Asm. Steve Bennett

Existing law establishes various grant programs. Existing law, the Grant Information Act of 2018, requires the California State Library to create an internet web portal to provide a centralized location for grant seekers to find state grant opportunities and requires the California State Library to report to the Legislature on the effectiveness of the portal, including, among other things, the utilization rate by state agencies. This bill would impose minimum requirements for the administration of covered grants that meet maximum size and duration requirements and are available to nonprofit organizations, as defined. The bill would require administrators, as defined, to perform specified duties, including, among others, posting eligibility, application, and other information for covered grants on their internet website and the above-described grant portal created by the California State Library. The bill would impose minimum requirements on the distribution of grant funds, and would impose limitations on specified reporting requirements for covered grant recipients. The bill would prohibit an administrator from requiring a grant recipient to carry insurance coverage limits in excess of the risk associated with the covered grant activity.

(1) Existing law requires the adopted course of study for grades 7 to 12, inclusive, to offer courses in specified areas of study, including, among others, science and mathematics. This bill would require the governing board of each school district, and the governing body of each charter school, maintaining any of grades 9 to 12, inclusive, by January 1, 2026, to (A) adopt a plan at a regularly scheduled public meeting to offer at least one course in computer science in each of its high schools in accordance with a specified timeline, (B) post the plan to its internet website, and (C) review, on or before May 31, 2026, and annually thereafter, the plan at a regularly scheduled public meeting and report to the public on the plan's implementation, as provided. The bill would require school districts and charter schools to describe in the adopted plan their planned efforts to increase the computer science course enrollment of female pupils, pupils with disabilities, pupils who belong to ethnic and racial groups, and pupils eligible for free or reduced-priced meals that are underrepresented in the field of computer science. By imposing additional duties on school districts and charter schools, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The bill would require the State Department of Education, on or before June 30, 2027, and annually thereafter, to publicly post specified computer science course-related data on its internet website, as specified. (2) Existing law creates the California Computer Science Coordinator, as a position within the department, to provide statewide coordination in, among other things, implementing the computer science content standards and leading the implementation of the Computer Science Strategic Implementation Plan, as provided. This bill would require the department, by July 1, 2025, and under the direction of the California Computer Science Coordinator, to develop a computer science implementation guide that would include specified information regarding computer science standards-aligned courses, as provided, and would encourage school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools to review the computer science implementation guide developed by the department. (3) The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.

Maddy summaryThis California Assembly resolution encourages the U.S. Congress to pass legislation creating a National Infrastructure Bank to fund critical repairs and upgrades for roads, bridges, dams, and other public works. The bill cites reports from the American Society of Civil Engineers highlighting billions of dollars in investment gaps and poor conditions affecting California's transportation and water systems. It advocates for a financing model that uses existing federal debt rather than new taxes, aiming to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and prioritize projects in disadvantaged communities. The resolution formally requests that federal leaders adopt this approach to address the state's urgent infrastructure needs.

Maddy summaryThis California House Resolution condemns the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt on former President Donald J. Trump and calls for an end to political violence. The measure highlights the event where Trump was wounded while speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, and notes that one attendee died and others were injured while trying to protect him. It urges the state to foster a political environment based on respectful discourse and nonviolence. The resolution is a formal statement of the Assembly's stance and does not create new laws or change existing policies.

This measure would recognize the importance of California Native American Day, celebrated this year on September 27, 2024, and the annual California Indian Cultural Awareness Conference, to the enhancement of awareness of California Indian culture.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates November 22, 2024, as Kimchee Day in California to honor the traditional Korean dish and its cultural significance. It acknowledges the long history of kimchee, the contributions of Korean Americans, and the dish's recognized health benefits and growing popularity in the United States. The resolution directs the Assembly's Chief Clerk to send copies of the document to the author for distribution.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes Transgender History Month in California to recognize the state's significant contributions to transgender history and activism. The resolution highlights key historical figures and events, such as early Indigenous gender variance, the Cooper Do-nuts and Compton's Cafeteria riots, and the founding of major support organizations. By formally acknowledging these milestones, the measure aims to educate the public about the long-standing presence and struggles of transgender people in California.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a House Resolution that formally recognizes Diwali as a significant cultural and religious holiday for Indian Americans and South Asian Americans in California. It acknowledges the festival's importance to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains by highlighting its historical roots and the specific meanings it holds for each group. The resolution expresses the Assembly's respect for these communities and encourages Californians to participate in the celebration of lights on November 1, 2024. As a commemorative measure, the bill does not alter laws or funding but serves to officially honor the occasion within the state legislature.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the week of June 3, 2024, as Sacramento Valley Ecosystem Awareness Week to highlight the region's unique natural and agricultural resources. The measure acknowledges the area's importance for migratory birds, endangered fish species, and rice farming while promoting efforts to restore local ecosystems. It expresses legislative support for the Floodplain Forward Coalition, a group working to improve water management and environmental health in the valley. The resolution serves as a formal recognition of these ecological values rather than creating new laws or funding.

Maddy summaryThis resolution officially designates Wednesday, June 12, 2024, as Loving Day in the state of California. It commemorates the 1967 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that legalized interracial marriage nationwide and honors the legacy of Mildred and Richard Loving. The measure serves as a symbolic observance to celebrate multicultural communities and the historical significance of the court decision.