrate some remarkable Californians in recognition of Women's History Month. As Chair of the Legislative Women's Caucus, it's a pleasure and an honor to welcome our distinguished honorees today and their guests at the California State Capitol for California Woman of the Year. Today, we recognize and celebrate accomplished, amazing women from as each assembly district who do work day in and day out to make their communities and the Golden State better. To our honorees, thank you for your work and your leadership. In ways big and small, noticed and unnoticed, you inspire our communities.

It fills our hearts. You're all here celebrating with us today. Each of you are wonderful examples of what makes California great. In a state of over 39,000,000, you are one of a 120 exceptional women being recognized this year. You join a sorority of honorees who've received this recognition since the legislature started, doing it one day in March over three decades ago.

As honorees, each of you uniquely contribute to the lives of your fellow Californians, not for recognition, but for the good of others. You tirelessly improve your communities and you blaze trails. Which is no surprise because you blaze trails every day. Women are great at multitasking. You've broken barriers.

You've served as an inspiration for generations to come. Girls, with this honor comes responsibility. We must continue to mentor our next generation of women leaders. Take the time for supporting and guiding them. Give them mentorship you maybe didn't have before.

Give them what you wish they had. Encourage more women to run for elected office and support them through it. The more women leading on all issues that make our communities thrive, the more the policies and the politics of California will truly represent all people, including us women. In solidarity, we must make sure the contributions of the women who came before us and from those in this room won't be in vain. Congratulations to all of you for being Women of the Year.

On behalf of the Legislative Women's Caucus and everyone in the Assembly Chambers, we thank you.

Members and guests, we will now begin our ceremony to recognize our women of the year honorees. In keeping with previous tradition, members will be escorting their honoree in district order. At this time, the members representing Districts 1 through 10 should retire to the rear of the chamber. Our sergeants will notify the next group of members when it's time to line up. I ask that speaker Robert Rivas and Republican leader Heath Flora move to this front center aisle to receive the honorees.

Members, if you are not being honored at this moment, we'd ask that you take your seats, please. Thank you. The clerk will read the name of our first group of honorees.

Escorted by assembly member, Agriar-Curry, is Maricarmen Reyes Larios. Maricarmen Reyes Larios, born and raised in Sonoma Valley, leads with heart and deep community pride. Her career as a community resource connector and collaborator focuses on strengthening partnerships, building connections, and serving with dedication. Her work reflects a lifelong commitment to helping others and honoring her community, creating a meaningful impact. Please welcome, Marie Carmen Reyes Larios.

Escorted by Assemblymember Rivas is Marielena De La Garza. Born and raised in Watsonville, Marielena De La Garza is the CEO of the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County with more than 35 years of nonprofit leadership experience, a champion of equity and Latina leadership. She builds cross sector partnerships, Strengthens Community Voice, and advances opportunity for immigrants and low income families. Please welcome Margielena De La Garza. Escorted by Assemblymember Flora, is Sherilyn Barrows.

Sherilyn Barrows, a lifelong Oakdale resident, serves proudly as mayor and CEO of the Oakdale Chamber of Commerce, guided by her belief that her job is not to cover in Oakdale, but to survey. She champions local businesses, fosters community connection, and works tirelessly to help her hometown thrive. Please welcome, Sherilyn Barrows. Escorted by assembly member Hadwick is Tonya Dose. Tonia Dose has led the CSCU County Economic Development Council since 2005, rising to the challenge of advancing bold, often unexpected strategies in one of California's most rural counties.

She works alongside local partners to strengthen small businesses, working lands, and community vitality, proving rural communities can lead with innovation, resilience, and heart. Please welcome Tanya Dose. Escorted by Assembly Member Gallagher is Jenny Beaman. Jenny is a lifelong Californian, mostly in the Central Valley and Chico. She is active in suicide prevention after losing her husband of forty years.

She has happily worked for Target for 23 years. Jenny treasures her family, love, and God daily. She has two daughters, five grandchildren, and one great granddaughter. Please welcome Jenny Beeman. Escorted by Assemblymember Krell is Alice Montes.

Alice is a government relations advocate for SEIU UHW where she focuses on immigration initiatives, the workforce, and health care policy affecting health care workers across California. She is a strong community advocate participating in several local organizations. She earned her bachelor's degree from UC Davis and earned and received her master's from Pepperdine Law School. Please welcome Alice Montez. Escorted by assembly member Hoover is Ashley Fason Maddox.

Ashley Fason Maddox leads with the belief that serving the entire family is how we create generational healing and restoration. She founded Diamond Collective, a trauma informed community supporting survivors of human trafficking and their children. In 2025, Diamond Collective served over 50 survivors and to their families working to reduce social isolation and preventive reentry into exploitation. Please welcome Ashley Fason Maddox. Escorted by Assembly member Tangipa is Janae D'Ambrioso.

