Transcript Highlights:

• Alan, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blake Speer, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes,
• Moving to item 47, SR 89, Alvarado-Gil. Item 47, SR 89, Alvarado-Gil, from the Majority's Desk.
• Senate Resolution 89 by Senator Alvarado-Gil, relative to Profound Autism Day.
• Alvarado-Gil? Aye. Archuleta? Aye. Aye. Aye. Alvarado-Gil? Aye. Archuleta? Aye. Adig? Aye. Ashby?
• Senator Alvarado-Gil, you have guests to introduce. Thank you again, Mr....

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then moved through a series of guest introductions, including Canadian diplomatic visitors and youth soccer champions from Senator Niello’s district. The body also recognized guests connected to arts education and later heard adjournment-in-memory tributes for Caitlin “Katie” Mallet and Roxanne Miller. The President announced the Senate would enter a one-week spring recess and return on April 6, 2026. On the floor, the Senate adopted SR 89 by Senator Alvarado-Gil, recognizing March 17, 2026 as Profound Autism Day in California. Supporters emphasized the need for greater awareness, research inclusion, and services for people with profound autism and their families. The resolution passed by a 35-0 vote. The Senate also adopted SCR 147 by Senator Allen, proclaiming March 26 as Arts Education Month, with remarks stressing the value of arts education for creativity, engagement, and student success; it passed 37-0. The chamber then adopted SCR 141 by Senator Wahab, recognizing March 26, 2026 as Women’s Equal Pay Day. Senators discussed the gender pay gap, its impact on families, and the need for transparency and enforcement; the resolution passed 37-0. The Senate also approved AB 2156, an urgency measure to proclaim March 31 as Farm Worker Day, with extensive debate about farm workers’ historical contributions, labor conditions, and the decision to rename the day in light of recent allegations involving the prior honoree. The bill passed unanimously, 37-0, including the urgency clause. Finally, the Senate adopted the consent calendar, which included SB 968, SJR 11, SB 1005, and SB 1080, by unanimous vote. A committee announcement noted Budget Subcommittee 3 would meet upon adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alan, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blake-Speer, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi, Cortese
• Moving to item 47, SR 89, Alvarado-Gil. Item 47, SR 89, Alvarado-Gil, from the Majority's desk.
• Senate Resolution 89 by Senator Alvarado-Gil, relative to Profound Autism Day.
• Senate Resolution 89 by Senator Alvarado-Gil, relative to Profound Autism Day.
• Alvarado-Gil. Aye. Archuleta. All right. Aye. Aye, Alvarado-Gil. Aye, Archuleta. Aye, Adrin?

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Moving to item 47, SR 89, Alvarado-Gil.
• Item 47, SR 89, Alvarado-Gil, from the Majority Leader's desk. Secretary, please read.
• Senate Resolution 89 by Senator Alvarado-Gil, relative to Profound Autism Day.
• Senate Resolution 89 by Senator Alvarado-Gil, relative to Profound Autism Day.
• Alvarado-Gil? Aye. Archuleta? All right. Aye. Aye, Alvarado-Gil. Aye, Archuleta. Aye, Adigian.

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, heard a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then moved through several guest introductions, including a Canadian diplomatic delegation visiting for Canada Day at the Capitol and the undefeated Under-11 San Juan Spirits soccer team. The chamber also recognized guests connected to later resolutions, including families and advocates tied to profound autism and farm worker issues, as well as arts education leaders. The Senate adopted SR 89, recognizing March 17, 2026 as Profound Autism Day, after remarks emphasizing the need for greater awareness, research inclusion, and lifelong services for people with profound autism and their caregivers. Members also adopted SCR 147, proclaiming March 26 as Arts Education Month, with support focused on the value of arts education for creativity, engagement, and student success. Both resolutions passed by unanimous or near-unanimous roll call votes. The chamber then took up AB 2156, an urgency measure renaming Cesar Chavez Day as Farm Worker Day and proclaiming March 31 as Farm Worker Day. Supporters from multiple caucuses and regions spoke about the history of farm labor, the contributions and sacrifices of farm workers, and the need to honor the broader movement and its diverse participants; some speakers also referenced recent allegations and the desire to center survivors and workers rather than one individual. The bill passed with 37 ayes and 0 noes, including the urgency clause. The Senate also adopted a consent calendar of several items without objection, then adjourned in memory of Caitlin Mardell Mallet and Roxanne Miller. The session concluded with announcements of a committee meeting and a one-week spring recess, with the next floor session scheduled for April 6, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Allen, Alvarado Gil, aye, Archeletta. Artigine, aye, aye, Ashby, aye.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Daly, aye. Jones, aye. Ochoa Bogh, Pérez, Rubio. Rubio, aye.
• Senator Alvarado-Gil at the Majority Leader's Desk. Thank you, Mr. President.
• Thank you, Senator Alvarado-Gil, and welcome to the guests.
• Alvarado-Gil. Aye. Archuleta. Thank you. Aye. Aye. Alvarado-Gil. Aye. Aye. Archuleta. Aye. Aye.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Gil, for being here.
• Gil for being here. Um, could you Dr. Gil for being here.
• </c><00:06:20.880><c> Gil.
• Gil. Sorry, I was just Thank you, Mr. Gil.
• Gil. Any other &gt;&gt; Great. Thank you, Mr. Gil.

