Mayday, Mayday! Bus Trip, Bills, and Blossoms ✿

Dear Friends and Neighbors, 

I hope that you will join me this month on Tuesday, May 20th for my 22nd Annual Sacramento Bus Trip for Education, a free opportunity to hop on a bus from San Jose to the Sacramento Capitol, speak to over a dozen California state legislators, enjoy lunch, and advocate for education! 

Now more than ever before, as national politics continue to affect public education and state funding, we need community members like you to make your voices heard! We also want to answer your questions about state legislative priorities, the legislative process, and more. Sign up HERE or go to https://tinyurl.com/2025SacBusTrip. 

This legislative session, I’ve authored over 25 bills aiming to advance Housing & Affordability, Public Safety, Wildfire Resilience, Education, Agriculture, Transportation, Animal Welfare, and so much more! Check out my complete 2025-2026 legislative package here, and let me know your thoughts! 

As we continue to face unpredictable challenges, let’s keep showing up for one another with strength and care. With spring in full swing and holidays like Mother’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, and Memorial Day around the corner, here’s to growing together and finding hope in community.

With Hope, 

Dave Cortese, Senator

California Senate District 15

 

Here In District 15

 

Unveiling My Education Equalization Bill

At San Jose’s Mount Pleasant Elementary School, surrounded by education and community leaders, I unveiled Senate Bill 743 to fix an antiquated 1978 funding formula that has created winners and losers in the public education system for the last 45 years.

Right now, some school districts receive nearly double the per-pupil funding of others just miles away. These disparities translate into gaps in graduation rates, college readiness, and long-term opportunity.

My bill, SB 743, creates a permanent new funding stream to close that gap, without touching existing school budgets.

 

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Happy Cambodian New Year!

The Cambodian New Year is a three-day national holiday and is also referred to as, Chol Chnam Thmey or Khmer New Year. 

One of my Office’s District Representatives, Phuong Nguyen, stopped by the Khemararam Buddhist Temple and delivered a Certificate of Recognition on my behalf to the United Khmer Krom organization, which held a celebration to commemorate the holiday. The new year celebration marks the country’s harvest season ending and the beginning of its rainy season.

 

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Commemorating Black Maternal Health Week

My office commemorated Black Maternal Health Week with San Jose State University and San Jose Public Library at their “Power of Unconditional Love in Practice” series events. Black women are 2-3 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. The weeklong observance, therefore, aims to raise awareness to drive advocacy in order to address Black maternal health disparities. 

That is why San Jose State University, in partnership with San Jose Public Library, held a “Community Baby Shower” and “Reproductive Justice Celebration,” which one of my District Representatives, Meghan Bedi, attended on my behalf. 

 

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Celebrating A 68-Year-Old Sisterhood

As co-chair of the Japan California Legislative Forum, I had the great honor of greeting a delegation from Japan at San Jose City Hall.

The San Jose City Council also presented a commendation to the City of Okayama, Japan, in recognition of its 68-year Sister City relationship with San Jose and the ongoing exchanges between the two cities.

 

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Rallying For #SaveMedicaid

A #SaveMedicaid rally, hosted by PRxDigital, took place on the County of Santa Clara Plaza, protesting the $880-billion dollar cut in funding proposed by the Trump Administration!

In California, the Medicaid program is known as Medi-Cal, but the money comes from Washington, D.C. Nearly one-third of Californians rely on Medi-Cal for their healthcare coverage. In Santa Clara County, one in four residents get their healthcare through Medi-Cal funding. The cuts would put lives at risk, lengthen wait times for patients, and further strain Santa Clara County’s four public hospitals.

 

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A Grand Opening At Evergreen Valley College

Evergreen Valley College added new on-site campus facilities this past month! The grand opening unveiled new buildings aimed at improving student services and academic programs for engineering and nursing. 

 

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A Rally For Public Education At SJSU

With the national assault on institutions of higher education, we joined the California Faculty Association at a rally on the San Jose State University campus, defending public education, a stronger workforce, and immigrant students. Similar rallies are happening on college campuses throughout the nation.

 

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Reopening Regional Medical Center

Congratulations to the County of Santa Clara for officially taking over operations of San Jose’s Regional Medical Center this past month to become our County’s fourth hospital! 

This is a major win for public health and safety in one of our region’s most underserved areas, securing trauma, stroke, heart attack, and maternity care for our residents. It’s the latest chapter in the County’s long-term effort to protect essential healthcare access—especially after previous hospital closures nearly overwhelmed our system.

The County’s tenacity made the difference and will continue to change lives.

 

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Celebrating Earth Day With Gilroy Councilmember Hilton

This year’s Earth Day theme was “Our Power, Our Planet,” calling upon each of us to unite behind renewable energy and to triple the global generation of clean electricity by 2030. 