Janae D'Ambrioso is president of D'Ambrioso Trading Inc, operating a textile recycling company, diverting 27,000,000 pounds from landfills annually, generated unrestricted revenue for 350 organizations, and serving as an adviser for textile recovery legislation. Her role is to educate, advocate, and offer transparency to communities driven by a passion for sustainability and philanthropy. Please welcome Janae Di Ambrioso. Escorted by assembly member, Juan, is Kristen Huan. Kristen Huan is the CEO of My Sister's House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.

A passionate advocate and community leader, she advances culturally responsive services, strengthens partnerships, and champions equity, safety, and empowerment of underserved women and families. Please welcome, Kristen Henn. Escorted by assembly member Wilson is Ashley Porter. Ashley Porter serves as a sales manager at TEC equipment with more than ten years of experience in sales and transportation and is recognized for her strategic leadership and mentorship. Diagnosed with multiple scoliosis on 10/15/2022, She advocates passionately using her journey to raise awareness and support others navigating the challenges of MS.

Please welcome Ashley Porter. Escorted by Assembly member Connolly is Amarantha Silva. Amarantha is a community leader and community organizer with Parent Voices Marin. She advocates for her for families, especially mothers of color who are excluded from decision making, committed to supporting immigrant families in early childhood education. She connects parents with trusted legal resources and frequently testifies at local and statewide forums.

Please welcome Amarantha Silva. Escorted by Assembly member Ransom is Carol J Ornelas. Carol Ornelas is a visionary affordable housing advocate. As CEO of Visionary Home Builders of California for thirty years, she has led the development of over 1,700 homes across the Central Valley while expanding education, counseling, and pathways to sustainable home ownership. Please welcome Carol J Ornelas.

Escorted by assembly member Wicks is Yendi Reboo. Yendi is a Richmond community leader serving as the executive director of West Contra Costa County Meals on Wheels. As a first generation, low income, Latin student, she graduated from the University of California, Berkeley after attending LPS Richmond High School. She is extremely proud to serve the community that upheld her. Please welcome Yendi Escorted by Assemblymember Avila Farias is Ana Luisa Gonzalez Ortega.

Ana Luisa Gonzalez Ortega is a first generation Mexican American educator becoming her own advocate. She earned two degrees from Saint Mary's College. For For 29 years at Freedom High School, she has championed English learners, mentored thousands, and built lifelong relationships and service, advocacy, and deep commitment to educational equity. Please welcome Ana Luisa Gonzalez Ortega. Escorted by Assembly member Bauer-Kahan is Edna Collins Coleman.

Edna Collins Coleman is a lifelong champion for children's safety in our digital world. She is Common Sense Media's VP of communications, a member of Orinda Union School Board, and cofounder of All In Together. Edna is a proud mother of three and a graduate of Hampton and Georgetown universities. Please welcome Edna Collins Coleman. Escorted by Assemblymember Haney is Sonia Clark Herrera.

Sonia Clark Herrera is a San Francisco recreation and park commissioner, muralist, and cofounder of a nonprofit youth development organization, a nearly 25 year San Francisco resident. She is dedicated to public art, youth empowerment, and building inclusive community spaces through parks, culture, and creative place making. Please welcome Sonia Clark Herrera. Escorted by assembly member Bonsa is Jane Garcia. Miss Jane Garcia has served as CEO of La Clinica De La Raza since 1982, expanding organization into a $145,000,000 entity that provides comprehensive health care to more than 72,000 patients.

A passionate community advocate, she fights for accessible health care for all regardless of income of or immigration status. Please welcome Jane Garcia. Escorted by Assemblymember Stefani is doctor Pamela Michelle Tate. Michelle Tate Pamela Michelle Tate is a San Francisco native. She is an author, domestic abuse advocate, preventionist, speaker, and survivor.

She is passionate about policy and speaking out for the voiceless. She is a transformational leader who specializes in culturally responsive care that best serve survivors needs. Please welcome Doctor Pamela Michelle Tate. Escorted by Assemblymember Ortega is Rayna Lett. Rayna Lett is a nonprofit leader who exemplifies dedication to equity, youth, and community empowerment.

She serves as the national support services director at the Hidden Genius Project and cofounded Regina's Helping Hands, which serves Thanksgiving meals to hundreds in honor of her late mother. She launched workforce training programs for school aged black and brown girls. Please welcome Ray Nalitz. Escorted by assembly member Pappan is Dana Storer. Dana Storer, CEO of the San Mateo County Event Center is a visionary leader with more than 35 years and venue management to transform the center into a vital COVID nineteen response hub, advanced food security partnerships and champions, community resilience service and connections through San Mateo County.

Please welcome, Dana Storrera. Escorted by Assemblymember Alanis is Casey Young. Casey Young is the executive director of Stanislaus Regional 911 where she has led transformational change in public safety communications. A passionate advocate for leadership, innovation, and empowerment, she champions her team and community daily. Young is dedicated to elevating the profession and inspiring others to lead with courage and integrity.