Bills: HB0045

Keywords: property tax, exemption, homeowners, long-term, aged, 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado-Gil? Present. Alvarado-Gil, present. Ashby? Becker? Grayson? Grayson, present.
• Alvarado-Gil? Ashby? Becker? Grayson? Aye. Grayson, aye. 3-0. The vote is 3 to 0.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Ashby, Becker, Grayson, aye. 3-0. The vote is 3-0.
• Senators McNerney, Alvarado-Gil, no. Alvarado-Gil, no. Ashby, Becker, Grayson, aye. Becker, aye.
• Vice Senator Alvarado-Gil, you are recognized. Thank you.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado-Gil present. Ashby, Becker, Grayson? Grayson present.
• Alvado Gil, present. Ashby, Becker, Grayson. Grayson, present.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Ashby, Becker, aye. Grayson, aye. Three to zero.
• Senators McNerney, Alvarado-Gil, no. Alvarado-Gil, no. Ashby, Becker. Grayson, aye. Becker? Aye.
• Vice Senator Alvarado-Gil, you are recognized.

Summary: The committee heard several bills focused on public health, wildfire recovery, local finance, transportation, and rural health care. SB 1124 by Senator Archuleta would require the California Department of Public Health to create and post signage at tobacco retail locations about lung cancer screening eligibility. The author and a UC San Diego thoracic surgery resident testified that lung cancer screening is underused because many Californians do not know it exists, while retailers and convenience store groups raised implementation concerns about sign size, store space, and notice before penalties. Members discussed penalties and screening access, and the author said he was willing to reduce the penalty in later amendments. The bill passed 4-0 and was sent to the Committee on Health. The committee also considered several disaster-related tax measures. SB 1352 by Senator Valadao and Senator Allen would clarify that wildfire victims can rebuild homes up to 110% of the original size without losing their Proposition 13 base-year value, and it received support from the Los Angeles County Assessor, the California Association of Realtors, and the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association. SB 1343, presented by Senator Allen on behalf of Senator Dahle, would create a $4,000 income tax credit for sales tax paid on furniture and appliances purchased after a disaster for a primary residence; the chair raised concerns about administration and benefits flowing to higher-income households, and CTA opposed. Both bills were approved and sent to Appropriations, with SB 1352 passing 5-0 and SB 1343 passing 5-0 after committee amendments were accepted. SB 1172 by Senator Hurtado would place limits and transparency requirements on consultant compensation in local tax-sharing agreements, responding to examples from Shafter and Dinuba where local revenue was allegedly diverted to consultants. The city of Shafter, League of California Cities, and California Retailers Association supported the bill, while some members worried it could infringe on local control; the author and sponsor argued it would protect local tax dollars without eliminating local discretion. The bill passed 4-0 and went to Appropriations. SB 1408 by Senator Arreguín would authorize Contra Costa Transportation Authority to place a countywide sales tax measure of up to 1% on the ballot to continue transportation funding; supporters included transit agencies and county officials, while Howard Jarvis and the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association opposed. The committee emphasized that the measure only lets voters decide, and the bill passed 4-1. The committee also took up SB 1404 by Senator Stern, which would restore a fee on property owners in state responsibility areas to help fund Cal Fire wildfire prevention and suppression, with the author saying he wanted to reduce administrative costs and work on hardship protections. NRDC and PG&E supported the concept, while rural county representatives, Howard Jarvis, and Butte County opposed, arguing the fee would unfairly burden rural and fixed-income residents and function like a tax. Members split over affordability and local impacts, but the bill passed 4-1. Finally, SB 1102 by Senator Dodd would create a $2,000 tax credit for frontline nurses working in rural hospitals; supporters said it would help retention and access to care in underserved areas, and the bill passed 5-0 after committee amendments were accepted. The consent calendar and other listed bills were also approved on unanimous or near-unanimous votes.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alan, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi
• Allen, Alvarado Gil, aye, Archeletta. Artigine, aye, aye, Ashby, aye.
• Senator Alvarado Gil at the Majority Leader's desk. Thank you, Mr. President.
• Thank you, Senator Alvarado-Gil, and welcome to the guests.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Archuleta, aye. Aye. Aye. Alvarado-Gil, aye. Aye. Archuleta, aye. Aye. Aye. Aye.

