Relative to the Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Captain Tim Rodriguez, and Pilot Tony Sousa Memorial Highway.
Summary
Assembly Concurrent Resolution 37 designates a segment of State Route 10 in Riverside County, from the Malki Road undercrossing to the East Cabazon Ramp overcrossing, as the Assistant Chief Josh Bischof, Captain Tim Rodriguez, and Pilot Tony Sousa Memorial Highway. The resolution is a commemorative measure honoring three CAL FIRE personnel who died in a helicopter collision while fighting the Broadway Wildland Fire in Cabazon on August 6, 2023. The bill’s findings recount their careers, service histories, and surviving family members, emphasizing that their sacrifices should not be forgotten.
The resolution also asks the California Department of Transportation to determine the cost of installing appropriate highway signs and to erect them only if nonstate donations cover the cost. As a concurrent resolution, it does not create a new regulatory program or alter criminal, civil, or administrative standards; its practical effect is limited to an honorary highway designation and related signage on the state highway system. The measure was chaptered as Resolution Chapter 130, Statutes of 2025.
Impact
ACR 37 affects state law by adding an official memorial designation to a defined portion of State Route 10 in Riverside County and by directing Caltrans to assess and, if privately funded, install commemorative signs. It does not impose a state funding obligation because the signage is contingent on donations from nonstate sources. The bill primarily impacts the state highway naming and memorial-sign process, as well as the families, colleagues, and communities associated with the honored CAL FIRE personnel.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around the bill was strongly supportive and commemorative. The measure advanced through the Legislature on consent calendars and received unanimous votes at each recorded stage, indicating broad bipartisan agreement and little opposition. The tone of the bill text is solemn and laudatory, focusing on public service, sacrifice, and remembrance.
Contention
There was no notable substantive contention reflected in the available record. The only practical issue implied by the resolution is the cost and placement of memorial signage, but the bill addresses that by requiring donations from nonstate sources before signs are erected. Because the measure is honorary and noncontroversial, it moved quickly through committee and floor votes without recorded dissent.
Relating to the designation of portions of the state highway system as memorial highways, to certain memorial markers on certain highways, and to the installation of highway signs for certain cultural attractions.