Please welcome Casey Young. Escorted by Assemblymember Berman is Olga Talamante. Olga Talamante is a Chicana political activist and executive director, Emerita, of the California based Chicana Latina Foundation where she served from 2003 to 2018. Born in Mexico and raised in Gilroy, she rose to national prominence in the nineteen seventies when she was arrested and detained for sixteen months as a political prisoner in Argentina. Since her return to The United States, she has dedicated her life to supporting a variety of minority causes, LGBTQ plus rights, and worked rooted in social justice.

Please welcome Olga Talamante. Escorted by Assemblymember Lee is Thelma Bock. Thelma Bock is a Berryessa Union School Board Trustee and has been a lifelong educator for more than forty years, serving as both a teacher and principal at two of San Jose's local high schools. She is a community leader who was recognized as one of the 100 most influential Filipina women in The US. Please welcome Thelma Boch.

Escorted by Assemblymember Kalra is Kira Kasontis. Kira Kasontis is a lifelong nonprofit professional community leader and public servant. Before serving as CEO of the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits, she was a senior policy adviser in the City Of San Jose's mayor's office focused on housing and homelessness and previously served as a directing attorney at the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley, leading public interest, advocacy, and litigation. She holds a JD from the University of Michigan and lives in Downtown San Jose with her husband and daughter. Please welcome Kira Kasansis.

As quoted by assembly member, Erin, is Margaret Woodell Lawson. With more than three decades as a registered nurse, including with planned parenthood, Margaret Woodell Lawson has been a steadfast advocate for women's and reproductive health health. Now 92, she serves on the board of directors for Leadership Sunnyvale, supports the Sunnyvale Heritage Park Museum, teaches yoga, and is proudly known as Patrick's favorite constituent. Please welcome Margaret Woodell Lawson. Escorted by Assemblymember Soria, is Monica Bravo.

Monica Bravo Esquivel is an active community leader with a strong commitment to boosting civic engagement and improving the lives of families in Madera, California. In 2023, miss Bravo founded the Latinos Madera Club. The organization supports its community through monthly food drives and resource fairs. Please welcome Monica Bravo. Escorted by Assemblymember Pellerin is Filiq Phillips, founder of AWO Center and creative director of Aficionado Collective.

Filiq is a community organizer, strategist, and artist director committed to amplifying African diaspora voices and advancing health equity through arts, storytelling, and community rooted initiatives. She is focused on creating inclusive spaces, focusing on youth mental health and culturally grounded wellness solutions. Please welcome, Blake Phillips. Escorted by assembly member Addis is Yesenia Echevarria. Yesenia Echevarria is a Paso Robles community organizer and daughter of immigrant parents whose resilience inspires her work.

She founded Mujeres D'Accion in 2014, growing into a county wide effort that supports immigration and working class families through health and education, food distribution, language access, and crisis response. Please welcome Yesenia Echevarria. Escorted by Assemblymember Arambula is Veronica Garibay. Veronica is the cofounder and co executive director of Leadership Council for Justice and accountability, a San Joaquin Valley and East Coachella Valley nonprofit dedicated to working alongside the most impacted communities to advocate for sound policy, eradicate injustice, and secure equal access to opportunity regardless of wealth, race, income, or place. Please welcome Veronica Gadibai.

Escorted by Assemblymember Ellis is Lawrence Skidmore. Lawrence Skidmore is the dedicated CEO of the Open Door Network leading with courage and an unwavering commitment to individuals and families experiencing homelessness and survivors of violence. Beyond her professional calling, the role she chairs most is that of a devoted mother to her children, Harper and Lane, a wife to her husband Ryan, and a proud fifth generation rancher rooted in resilience and community. Please welcome Lauren Skidmore. Escorted by assembly member Macedo is Karen Bravo.

Karen Bravo was born and raised in Tuller, California. She graduated from Tuller Union High School and Fresno State University. Bravo started working at Dairymen's Cooperative Creamery Association, which is now Land O'Lakes In 1983 and has been for 43 years, she is married to Anthony Bravo and has two stepdaughters. Please welcome Karen Bravo. Escorted by Assemblymember Lackey is Danette Lyon.

Leon is a dedicated community volunteer. She organizes donation drives for the Palisade and Easton fires, collecting and distributing essentials to fire and police stations and assisting victims. She supports the buddy prom from special needs students, host a holiday pancake breakfast for deputies and their families, and actively backs local high school football teams, strengthening community pride and connection. Please welcome Danette Lyon.

Leon is a dedicated community volunteer. She organizes donation drives for the Palisade and Easton fires, collecting and distributing essentials to fire and police stations and assisting victims. She supports the buddy prom from special needs students, host a holiday pancake breakfast for deputies and their families, and actively backs local high school football teams, strengthening community pride and connection. Please welcome Danette Lyon.

Escorted by Assemblymember Baines is June Nachor.