Summary: The Senate opened with a prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, then took up several resolutions and guest introductions, with much of the session focused on commemorations and recognitions. Senate Resolution 87, by Senator Archuleta, marked the 111th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. Archuleta and other senators spoke in support of remembrance, historical recognition, and concern for Armenians facing current threats and displacement. The resolution was adopted by a 37-0 vote, and the chamber also welcomed members of the Armenian community and other guests. The Senate also adopted SR 93 by Senator Cortese honoring Jim Plunkett’s football career and legacy as a California and Latino sports figure. Senators highlighted his Heisman Trophy, Super Bowl victories, and recent selection for the NFL Hispanic Football Hall of Fame. The resolution passed unanimously. Later, SCR 124 by Senator Wiener recognized transportation barriers faced by Californians with epilepsy and the importance of reliable transit for employment and independence; it was adopted by unanimous roll call. SCR 158 by Senator Allen declared April Arts, Culture and Creativity Month and celebrated the 50th anniversary of the California Arts Council, with remarks emphasizing the state’s arts economy and the Council’s history; it also passed unanimously. The Senate further adopted SCR 159 by Senator Alvarado-Gil designating April as California Rodeo Appreciation Month. Supporters described rodeo as part of California’s agricultural and Western heritage, noted its economic impact, and highlighted the roles of Black cowboys, women competitors, and rural communities. Each resolution was followed by introductions of related guests, including Armenian community members, Jim Plunkett and family, epilepsy advocates, arts leaders such as Luis Valdez and Cheech Marin, and rodeo representatives and titleholders. After the resolutions, the Senate handled the daily file and adopted the consent calendar 38-0. The body also approved the Senate journals for April 13-16, 2026, announced committee meetings, and acknowledged Senator Menjivar’s upcoming birthday. The Senate then recessed until its next scheduled floor session on Tuesday, April 23, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senator Alvarado-Gil. Yeah.
• Rubio, Alvarado-Gil, aye.
• Absent members: Rubio, aye; Alvarado-Gil; Archiletta, aye. Rubio, aye. Alvarado-Gil.
• Absent members Alvarado-Gil, Hurtado. Hurtado, aye. Padilla, aye. That bill is 14.0.
• Absent members Alvarado-Gil, Hurtado. Aye. Hurtado. Aye. Padilla, aye. That is 14-0.

Summary: The committee heard several bills focused largely on regulatory oversight, food insecurity, state symbols, immigration-related funding, and ethnic media outreach. SB 885 and SB 986 would require major regulations with estimated economic impacts over $50 million to come back to the Legislature for review; supporters said this would restore accountability and help address affordability, while opponents warned it would delay health, safety, and worker protections. SB 1025 would create an Office of Food Security and Affordability to coordinate food programs across state departments, expand outreach, run a hunger hotline, and analyze service gaps; members generally supported the goal but urged stronger reporting and oversight language. SB 1214 would designate the Western monarch as California’s state butterfly, and SB 1178 would designate the California yellow jacket as the state wasp, with testimony emphasizing conservation, ecology, and agricultural benefits. SB 1286 would recognize the California sea lion as the state pinniped, with supporters citing its role as a sentinel species and conservation success story. SB 1171 would make private entities that contract with ICE ineligible for state-funded grants or loans; supporters framed it as a response to ICE conduct, while opponents raised concerns about unintended impacts on contractors providing essential services and possible federal retaliation. SB 1358 would create the Ethnic and Community Media Equity Act to improve state advertising and outreach to ethnic and community media through a database and contracting requirements, with supporters arguing it would improve effectiveness and reach underserved communities. Several bills were advanced on committee votes, many with roll calls held open for absent members. SB 885, SB 986, SB 1025, SB 1214, SB 1178, SB 1286, and SB 1171 all received motions to do pass, with some members noting support but also urging amendments or guardrails, especially on timing, reporting, and oversight. The committee also took up a consent calendar of multiple items after quorum was established.

