Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As school resumes and the sun continues to shine on our beautiful Central Coast, both residents and wildlife are soaking up every moment. At San Carlos Beach in Monterey, our furry sea lion friends have taken over, creating a spectacular – though admittedly smelly – scene. While we enjoy the coast and its views, please remember that the beach remains closed, and federal law requires everyone to stay at least 150 feet away from the sea lions for their safety and ours.
Meanwhile, back in Sacramento, we’re in the final stretch of the two-year legislative session, with the finish line fast approaching – more details on that below.
As we head into the Labor Day weekend, let’s take a moment to reflect on its significance – a time to honor the contributions of workers and the labor movement. This holiday reminds us of the profound impact of leaders like Dolores Huerta and Glen Schaller, whose tireless advocacy led to fairer workplaces and stronger communities at the state and local level.
With summer winding down and fall fast approaching, I hope you find time to rest and recharge for the busy season ahead.
Warm Regards,
John Laird
Senator, 17th District
As we approach the last day of the legislative session, all bills must be passed by midnight August 31st, with the Governor having until September 30th to either sign or veto bills that reach his desk. From supporting our LGBTQ+ and veteran communities to putting more money in Californians’ pockets and advocating for a healthy democracy through fair and impartial voting districts, my team and I have worked tirelessly to craft legislation that upholds our California values.
As Chair of the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education, I have fought vigorously to preserve funding across all segments of the education system, including Community Colleges, California State Universities, and the University of California. I’m pleased to share that funding for the Middle Class Scholarship has been secured for the coming year, along with funding for housing projects at UC Santa Cruz and Cabrillo College.
I am pleased to announce that, in partnership with Speaker Robert Rivas and Assemblymember Gail Pellerin, we successfully secured $2 million for the City of Santa Cruz in this year’s budget. This crucial state funding will enable Santa Cruz to continue its effective work in addressing homelessness. It was imperative that the city's progress on this issue did not come to a standstill on July 1st. I am deeply grateful for the collaboration with Speaker Rivas and Assemblymember Pellerin in achieving what initially seemed impossible during this precarious budget year.
It was a real pleasure visiting Cal Poly SLO and its amazing student body. I couldn't resist snapping a photo in front of their impressive new sign!
Congratulations to my 2024 Woman of the Year Leslie Conner! It was an honor to host you and your loved ones in my office to celebrate your achievements.
What an absolute thrill to join Rep. Lofgren, Sen. Caballero, Speaker Rivas, and the entire community in celebrating San Benito County’s 150th Anniversary!
Can you say you were in San Luis Obispo if you didn’t stop at Bubblegum Alley? Had to make a quick pit stop with SLO Mayor Erica Stewart to see how the locals do it.
Here I am with Supervisor Glenn Church, Chair of the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, celebrating “A Day in the Country” at Aromas Day in Downtown Aromas
Good Times: Saving the Coast – Again
KSBY: El Camino Homeless Organization needs more volunteers, especially for meal teams
Benito Link: San Benito County holds a celebration for their 150th anniversary