June Nachor serves as a Vice Chairwoman of the Tejon Indian Tribe where she has secured transformative federal funding for victim advocacy with more than fifteen years of executive experience she leads with compassion, builds intertribal partnerships, and champions community service and culturally grounded support for tribal members. Please welcome June Nachor.

Escorted by Assemblymember Ellis on behalf of Assemblymember Jeff Gonzales is Peggy Price. Peggy Price serves as supervisor of Imperial County District 3. Price served for six years as Director of the Department of Social Services overseeing programs such as protective services, victim services, foster care and adoption, foster workforce development and training, continuum of care, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and in home supportive services. Please welcome Peggy Price.

Escorted by Assemblymember Hart is Primitiva Hernandez. Primitiva Hernandez is the Executive Director of 805 U—UndocuFund—where she leads one of California's most active immigration rapid response networks, service—serving—Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties. An immigrant—an immigrant from Mexico and a DACA recipient, Hernandez has lived on the Central Coast since childhood and is the daughter of farmworker parents. Please welcome Primitiva Hernandez.

I think there was a...

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We've made it through Santa Barbara. We're gonna take a quick moment. We'll be back at it.

Escorted by Assemblymember Bennett is Barbara Marcy Ortiz. An Oxnard based attorney with a 39-year career dedicated to farm worker advocacy and affordable housing, her efforts have resulted in 2,700 homes for farm workers and low-income families. She special—she specializes—in land youth and labor law while mentoring young women to become the next generation of legal professionals. Please welcome Barbara Marcy Ortiz.

Escorted by Assemblymember Carrillo is Rocio Castellanos. Rocio Castellanos is a dedicated public servant with more than a decade of experience in community advocacy and public service in the Antelope Valley. She oversees programs that promote mental health, physical health, health education, and community support throughout the Antelope Valley. She has been a proud resident of Lancaster for more than twenty years. Please welcome Rocio Castellanos.

Escorted by Assemblymember Schiavo is Jennifer Elkins. Jennifer Elkins is a mother, the president of the Val Verde Civic Association, and a community leader. When the Chiquita Canyon Landfill Fire impacted her community's health, she mobilized neighbors to demand protective action, including helping win the nation's strongest landfill emission standards. She also cofounded a nonprofit to advocate for land—for safe landfills nationwide. Please welcome Jennifer Elkins.

Escorted by Assemblymember Harabedian is Sheri Bonner. Sheri Bonner has served as president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Pasadena and San Gabriel Valley since 2004 and will retire this month. She has dedicated her life to fighting for women's health care and reproductive freedom while providing essential health services and screenings to thousands of patients. Please welcome Sheri Bonner. Escorted by Assemblymember Elhawary on behalf of Assemblymember Celeste Rodriguez is Maria Elena Solorio.

Council Member Maria Solorio is an elected member of the San Fernando City Council,proudly serving the city where she was raised. Elected in 2002 and a former Vice Mayor, she is a first generation Mexican American with a background in behavioral health and education, committed to advancing youth, families, and community well-being through regional leadership and public service. Please welcome Maria Solorio.

Escorted by Assemblymember Schultz is Rabbi Sarah Hronsky. Rabbi Sarah Hronsky is a Senior Rabbi of Temple Beth Hilil, a—and a respected leader in interfaith collaboration, Jewish communal safety, and social justice. She serves as President of the Los Angeles Council of Religious Leaders, immediate past president of the Board of Rabbis of Southern California, and is a fellow of the Shalom Hartman Ravnic Leadership Initiative. Please welcome Rabbi Sarah Hronsky.

Escorted by Assemblymember Ramos is Marsha Olguin. Marsha Olguin is a native of San Bernardino and the Director of Mary's Table, overseeing all food distribution and outreach services for the homeless. She began her tenure with Mary's Heaven. After a few years, she was promoted to Assistant Director of Mary's Table, then to Director. Please welcome Marsha Olguin.

Escorted by Assemblymember Gabriel is Noreen Bagley. Noreen Bagley is the Co-Executive Leader of the San Fernando Valley invisible and all-volunteer group focused on political activism and community service. A former business analyst, Bagley volunteered as a college counselor helping first generation students navigate the college application process. She and her husband have two daughters and a grandson. Please welcome Noreen Bagley.

Escorted by Assemblymember Wallis is Dr. Kelly May-Vollmar. Dr. Kelly May-Vollmar is the Superintendent of Desert Island's UnifiedSchool District serving 27,000 students across the Coachella Valley, a nationally—a nationally recognized leader in digital equity and a 2026 super superintendent to watch. She has spent more than twenty years bridging the divide between curriculum, technology, and student opportunity. Please welcome Dr. Kelly May-Vollmar.

Escorted by Assemblymember Rubio is Regina Sells-Arnold. As the Literacy Services and Adult Education Coordinator, Regina Sells-Arnold directs all activities for the Azusa City Library's lifelong learning programs including English as a second language, citizenship and naturalization classes, and career online high school. Sells-Arnold has successfully built a thriving adult education division while consistently advocating for a learner centered approach and proactively addressing the diverse needs of the community. Please welcome Regina Sells-Arnold.

