Dear Friends and Neighbors,

April has come to a close, and for me personally, it marks another trip around the sun. I’m grateful to celebrate another birthday doing what I love most: representing the Central Coast and fighting to uphold the values that make California a beacon for the nation. Over more than four decades of public service, one truth has remained constant — democracy thrives when we stay engaged. This month, that spirit was on full display as millions across the country participated in the “Hands Off!” rallies, including thousands who gathered right here in Santa Cruz. Together, we stood in opposition to the overreach of the Trump Administration and in defense of our civil rights, our freedoms, our environment, and our democratic institutions. In the 17th District, we have already seen federal cuts to vital departments and agencies such as NOAA, the Social Security Administration, and the US Forest Service that serve many constituents that I represent. It’s inspiring to see the power of collective action so alive in our communities — a clear reminder that even in challenging times, when we raise our voices together, we move towards a better future.

We’re also channeling that same energy and determination right here in Sacramento. I want to sincerely thank Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas for bringing a strong delegation of local officials from Santa Clara County and the Monterey Bay area to the Capitol this month. Together, we discussed how California is standing firm against attempts to roll back critical protections — including proposed cuts to Medicaid, public education, and environmental safeguards. We remain ready and resolute to push back against draconian measures that threaten the well-being of everyday families across our state.

As always, thank you for being part of the ongoing work to protect our communities and strengthen our democracy. There’s a lot happening this spring, and I look forward to keeping you updated on the work ahead both in Sacramento and back here at home.
 

Warm Regards,

JOHN LAIRD
Senator, 17th District

What an incredible honor it was for the California State Senate to welcome the legendary Dolores Huerta to the Senate Floor — not only to celebrate her lifelong contributions to the Golden State, but also to commemorate her 95th birthday. Dolores’s legacy as a tireless advocate for civil rights, labor rights, and social justice has shaped California and inspired generations across the nation. I’m especially proud that my office has had the privilege of hosting the very first Dolores Huerta Legislative Fellows through my alma mater, UC Santa Cruz, and we are fortunate to continue that tradition today with another fellow carrying her spirit forward. Dolores remains a trailblazer whose courage, activism, and vision will be celebrated for generations to come. Her visit was a powerful reminder of the impact one determined individual can have on the lives of so many.

As California moves forward in its goal for a clean energy future, despite ongoing pushback from the federal administration, I am grateful that my bill SB 283, the Clean Energy Safety Act of 2025, passed out of the Senate Energy and Utilities Committee with bipartisan support.

SB 283 ensures stronger safety standards and input from fire professionals to build battery energy storage systems, and creates a path forward to an equitable transition away from fossil fuels, whose continued operations are emitting dangerous pollutants in disadvantaged communities on a daily basis.

That is why SB 283 is supported by organizations such as:
🏛 Counties of Monterey, San Luis Obispo, and Orange
🚒 CA Professional Firefighters
⚡️ State Association of Electrical Workers
🌳 Sierra Club CA
🏞 Rural County Representatives of CA
 

We sometimes assume that what happens in Washington, D.C. won’t directly impact us here on the Central Coast. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Recently, a Santa Cruz County resident, Cliona Ward, made international news after she was wrongfully detained at SFO upon returning from visiting an ill relative in Ireland — a heartbreaking situation caused by federal mismanagement. What happened to Ms. Ward is unconscionable. My office remains committed to raising awareness of injustices like this and will continue working with state agencies and federal partners to bring Ms. Ward home and to advocate for the fair treatment of all Californians.

It was an honor to meet with CALPIRG student leaders from across the UC system to discuss their initiative Protect Our Oceans, including some incredible advocates from UC Santa Cruz. Their passion and commitment to building a better future is what we need to combat federal cuts! 

California’s State Parks remain one of our greatest treasures. It was an honor to recognize Chief Ranger Dippel with a certificate of appreciation for his outstanding service and continued dedication to protecting and preserving these incredible public spaces. As the new Chief Ranger for the Monterey District, I look forward to working in partnership with him to protect our natural resources. 

Lopez Lake serves as a vital water source for communities across San Luis Obispo County. It was incredibly valuable to visit the lake and dam firsthand with SLO County officials to better understand its role in supporting the region.

The Soledad Youth Council is a wonderful opportunity for the next generation to get involved in government and help shape the future of their community. It’s inspiring to see young leaders stepping up to discuss the issues that matter most to them!

The federal government has made it clear that it is no friend to workers or unions. That’s why it’s more important than ever to uplift and stand alongside our local union leaders. I was honored to attend the 2025 Monterey Bay Central Labor Council Awards Dinner and celebrate the incredible work being done to protect and advance workers' rights across our region.

The California Legislative Central Coast Caucus Foundation (CLCCCF) is pleased to invite California Central Coast students from the following counties to apply for an educational scholarship of $3,000: Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura. At least one scholarship will be awarded to a student in each county. 

Applications are due MAY 31st. 

For more information on the application: CLICK HERE