Transcript Highlights:

• Allen, Abarado Gil, Archiletta, Aragueen, Ashby, Becker, Blakspier, Caballon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choy
• Arreguín Gil. Cervantes. Choi. Urtado. Limon. Ochoa Bogh. Oh. Limon. Ochoa Bogh. Aye. Aye. Aye.
• Alvarado Gil. Archuleta. Aye. Blakespear. Aye. Cervantes. Choi. Cabaldon. Aye. Cervantes. Choi.
• Alvarado-Gil. Cervantes. Hurtado. Padilla. Rubio. Aye. 36. Rubio. Aye. Aye, 36, no zero.
• Alvarado-Gil, Cervantes, Daly. Aye. Hurtado, Padilla. Valadares. Ayes 35, no zero.

Summary: The Senate convened with quorum, observed a moment of silence for Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert M. Marzan, and heard a prayer and pledge. Senator Perez introduced representatives of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, highlighting the organization’s community role and estimated economic impact from the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl. The chamber then approved the Senate journals and confirmed three gubernatorial appointments: C.N.R. Lomeli to the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, and C. Don Clay and Joshua Pertula to the University of California College of Law, San Francisco Board of Directors. All three confirmations passed by unanimous roll call votes. The Senate adopted several resolutions. SCR 120 by Senator Grayson designated the first week of March as National Consumer Protection Week and March 5 as Slam the Scam Day, with support from Senators Choi and Becker emphasizing scam awareness, senior fraud, data broker concerns, and consumer education; it passed 36-0. Grayson also introduced law enforcement and Secret Service representatives involved in recovering a Pleasant Hill resident’s $350,000 lost to a cryptocurrency scam. SCR 126 by Senator Grove proclaimed March 9, 2026, as Special Olympics Day in California and passed 35-0, with remarks from Grayson about the organization’s impact and personal connection. SR 79 by Senator Nilo designated the week of March 8 as Sleep Health Awareness Week, focusing on the health risks of sleep deprivation and daylight saving time; it passed by unanimous roll call. SCR 135 by Senator Laird declared the first week of March as Peace Corps Week, with support from Senator Choi reflecting on Peace Corps service and its global impact; it also passed unanimously. SR 83 by Senator McNerney recognized March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, stressing early screening and disparities in outcomes; it passed unanimously. After the resolutions, McNerney introduced colorectal cancer advocates and survivors who were present in the chamber. The Senate then moved to adjournment in memory, with Majority Leader Ashby honoring Paul McAley, father of lobbyist Chris McAley, and Senator Rubio honoring Robert Uyoha of Chino, a Navy veteran and longtime community servant. The session concluded with notice that the Senate would reconvene on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 9 a.m., with recess until 3:30 p.m. for the adjournment motion.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado-Gil, Ashby, Becker. Becker present. Grayson present.
• Senators Alvarado-Gil, Ashby. Aye. Ashby, aye. Becker, aye, aye. 4-0.
• Senators Alvarado-Gil and Ashby, aye. Becker. Chair voting aye.
• Senator Alvarado-Gil and Ashby, aye. The vote is 4-0. The bill is out.
• Senators Alvarado-Gil and Ashby, aye. The vote is 4-0. The bill is out.