Escorted by Assemblymember Fong is Cindy Kuo. Cindy Kuo is the founder of the MP Prashna Buddhist Mission through which she has devoted decades of humanitarian service.

Kuo's work was focused on uplifting families in Southeast Asia where she has raised funds to build schools and provide food to communities facing poverty. Her commitment to relieving suffering and also extends close to home. She was a top contributor to LA Regional Bank, reflecting her enduring dedication to serving those in needs, both locally and internationally. Please welcome Cindy Kuo.

Escorted by Assemblymember Garcia is Megan Telles. Megan Telles is Co-Anchor of the KTLA five weekend morning news and an Emmy award winning journalist. A proud Southern California native, she was recognized in 2024 as the most influential Latina journalist by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists and champions education through her school spirit spotlight segment. A devoted wife and mother of two, Telles leads with heart and community impact. Please welcome Megan Telles.

Escorted by Assemblymember Zbur is Judy Abdo. Judy Abdo, Santa Monica's first openly LGBTQ Mayor, advanced renters' rights, social services, and LGBTQ equality. As a Santa Monica Council Member, Mayor, and longtime civic leader, she strengthened women's and children's programs, expanded community support networks and shaped Santa Monica's progressive policies through decades of public service, advocacy, and grassroots leadership. Please welcome Judy Abdo.

Escorted by Assemblymember Caloza is Maggie Mackay. Maggie Mackay is the Executive Director of Vidiots and respected leader in the film industry.

Formerly the Senior Programmer of the Los Angeles Film Festival and Director of Nominations for the Independent Spirit Awards, she has championed independent cinema for over a decade. Since 2016, Mackay has led Vidiots's acclaimed revival, reopening the beloved video store, and restoring the historic Eagle Theater as a vibrant community hub in Northeast East Los Angeles. Please welcome Maggie Mackay.

Escorted by Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez is Captain Alyssa Bostrom with 23 years at the Pomona Police Department. Captain Alyssa Bostrom leads investigative services, a veteran of patrol gangs, crisis, negotiation, and command roles.

She modernized operations through the RTIC, achieving a 100% homicide solvability in 2025, restructuring trafficking enforcement, rescuing 24 victims, including 20 juveniles, and strengthening community trust through leadership. Please welcome Alyssa Bostrom.

Escorted by Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez is Raquel Roman. Raquel Roman has served as executive director of Proyecto Pastoral since 2021, leading incredible growth rooted in community and culture. As a proud Latina, she has expanded the organization's impact and played a foundational role in the Boyle Heights rapid response network, ensuring immigrant families receive protection, resources, and advocacy following ICE raids.

She previously directed the Guadalupe Homeless Project and launched LA County's first shelter for senior women. Please welcome Raquel Roman.

Escorted by Assemblymember Calderon is Gale Kaufman. Gale Kaufman, a leading California political and strategic consultant was appointed by Speaker Willie Brown as the first woman to serve as Director of the Office of Majority Services. She later founded one of California's first woman owned political consulting firms, playing a central role in shaping California's education, funding, and workers' rights. Please welcome Gale Kaufman.

Escorted by Assemblymember Elhawary is Alisha Jackson. Alisha Jackson, a lifelong South Los Angeles resident and mother is a transformative leader advancing equity in health, education, and community governance. She serves as Director of Government Affairs and community engagement at Saint John's Community Health, championing policies and expanding accessing—expanding access and uphold dignity, opportunity, and justice for all. Please welcome Alisha Jackson.

Escorted by Assemblymember Castillo is Colette Lee. Colette Lee, a Riverside real estate professional for more than thirty years founded Tower Realty in 1989, now expanded with Family Tower Agency and co-owns Citrus Heritage Escrow. A Cal Baptist graduate, she has passionately served her community through numerous sports, arts advocacy, education initiatives, and awards focusing on empowering children and building a stronger Riverside. She lives here—she lives there with her husband and family. Please welcome Colette Lee.

Escorted by Assemblymember Chen is Shiree L. Colton. Shiree Colton has served AOCDS since 1994, dedicating her career to philanthropic leadership. As Office Manager, she oversees major fundraising events and memorial fund initiatives, helping raise more than 20—2.5 million—to support fallen law enforcement officers, their families, and officers statewide facing catastrophic needs. Please welcome Shiree L. Colton.

Escorted by Assemblymember Jackson is Elizabeth Vallejo. Elizabeth Vallejo proudly sits on the Paris City Council and served on the Paris Union High School District Board. In her professional role at the Riverside County Office of Education and as Vice President of the Moreno Valley Paris Democratic Club, she champions women, economic diversification, and youth civic engagements. Please welcome Elizabeth Vallejo.

