Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Besides the 4th of July what a slow and uneventful month it’s been…right?
In all seriousness it's been an extraordinary couple of weeks and as we embark on this exciting journey, let us also unite in cheering for our exceptional Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, as they strive for gold.
A special acknowledgement goes out to our distinguished Olympians from the 17th District: Hayley Batten, Natalia Grossman, Nikki Hiltz, Dominique Parrish, and Matai Leuta. Their remarkable achievements bring immense pride to our country and the Central Coast.
Friendly competition with our northern neighbors is a familiar tradition, especially during the Olympics. Recently, during a Senate delegation trip to Canada, I couldn't resist the opportunity to sit in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's seat while visiting the House of Commons in Ottawa. The trip was not only memorable but also incredibly productive, as we collaborated on our shared goals to combat climate change — a pressing concern highlighted by the devastating Park Fire in Butte and Tehama Counties and the Jasper Fire in Alberta, Canada that are both still currently raging.
Please dive into the rest of this newsletter to learn more about what Team Laird has been up to. As always, contact my office if we can be of any assistance with state matters.
Warm Regards,
John Laird
Senator, 17th District
Happy to announce that Governor Newsom has signed two more of my bills into law while the Legislature has been in recess. SB 1097 enhances inclusivity in California’s Military and Veteran Code by updating language to represent our militia and veterans regardless of gender identity. Our militia and veterans consist of members of all genders, and it is important our laws reflect this to properly represent and honor these individuals for their service. SB 1190 provides a clear path for mobilehome owners that are on an individual meter, meet permitting requirements, and meet health and safety standards to install solar on their home. In doing so, the bill eliminates arbitrary restrictions, granting mobilehome owners the same rights to solar installation provided to other homeowners.
Congratulations to Leslie Connors for being honored as my 2024 Woman of the Year. As the CEO of Santa Cruz Community Health from 2011 to 2023, Leslie led the organization to new heights, significantly expanding its reach and impact on the community. Her tireless dedication to providing comprehensive services has made a lasting difference in the region. Click below to hear my full remarks on Leslie’s remarkable achievements.
Work along the Rocky Creek slip-out is moving forward and I thank Caltrans for their diligence in working to repair the roadway. For the week of Sunday, August 4, travelers will encounter full overnight closures of Highway 1 at Rocky Creek for five nights, from Sunday August 4 through Thursday August 8, from 10pm to 6am. Please remember that even with these closures, there will be access to and from Big Sur outside those hours.
What an honor to unveil the new signage for the Katcho Achadjian Memorial Highway in celebration and remembrance of former Assemblymember Katcho Achadjian. His legacy lives on through his work in the Legislature and his loving family and friends.
Congratulations to Lookout Santa Cruz for receiving the Pulitzer Prize for Breaking News Reporting in recognition of their exemplary coverage of the devastating January 2023 Floods. Local news is so important and Lookout Santa Cruz is leading the way!
Water on the Monterey Peninsula is a topic fraught with a multitude of opinions. Grateful to have led a discussion on what can be done to assure this precious commodity continues to be available to residents. 
Five Branches University in Santa Cruz has provided its students with a robust education in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Proud to present them with a joint resolution from myself and Asm. Pellerin for their achievements.
Wonder Wood Ranch in Prunedale is a one of a kind facility that is helping Monterey County impacted youth through equine therapy. Thank you to Founder Marlo Schalesky for opening your home to so many across the region.
What a wonderful visit to Twin Cities Community Hospital in Templeton which will now be known as Adventist Health Twin Cities! I look forward to seeing quality healthcare services provided to residents in San Luis Obispo County.