Summary: The committee heard and advanced several tax-related bills, beginning with AB 760, which would exempt settlement payments tied to the Garden Grove chemical incident from California income tax. The author and a school district trustee described evacuations, school closures, and losses to residents, businesses, students, and staff, arguing the payments should make victims whole rather than be taxed. There was support from the Orange County Board of Supervisors, no opposition, and the bill passed 3-0 to Appropriations, with committee amendments accepted. Members then heard AB 2319, creating a California post-production tax credit for film and television work done in-state, even when principal photography occurred elsewhere or the project did not receive the existing film credit. The author and supporters from the Motion Picture Editors Guild, California Post Alliance, and others said post-production jobs and facilities are leaving California and that the bill would help retain high-wage work; opponents were not present. The committee members generally supported the measure, and it passed 3-0 to Appropriations. AB 2186 followed, excluding future reparations benefits for descendants of formerly enslaved people from state income tax. The author and NAACP California-Hawaii State Conference said taxing such benefits would undermine reparative justice; there was no opposition, and the bill passed 3-0. The committee also heard AB 762, which would ban the sale of disposable nicotine vapes and add enforcement tools. Supporters, including waste, recycling, local government, and public health groups, said disposable vapes create fire hazards, waste problems, and costs for local agencies; opponents argued the bill would mainly eliminate the legal market while leaving illicit products untouched and urged stronger enforcement instead. The author accepted committee amendments adding CDTFA enforcement, but the bill was not voted on because a motion was pending and members were absent. Later, AB 1519, AB 2172, AB 2222, AB 1793, AB 2089, and AB 1265 were heard and each received support from committee members and passed 2-0 or 3-0 to Appropriations, with amendments accepted where noted. AB 1519 clarified that the 20-year tax collection statute of limitations should not be reset by later fees or penalties; AB 2172 would let large counties use a single assessment appeals commissioner for complex property tax appeals; AB 2222 would create a temporary tax credit for local news organizations to retain and hire journalists; AB 1793 would authorize symmetrical cash rounding to the nearest nickel after the federal penny phaseout; AB 2089 would streamline the welfare exemption filing process for affordable housing; and AB 1265 would extend and revise the historic building tax credit to encourage adaptive reuse for housing and mixed-use projects.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado-Gil: no. Archuleta: aye. Arreguín: aye. Ashby: aye. Becker: aye. Blakespear: aye.
• Avarado-Gil. Aye. Arreguín. Aye. Archuleta. Aye. Ashby. Aye. Becker. Aye. Blakespear. Aye.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Arreguín, aye. Archuleta, aye. Ashby, aye. Becker, aye. Blakespear, aye.
• Alvarado-Gil. Aye. Daly. Aye. Niello. Aye. Ayes 37, noes 0, and the measure passes.
• Alvarado-Gil. Aye. Daly. Aye. Niello. Aye. Aye. Ayes 37, noes 0, and the measure passes.

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, offered prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then moved through motions, appointments, and third-reading bills. Senator McNerney moved SB 1011 to the inactive file. The chamber confirmed Preston Prince to the California Housing Finance Agency Board and Stephanie Landrugin to the State Mining and Geology Board, both by recorded vote. The Senate also adopted a large consent calendar and later announced budget subcommittee meetings before adjourning House of Origin work for the year. Several policy bills passed unanimously or with broad support. SB 1050 by Senator Ashby requires disclosure when advertisements use synthetic performers created by AI. SB 1393 by Senator McGuire updates fisheries management, including Dungeness crab rules and steelhead trout provisions. SB 995 by Senator Pérez creates stronger oversight for involuntary residential facilities, including immigration detention and secure youth treatment facilities. SB 1025 by Senator Hurtado establishes an Office of Food Security and Affordability to improve coordination of food assistance programs. SB 1266 by Senator Stern changes how copper wire theft damages are valued, SB 1211 by Senator González clarifies authority for conviction integrity units, and SB 1302 by Senator Wahab reauthorizes the Board of Registered Nursing. The most debated measure was SB 1373 by Senator Grove, which would narrow mental health diversion eligibility and exclude certain serious offenses, especially crimes against children and other violent conduct. Supporters, including Senator Rubio and the Senate Public Safety chair, argued it preserves treatment access while restoring public safety guardrails; the bill passed 32-0. SB 1181 by Senator Hurtado, aimed at youth safety and coordination on threats such as trafficking and online exploitation, drew discussion over the removal of fusion centers from the bill; several senators supported the amended approach while others wanted more detail, and it passed 33-0. The Senate concluded by noting it had dispensed with 341 bills during the month and announced the next floor session for June 1.

Transcript Highlights:

• Allen, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Adrin?
• Allen, aye, Alvarado-Gil, aye, Archuleta, aye, Arteaga?
• Allen, aye; Alvarado-Gil; Archuleta, aye; Arreguín, aye; Ashby, aye; Becker, aye; Blakespear, aye; Cabaldon
• Alvarado-Gil, Caballero, aye; Troy, aye; Daly, Gonzales, aye; Grove, Jones, Limón.
• Alvarado-Gil. Please call the absent members.