Escorted by Assemblymember McKinnor is Faizah Malik. Faizah Malik is a Managing Attorney at Public Council where she has fought for renters' protections and affordable housing in Los Angeles, including advocating for the return of Bruce Beach. Malik is a daughter of immigrants and was born and raised in Southern California. She graduated from Brown University and the University of Michigan Law School. Please welcome Faizah Malik.

Escorted by Assemblymember Solache is Maricela Parga. Maricela Parga is the founder of...United Women's Actively Serving, based in Paramount. Her vision grew from gatherings of mothers seeking to strengthen their family lives and communities, evolving into a trusted organization that empowers women through education, wellness, leadership, and collective service. Please welcome Maricela Parga.

Escorted by Assemblymember Johnson is Mary Carnes. Mary Carnes is a lifelong Menifee community leader who promotes the arts and feeds families through the Menifee Community Cupboard. She organizes showcases and fundraisers for local nonprofits, serves with civic groups, volunteers widely, and is an ambassador for the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce, building community connections through outreach and events. Please welcome Mary Carnes.

Escorted by Assemblymember Pacheco is Regina Donahue. Regina Donahue is a retired educator and corporate secretary for the Mary R. Stafford Foundation overseeing 428,000 in scholarships and grants. Recently completing her fifteenth year as a Miss Downey Court Chaperone, Donahue serves on the TLC board and the Downey Unified School District.

Married to Paul, a proud mother and granddaughter to Lennon and Riley, she believes volunteering is truly a work of the heart. Please welcome Regina Donahue.

Escorted by Assemblymember Gipson is Candace Leos Valdepena. Candace is a proud Compton native and community organizer who founded Compton Advocates Coalition in 2019. To educate and empower residents, she serves on the Women's Commission for the 65th Assembly District, sits on local nonprofit boards, and works as a Subcontractor Administrator for CHIRLA.

Candace is a wife, mother, and granddaughter. Please welcome Candice Leos Valdepena. Candace is a wife, mother, and granddaughter. Please welcome Candace Leos Valdepena.

Escorted by Assemblymember Muratsuchi is Constance Sullivan. After serving with the Peace Corps, Connie Sullivan earned her doctor of public health and worked for the County of Los Angeles conducting statistical health care analysis for twenty five years. In retirement, she volunteered for five years with the district attorney's office focusing on elder abuse.

Since 2015, Sullivan has advocated for climate change legislation as a citizen's climate lobbyist. Please welcome Constance Sullivan. Escorted by Assemblymember Quirk Silva is doctor Cynthia Olivo. Doctor Cynthia Olivo, president of Fullerton College, is a first generation college graduate and granddaughter of migrant farm workers whose journey shapes her equity driven leadership. With nearly thirty years in higher education, she has advanced student success statewide, led led majority student services initiatives, and serves in key statewide leadership roles in championing opportunity, access, and excellence.

Please welcome doctor Cynthia Olivo. Escorted by Assemblymember Valencia is Janice Heckel. Janice Heckle has served as a nonprofit and municipal leader for more than 35 years. Through her leadership, she has advanced community centered programs, public private partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives throughout Orange County. Heckel is the executive director of Anaheim Community Foundation, which supports community based programs and services, organizations that help Anaheim residents.

Please welcome Janice Heckel. Escorted by Assemblymember Lowenthal is Charmaines Morales. Charmaine Morales was elected UNAC secretary in 2013. In this capacity, she built membership growth and services, launched membership matters, organized Hawaii workers, and helped Maui health system staff gain a voice. Rising to precedent, she advances safety and mental health equity, championed racial justice, and holds leadership roles across labor and community groups.

Please welcome Charmaine Morales. Escorted by Assemblymember Sanchez is Kim Garish. Kim Garish helped transform Michelle's place into a fully operational nonprofit by building its programs, partnerships, and fundraising efforts. Michelle's place has grown from a small breast cancer resource service into the region's only all cancer resource center providing thousands of patients with free programs, education, and individualized support and care. Please welcome Kim Garish.

Escorted by Assemblymember Dixon is Annie McCary. Retiring as a nurse practitioner after forty years in health care, Annie McCary embarked on a new path of service. She volunteered as a receptionist at City Hall, served on the HOA board of directors, and was elected to the Laguna Woods City Council becoming the city's first American African American mayor. Please welcome Annie McCary. Escorted by Assemblymember Petrie Norris is Linda Sadighi.

Linda Sadighi is a designer and entrepreneur best known as the owner of the LAB Anti Mall, one of Southern California's most distinctive retail destinations. She has reshaped Orange County's commercial landscape by championing small businesses, local artists, historic preservation, and creative community building, the LAB stands today as a beacon for female entrepreneurs and a must visit stop on any Costa Mesa itinerary. Please welcome Linda Saraghi. Escorted by assembly member de Mayo is Larissa Scores Anderson, Always climbing mountains including Kilimanjaro, Larissa Scores Anderson brings a big picture lens to her sixth consecutive year as president of

The Bonsal Unified School District Community Sponsor Group, championing student-centered public education excellence, the arts, and strategic semi-rural stewardship. Please welcome Larissa Sporris Anderson. Escorted by Assemblymember Patel is Meg Storer. Meg Storer is an exceptional leader who helped build 211 San Diego over the past two decades into essential community infrastructure connecting hundreds of thousands of San Diegans each year to critical resources 24/7. And in times of emergencies, she embodies the work of 211 San Diegans helping San Diegans.

