Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As the holidays quickly approach, I want to take a moment to thank you for placing your trust in me to represent your values and interests in our Capitol. This past election, you re-elected me to my final term in the California State Senate—a responsibility I am deeply honored to carry. It was a privilege to be sworn in for the last time on the Senate Floor’s iconic “Red Carpet” with my brother and his partner proudly watching.
During my first term, I worked tirelessly as Chair of the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education to balance the state’s budget while protecting critical funding for our schools. I also led vital discussions on advancing California’s climate goals, ensuring we continue to build a sustainable future for the next generation. While many challenges lie ahead in the years to come, I am eager to work alongside both new and returning colleagues to address the needs of all Californians.
Below, you’ll find updates on what the New Year will bring in Sacramento and the work I’ve been doing back home on the Central Coast. As we prepare for the busy months ahead, I encourage you to take this holiday season to cherish time with loved ones, as I did with John and our new great nephew Kieran, and savor the moments that make life truly special.
Wishing you a joyful rest of 2024 and looking forward to 2025!
Warm Regards,
JOHN LAIRD
Senator, 17th District
The Legislature reconvenes on January 6th, and this session will bring a wave of fresh perspectives. In the State Senate alone, 12 of the 40 seats will be filled by new members. Including the State Assembly, over 25% of the Legislature will consist of new representatives—largely due to the term limits that first impacted the class of 2012. With this turnover comes an exciting opportunity to learn about these new legislators’ priorities and explore areas of collaboration. Regardless of party affiliation, my focus remains steadfast: protecting and advocating for the values of the Central Coast. I am committed to working alongside Governor Newsom, Senate President Pro Tem McGuire, and Speaker Rivas to shape a future where every Californian can thrive.
While awaiting my committee assignments from the Senate President Pro Tem, I am proud to share a few updates. During my first term in the State Senate, I had 59 bills signed into law relating to environmental protection, sea level rise, battery storage safety, educational opportunity, sustainable agriculture, and electoral reform among others. This month, I reintroduced SB 22, legislation aimed at increasing the cash redemption amount for gift cards to $24.99, with annual adjustments for inflation and notices at cash registers to inform consumers of this right. This overdue measure will help put more money back into the pockets of Californians when they need it most.
Additionally, I have requested the creation of a Select Committee on Older LGBTQ+ Needs to address the unique challenges and concerns facing this vital community. By identifying and addressing these needs, we can work toward a more inclusive and supportive future for all.
With redistricting officially in effect, the 17th Senate District has undergone significant changes. While I bid farewell to representing 300,000 constituents, I am equally honored to welcome another 300,000 into the district. It has been an incredible privilege to serve Santa Clara County over the past four years. Cities like San Jose and Gilroy embody the diversity and innovation that define California. I would especially like to reflect on my time representing Morgan Hill—over a decade in both the State Assembly and State Senate. You can read my full letter to the Morgan Hill Times here.
The newly configured 17th Senate District now includes all of Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey Counties, as well as 82% of San Luis Obispo County. I am eager to deepen my understanding of the Salinas Valley and San Benito County, as well as continue advocating for the diverse needs of our entire region. As you’ll see below, I’ve wasted no time getting to work in these areas.
While the district boundaries may have changed, the persistent challenge of prolonged outages caused by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) remains a pressing issue. Whether it’s in the Santa Cruz Mountains, the Monterey Peninsula, or San Luis Obispo County, these disruptions continue to impact the daily lives of constituents. I regularly hear from residents about what can be done to improve reliability and prevent these outages in the future. My staff and I are committed to holding PG&E accountable by working with my colleagues in the Legislature and the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to ensure investor owned utilities deliver dependable service without unjustified rate hikes. Reliable power should not have to be considered a luxury.
I am incredibly grateful for the tireless efforts of my Capitol and District teams, who make my work possible every day. Spanning four offices—Sacramento, Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo—they bring their exceptional talents to serve the 17th District with dedication and professionalism. This past fall, it was a joy to host them in my home and celebrate their hard work and commitment.
Congratulations to Gavilan College President Dr. Avila for the opening of their new Hollister Campus! San Benito County residents will now have access to quality higher education right in their own community.
The Salinas Regional Soccer Complex is envisioned to become the largest sports and recreation facility between SF and LA. I was honored to join their kick-off celebration to recognize the completion of Phase 2A at the complex!
It was a pleasure stopping by Pismo Beach (and their giant sign) to meet with representatives from Camp Fire Central Coast. We had a great discussion about the impactful programs they offer for youth and their families, fostering growth, connection, and community engagement.
Big news for Santa Cruz! The Homeless Garden Project has been awarded $150,000 through the CA Rise program! This funding, in collaboration with CalOSBA and REDF, fuels employment social enterprises—opening doors for overlooked talent and driving economic mobility.
Thank you to Superintendent/Principal Stonebloom for the tour of Lagunita Elementary! This historic ‘Little Red Schoolhouse’ provides personalized education to our youth. I am excited to support its success in the years ahead!
I had an insightful meeting with CSU Monterey Bay President Vanya Quiñones to discuss the university’s outstanding leadership in advancing social mobility across the Western United States. I also presented certificates of recognition to their impactful affinity centers: El Centro, the Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence, and the Rainbow Raft Pride Center, all of which play a vital role in fostering inclusivity and support for students.
It was my absolute honor and privilege to join Brian Green one last time on his podcast, Then There’s California, before his well-earned retirement early next year. Having worked with Brian for decades, I can confidently say his knowledge and dedication to informing and inspiring Californians are unmatched. Congratulations, Brian, on an incredible career and a much-deserved retirement—you have left an indelible legacy across the state.
To hear the full episode click here or below:
https://thentherescalifornia.libsyn.com/senator-john-laird-perspectives-on-the-new-legislative-session-from-the-dean-of-the-california-legislature