Summary: The Senate opened with a quorum call, prayer, and the Pledge of Allegiance, then recognized guests including young authors selected for publication and leaders involved with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. The chamber adopted SCR 138, recognizing Architecture Week, with the author highlighting California architects’ work on climate resilience, energy efficiency, wildfire safety, and housing innovation, and noting the underrepresentation of women in the profession. The resolution passed unanimously, 32-0. The Senate also confirmed two gubernatorial appointments. Francisco Kim was confirmed to the California Acupuncture Board by a unanimous 28-0 vote. Davina Hurt was confirmed to the California Water Commission by a 26-7 vote after supportive remarks from Senator Becker, who cited her experience on the Belmont City Council and the Air Resources Board. The body also approved the Senate journals, pulled SCR 124 from the consent agenda, and announced upcoming committee hearings after adjournment. The remainder of the session was devoted to adjournment-in-memory tributes. Senator Wiener honored Andrea Schroeder, describing her long career in LGBTQ advocacy, women’s leadership, civic service, and political organizing in San Francisco and beyond. Senator Arreguín remembered Country Joe McDonald for his music, anti-war activism, and Berkeley ties, and Senator Hurtado honored Brenda Joe Martin for her community leadership in Lamor and work with local business and civic organizations. The Senate then recessed with plans to reconvene on April 9, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Allan, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes,
• Alvarado Gil. Choi. Daly. Grove. Jones. Niello.
• Alvarado Gil. Archuleta. Aye. Arteguine. Thank you. Aye. Alvarado Gil. Archuleta. Aye. Arteguine.
• Alvarado Gil. Choi.
• Alvarado Gil? Choi? No. Grove? No. Pérez? Smallwood-Cuevas? Ayes 28, no 0.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognized several guests, including students from Flores High School’s Law Academy, a fourth-grade class from Holy Spirit School, and Brigadier General Nick Brown of Marine Corps Installation West and Camp Pendleton. Members also handled routine floor business, including removing AB 1389 from the inactive file at the author’s request. The chamber then considered two gubernatorial appointments. Andrew Rakestra’s appointment to the Board of Environmental Safety and Indira Cameron Banks’ appointment to the Civil Rights Council were both presented by Senator Reyes and confirmed by roll call votes of 28-0. Committee announcements followed, including upcoming budget subcommittee meetings on resources, health and human services, judicial branch funding, and state administration. The Senate also took up adjournment-in-memory tributes. Senator Archuleta honored Yoshi Nakamura, a Japanese American World War II veteran, educator, artist, and community activist, and Senator Blakespear honored Dr. Rosemary George Strayley, a global public servant and advocate for women and girls. The Senate expressed condolences and directed that Nakamura’s name be memorialized. The session then recessed, with the next meeting announced for Monday, March 2, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• Allan, Alvarado Gil, Archeletta, Artigine, Ashby, Becker, Blakespeare, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes
• Alvarado Gil. Choi. Daly. Grove. Jones. Nilo.
• Alvarado Gil. Archleta. Aye. Arreguín. Aye. Artegine. Aye. Aye. Becker. Aye. Cabaldon. Aye.
• Alvarado Gil. Choi. Thank you. Aye. Aye. Aye. Aye. Seyarto? No. Smallwood-Cuevas? Stern? Aye.
• Alvarado Gil. Choi. Thank you. Alvarado-Gil? Choi? No. Grove? No. Pérez? Smallwood-Cuevas?

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, offered prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognized several guests, including students from Florence High School’s Law Academy, a fourth-grade class from Holy Spirit School, and Brigadier General Nick Brown of Marine Corps Installation West/Camp Pendleton. The chamber also handled routine business, including a motion to remove AB 1389 (Rubio) from the inactive file. The main floor action was on two gubernatorial appointments. Andrew Rakestra was confirmed to the Board of Environmental Safety by a vote of 28-0, and Indira Cameron Banks was confirmed to the Civil Rights Council by a vote of 28-8. Senators also announced upcoming budget subcommittee meetings on resources/environmental protection/energy, health and human services, judicial branch funding and court facilities, and state administration/general government. The Senate then took up adjourn-in-memory tributes. Senator Archuleta honored Yoshi Nakamura, a World War II veteran, educator, artist, and community activist whose life included service in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team and decades of teaching in Whittier and at Rio Hondo College. Senator Blakespear honored Dr. Rosemary George Strayley, a longtime international development and women’s rights advocate who served in the Peace Corps, worked with major global institutions, and co-founded Run Women Run. The Senate expressed condolences and agreed to memorialize both individuals.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado-Gil. Here. Alvarado-Gil, present. Ashby. Becker? Here. Becker, present. Grayson? Here.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Ashby, Becker, Grayson. The bill is now on call.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Ashby, Becker, Grayson, 2.0.
• Alvarado-Gil: no. Ashby: aye. No. Alvarado-Gil: no. Ashby: aye. Becker? Grayson: aye.
• Alvarado-Gil: no. Senators McNerney: aye. Alvarado-Gil: no. Ashby: aye. Becker: aye. Grayson: aye.