Please welcome Meg Sturer. Escorted by Assemblymember Boerner is doctor Julie Ducharme. Doctor Julie Ducharme is a transformational leader, educator, and founder and CEO of LEAD and EMPOWER HER, She Talks, a global women's empowerment movement. Through her unwavering commitment to service, mentorship, and community building, Ducharme has positively impacted the lives of thousands of women across The United States and internationally. Please welcome Doctor.

Julie Ducharme. Escorted by Assemblymember Ward is Vicky Estrada. Vicky Estrada is a landscape architect and urban designer and the president of Estrada Land Planning. She has served on numerous boards and committees and is currently on the California Arts Council and president of the Groundwork San Diego Board. She is best known for her work on Baloba Park.

Please welcome Vicky Estrada. Escorted by Assemblymember Sharp Collins is Reverend Alice Smith Cooper, an African American ancestral storyteller, actor, nurse, and ordained minister who uses storytelling for healing and cultural understanding. She performs widely, leads diversity and motivational training, serves as a hospital chaplain, and empowers communities through folklore, spiritual care, and transformative public engagement. Please welcome Reverend Alice Smith Cooper. Escorted by Assemblymember Alvarez is Joanne Fields.

Joanne Fields is a dynamic advocate for Filipino Americans, AAPI communities, and underserved residents in San Diego, director of the Filipino Resource Center and API initiative leader, Fields mobilizes crisis response, advances policy, builds coalitions, and champions cultural visibility. A proud Filipina and mother, she empowers communities through leadership and service. Please welcome Joanne Fields.

Members, you can find more information about our 2026 women of the year in the program on your desks. On behalf of chair Aguiar Curry and the members of the California Legislative Women's Caucus, thank you for helping us commemorate women's history month. We applaud and appreciate the contributions of this year's honorees and the women across our state and the nation. As our honorees exit the chamber, please join me in congratulating them with another round of applause. Thank you all.

And thank you to your family and friends in the gallery who I know are a huge part of how you do what you do every day. I'm being told that we would like you to stay on the floor. Oh, members. Yes. Members need to stay.

We are not adjourning. We actually have an additional vote, many votes. So our guests are welcome to leave, but members, you please stay. And to be clear, if your guests wanna stay, they have permission to stay at your desk. And members, the floor will be open for additional pictures after we adjourn session.

So your honorees are welcome to come back and take additional pictures after we adjourn. Okay. Members, we are going to move back to business on the daily file. Members, we are still in session. We need to move back to business on the daily file. Thank you. We'll move back up to file item 10, ACR 153. The clerk will read.

Assembly Concurrent Resolution 153 by Assembly Member Calderon and others, relative to Irish American Heritage Month.

Thank you. Assembly Member Calderon, you are recognized on the matter.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today as a member of the Irish Legislative Caucus to present ACR 153, designating March as Irish Heritage Month. There are-- yes.

There are 35 million Americans of Irish heritage, which is approximately 10% of the U.S. population. Tomorrow, many will celebrate Saint Patrick's Day, wearing their best shades of green. But we should also celebrate 102 years of diplomatic relations with the country of Ireland and their significant contributions in our nation.

The impact in our nation began with the Great Irish Famine of 1840s, which brought over a million Irish men, women, and children to the United States. Through determination, hard work, and belief, these immigrants helped shape our country and state.

Irish immigrants made up the bulk of the workforce on the Transcontinental Railroad, which is one of the greatest engineering achievements in American history. Twenty-three presidents of the United States have been of Irish heritage. In California, Irish Americans have served as governors, legislative leaders, city mayors, and other public officials.

Ireland is the fifth largest investor in California's economy, contributing millions of dollars of investment in our businesses and our communities. Our relationship continues to grow and move forward as Ireland's foreign minister for finance visited our state in January to solidify our relationship and plan for future partnership.

Ireland has been a great partner, and the people of Irish descent are proud of their rich history and tradition. By designating March as Irish Heritage Month, we are able to take a moment to highlight the diversity of our state and country while showing the importance of our relationships with our allies here in California. Thank you, members, and I respectfully request an aye vote for ACR 153 and for the first roll to be open for co-authors.

Thank you, Assembly Member Calderon. Assembly Member Haney, you are recognized on the matter.

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I rise today in support of ACR 153 in honor of Irish American Heritage Month and 102 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Ireland. The story of the Irish in America and in California is one of resilience, determination, hope, and solidarity.

The Great Irish Famine of the 1840s brought more than a million Irish men, women, and children to the United States, and many of them were drawn to California. From the earliest days of our state's history, the Irish were here as builders, entrepreneurs, public servants, pioneers, labor leaders, and elected officials.

In San Francisco, by 1880, nearly one-third of the city's population was Irish born, and the city's first foreign-born mayor, Frank McCoppin, was himself an Irish immigrant. Today, the descendants of the Irish diaspora continue to shape our country and our state. Approximately 31.5 million Americans now report Irish ancestry, and globally, nearly 80 million people claim Irish descent.

The bonds between California and Ireland remain strong. There are more than 900 U.S. companies operating in Ireland, and six of the ten largest foreign direct investors in Ireland are headquartered here in California.

And, of course, this week, alongside hundreds of millions of people around the world, we celebrate Saint Patrick's Day. Legend tells us that Saint Patrick used the three-leafed shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity, which is why the shamrock remains such a powerful and enduring symbol of Irish heritage today.

This past weekend, San Francisco hosted its annual Saint Patrick's Day parade, one of the oldest and largest on the West Coast, and the city's first parade took place in 1851. So for more than 170 years, it has brought communities together in celebration of Irish heritage and culture. So I will close today with a traditional Irish blessing often shared on Saint Patrick's Day.

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 field. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand. Happy Saint Patrick's Day.

Thank you. Assembly Member Ahrens, you are recognized on the matter. I'm wondering if your honoree is also Irish. Go ahead.

Hi, Madam Speaker. Thank you so much. As the only Patrick in the Legislature, I wanna wish everyone a happy Saint Patrick's Day, I wanna thank the member from San Francisco for his much more eloquent words than me, and I wanna especially thank our member from Whittier, and I strongly encourage an aye vote for ACR 153.

Assembly Member Bryan, you are recognized on the matter.

Yes. Happy Saint Patrick's Day. I also rise in support. I just think it's also important that we reflect on the Irish immigrant story here in America. I think there are a lot of parallels to immigrant stories today.

The Irish were not initially welcomed with open arms into this country. In fact, our racial segregation and derogatory and disenfranchisement in our laws applied to Black folks and Irish folks when they first arrived. As a result, policing also disproportionately impacted Irish immigrants-- vagrancy laws, drunkard laws, public disturbance laws, targeted specifically at Irish communities.

In fact, many of you may not know today, a police car is often referred to as a paddywagon because of that history. I learned that from James Comey, the former director of the FBI, an Irish immigrant, who gave a speech about this dark history between immigration and policing.

And I just want us to be cognizant of the fact that our country can evolve. We can welcome people with open arms. We can move from bigotry and hatred and targeting towards an inclusive society. We've done it for immigrant communities in the past, and we should probably do it for immigrant communities today, and I respectfully ask for your aye vote.

Thank you, Assembly Member Bryan. Seeing and hearing no further debate on the matter, Assembly Member Calderon, would you like to close?

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I respectfully ask for an aye vote on ACR 153.

Would you like the first role to be open for co-authors?

Yes.

Clerk will open the roll for co-authors on the resolution. All members vote who desire to vote. This is for co-authors on the resolution, if you can vote no on a co-author. All members vote who desire to vote. This is for co-authors on the resolution. All members vote who desire to vote. This is for co-authors on the resolution.

Clerk will close the roll and tally the vote. There are 70 co-authors on the resolution. Without objection, we'll 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 will pass and retain on File Items-- I think I passed and retained on File Item 11. File-- I'll pass and retain on File Item 13 and 14. Moving to the Third Reading file Senate bills, we'll pass and retain on File Items 15 through 19.

Moving to a vote on the Consent Calendars, File Items 20 through 21. Does any member wish to remove an item from the Consent Calendar? Seeing and hearing none, the clerk will read the Second Day Consent Calendar.

Assembly Bill 1597 by Assembly Member Castillo, an act relating to notary public.

Clerk will open the roll on the consent calendar. All members vote who desire to vote. All members vote who desire to vote. All members vote who desire to vote. All members vote who desire to vote. Clerk will close the roll and tally the vote. There are 69 ayes and zero nos on the consent calendar. Clerk will read the remaining item on the consent calendar.

AB 1549.

Aye 69, no zero. On the urgency, and Aye 69, no zero on the matter. Moving to announcements, members following committees meet today upon adjournment, Budget subcommittee six in Capital Room 447 and revenue and taxation in Capital Room 126. Session schedule is as follows, Tuesday, March 17, check-in session. Wednesday, March 18, check-in session. We'll be back here Thursday, March 19 at 9am for floor session.

Seeing and hearing no further business, I'm ready to entertain a motion to adjourn. Majority leader Aguiar Curry and Miss Sanchez moves and Miss Sanchez seconds that this house stands adjourned until Thursday, March 19 at 9AM. Qurom call is lifted and we are adjourned.