Summary: The committee heard several tax and revenue-related bills. SB 1277, by Senator Grove, proposed a California Cost of Living Tax Credit modeled on the 2022 middle-class tax refund to provide direct relief to low- and middle-income Californians facing high housing, fuel, and utility costs. Supporters argued it would help families struggling with affordability, while opponents, including the California Tax Reform Association and CTA members, said California’s tax system already provides relief and that the bill would reduce General Fund revenue and harm schools. After extended debate, the bill was put on call and later failed on a 1-4 vote, though reconsideration was granted. SB 1287, by Senator Retado, would create a performance-based tax credit for short-line rail investments; supporters said it would improve freight efficiency, safety, emissions, and rural access, while opponents preferred direct grants. The bill was placed on call and later passed 5-0 to Transportation. SB 1407, by Senator Archuleta, would exempt military retirement pay and survivor benefits from state taxes; the author, State Treasurer Fiona Ma, and veterans’ groups said it would help retain veterans and their economic contributions in California, while CTA and CTRA opposed on General Fund grounds. The bill passed 5-0 to Military and Veterans Affairs. SB 1349, by Senator Gonzalez, would direct the LAO to review major tax expenditures for effectiveness and impacts on schools and the budget; CTA and CTRA supported it as a way to increase accountability, and it passed 4-1 to Governmental Organization. SB 1120, by Senator McNerney, would extend the California Competes Tax Credit through 2035 and make credits refundable for certain strategic industries; business and industry witnesses said this would help startups and manufacturers monetize credits and attract investment, and it passed 5-0 to Appropriations. SB 1275, also by Senator McNerney, proposed converting the state sales tax on vehicle purchases into a deductible vehicle license fee to reduce Californians’ federal tax burden; the LAO provided technical testimony, and the bill passed 4-0 to Transportation. The committee also heard SB 1078, by Senator Laird, to let Santa Cruz County voters consider a temporary local tax increase for health and safety-net services, but it was put on call. Later, the committee returned to SB 1314, by Senator Min, addressing youth tobacco and illicit smoke shop sales, but the transcript cuts off before final action on that bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado Gil. Archuleta here. Archuleta here. Ashby. Blake Spear here. Weber Pearson here.
• Alvarado-Gil. Archuleta, aye. Ashby. Blake Spear, aye. Cervantes. Dahle, aye. Hurtado.
• Alvarado-Gil. Archuleta, aye. Ashby, aye. Rubio, aye. Valderas, aye. Alvarado-Gil. Archuleta, aye.
• Alvarado-Gil. Archuleta, aye. Ashby. Blake Spear, aye. Slaves, aye. Cervantes, aye. Hurtado.
• Alvarado-Gil. Archuleta, aye. Archuleta, aye. Archuleta, aye. Ashby, aye. Blake Spear, aye.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado-Gil. Archuleta, aye. Ashby. Blakespear, aye. Cervantes. Dahle, aye. Hurtado.
• Alvarado-Gil. Archuleta, aye. Ashby. Blakespear, aye. Cervantes. Daly, aye. Hurtado.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Archuleta, aye. Ashby. Blakespear, aye. Cervantes, aye. Hurtado.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Archuleta, aye. Ashby. Blakespear, aye. Cervantes, aye. Hurtado.
• Alvarado-Gil, aye. Archuleta, aye. Ashby. Blakespear, aye. Cervantes, aye. Daly, aye. Hurtado.

Summary: The Senate Governmental Organization Committee heard several bills, beginning with AB 2294, which would designate April 14 as Sylvia Mendez Day in honor of the Mendez v. Westminster civil rights case. Assembly Member Ta and supporters from the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce and HACU described the case’s role in ending school segregation in California and influencing Brown v. Board of Education. Committee members from both parties spoke in strong support, and the bill was later approved 13-0. The committee also heard AB 2412, which would require state agencies to disclose when generative AI is used in public announcements and provide a way to reach a human employee. The author and California Civil Liberties Advocacy said the measure is about transparency and public trust, not banning AI. The bill was moved forward and ultimately passed 12-1. AB 2663, a sunset extension for the law allowing cocktails-to-go, drew support from the California Restaurant Association, a restaurant owner, and industry groups, who said it has helped small businesses and should continue; it passed 13-0. AB 2731 would expand the number of Type 47 liquor licenses available in Santa Cruz County, with licenses reserved for Watsonville and other communities to support small businesses and reduce inflated secondary-market costs. Supporters included Santa Cruz County and the city of Watsonville, and the bill passed 13-0. AB 2751 would standardize the personal importation limit for alcohol brought into California from outside the United States, addressing a disparity at land borders; it also passed 13-0. Several items were initially held on call because the committee lacked a quorum, but after members returned, the committee completed roll calls and adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alvarado-Gil. Aye. Archuleta. Aye. Ashby. Becker. Aye. Blakespear. Aye. Cabaldon. Caballero.
• Senate Bill 1234 by Senator Alvarado-Gil, relating to juveniles.
• Senator Alvarado-Gil, you are recognized. Thank you.
• By Senator Alvarado-Gil and relating to juveniles. Senator Alvarado-Gil, you are recognized.
• Senator Alvarado-Gil moves a call.

Summary: The Senate met with a quorum present, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then proceeded through appointments, resolutions, and bills. Governor’s appointments for Dina Eltawasi as Caltrans Director, Allison Salt Install to the Court Reporters Board, Olivia May Assumption to the California Commission on Disability Access, and William Adams to the California Exposition and State Fair Board were presented and later confirmed after roll calls and lifting of calls. The chamber also took up several third-reading measures and resolutions, including SCR 143 honoring Hmong and Laotian special guerrilla unit veterans, SR 96 recognizing National County Government Month, SB 1347 clarifying stocking of albuterol in public schools, SB 977 requiring chain restaurants to offer at least one healthier children’s meal, SB 1234 requiring fentanyl testing when juvenile dependency drug testing is ordered, SCR 161 designating Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, SR 101 replacing Senator Jones on the Rules Committee with Senator Ochoa Bogh, SB 1111 addressing liability for unauthorized AI-generated digital replicas, and SCR 128 establishing High School Voter Education Weeks. Each of these measures was presented by the author, generally received supportive remarks, and passed by roll call, with calls later lifted and the votes confirmed. During debate, Senator Umberg emphasized the long-overdue recognition of Hmong and Laotian veterans who served in covert missions during the Vietnam era, and Senator Archuleta echoed that tribute on behalf of the Military and Veterans Committee. Senator Cortese and Senator McGuire spoke in support of SR 96, highlighting the role of counties in delivering public services and warning about the impact of federal cuts on health and human services. Senator Niello described SB 1347 as a cleanup measure extending existing albuterol stocking authority to all public schools, including preschool. Senator Weber Pearson argued SB 977 would improve children’s nutrition options at chain restaurants, while Senator Alvarado-Gil said SB 1234 would help keep fentanyl out of homes by ensuring court-ordered drug testing includes fentanyl. Senator Weber Pearson also presented SCR 161 on maternal mental health, citing high rates of pregnancy-related depression and anxiety and barriers to care. Senator Ashby presented SR 101 and SB 1111, the latter aimed at unauthorized AI-generated voice and likeness replicas, and Senator Pérez presented SCR 128 to encourage voter education for high school students. After the floor actions, the Senate adopted the consent calendar, with Senator Cervantes removing SB 1381 from consent. Committee announcements followed, including upcoming Budget Subcommittee meetings. The session concluded with Senator Wiener’s adjournment in memory of disability rights activist Alice Wong, whose advocacy and writing were remembered by the chamber. The Senate announced its next floor session for Monday, May 4, 2026, at 2 p.m., and then recessed until later that afternoon for adjournment proceedings.

Transcript Highlights:

• Alan, Alvarado-Gil, Archuleta, Arreguín, Ashby, Becker, Blakespear, Cabaldon, Caballero, Cervantes, Choi
• Arrata Gil. No, Archelaire. Thank you. The roll. Allen. Archuleta Gil. No, Archilera. Aye. Aye.
• Avarado Gil.
• Avarado Gil.
• Avarado Gil. Secretary, please call the roll. Allen. Aye. Avarado-Gil. Aye. Archuleta. Aye.

Keywords: 987, senate, all