Thank you to Gilroy Councilman Zach Hilton for having us stop by and share a tabling booth with him at the Earth Day Resource Fair held at the city’s San Ysidro Park.

 

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In Our State Capitol

 

"Leno's Law" Passes Senate Transportation Committee

Former “Tonight Show” host & classic car enthusiast Jay Leno spent a day at the Capitol this month! Leno testified at my Committee, the Senate Transportation Committee, in favor of Senate Bill 712, known as “Leno’s Law,” which would create a reasonable exemption for collector cars whose model is 35 years or older from California’s smog check requirements. This bill recognizes the cultural and historical value of classic cars, while maintaining our state’s strong environmental protections.

The bill passed the Senate Transportation Committee on a bipartisan vote.

 

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Taking A Stand Against Hidden Taxes & Fees

I showed my support to stop the hidden tax on groceries and gas with Assemblymember Liz Ortega, the author of Assembly Bill 1065. 

AB 1065 aims to prohibit credit card companies from charging interchange fees on state and local taxes & gratuities, in order to reduce costs for businesses and consumers.

 

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Workers Bill of Rights For Classified Employees

On the floor of the Senate, I presented my Senate Joint Resolution 2 on the Workers Bill of Rights for Classified Employees. Watch my presentation here!

 

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Celebrating Dolores Huerta Day

This month, my Senate colleagues and I had the privilege of declaring Dolores Huerta’s birthdate as Dolores Huerta Day across California.

Though she is more well-renowned for her tireless advocacy work with the United Farm Workers movement, she should also be known for her global imprint on the nonviolence movement. Her dialogue with former South African legislator, Ela Ghandi, who co-drafted South Africa's Constitution with Nelson Mandela post-apartheid is truly inspiring. 

As a former farmer and farmworker, and nonviolence practitioner, I look forward to working side by side her in our collective fight to champion, defend, and work to protect the lives and rights of farmworkers across the state. 

 

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Lunching With Capitol Senate Fellows

One of my favorite things to do as an elected official is engaging with young people interested in a public service career. I always walk away feeling hopeful and inspired by their commitment to improving our society and the lives of others. 

That is how I felt after a brown bag luncheon this month with the Capitol Senate Fellows, which included my office’s own Fellow, Akali Warmsley! Fellows like Akali play an important role in Senate offices like mine helping to move forward legislation on a host of issues. I look forward to hearing more about their future successes! 

 

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Honoring Caltrans Fallen Workers

The 35th annual #Caltrans Fallen Workers Memorial was held on River Walk Park in West Sacramento. We honored our 194 Caltrans workers who have died in the line of duty. The state’s Capitol was lit orange ahead of the memorial.

 

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State Legislative Issues Day with Speaker Rivas

Congratulations to Speaker Robert Rivas for hosting a successful State Legislative Issues Day at the Capitol! 

As part of the event, Senator John Laird and I had the opportunity to further connect with residents who currently reside within my Senate District 15, whom he once represented up until last year before redistricting. We discussed emerging legislative and budget priority issues coming before the legislature and how California is affected by federal actions. 

 

 

My Bills, In the News

 

SENATE BILL 743: THE EDUCATION EQUALIZATION ACT

SB 743 addresses long-standing funding disparities between California’s public schools by creating the Education Equalization Account. This new fund would provide additional support to school districts that receive less local property tax revenue and not take away any funding from other districts, helping equalize per-pupil funding across the state. Check out these articles to learn more:

 

• NBC Bay Area: Proposed California bill aims to bridge gap in school funding The Mercury News: California bill aims to make school funding more equitable 
• Vanguard News Group: San Jose Education Leaders Unite Behind Cortese’s Plan to Fix Inequities in School Funding
• San Jose Spotlight: Silicon Valley lawmaker wants to reduce school funding inequity
• CalMatters: Wide school disparities persist 54 years after California’s landmark funding decision

 

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SENATE BILL 712: LENO’S LAW

Co-authored with Senator Shannon Grove, SB 712, named after classic car enthusiast and TV Show personality “Jay Leno”, would eliminate the need for smog check tests for certain classic cars. Check out these articles to learn more:

• FOX 40” ‘Leno’s Law’: Talk show host headed to Sacramento in support of smog check exemption bill 
• The Sacramento Bee: Jay Leno, Sen. Shannon Grove cruise CA Capitol for classic car smog exemption 
• California Globe: Jay Leno Makes Pit Stop at the Capitol to Speak on ‘Leno’s Law’ to Protect Classic Cars
• KCBS Radio: Jay Leno touts “Leno’s Law” to exempt more older cars from California smog check

 

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SENATE BILL 753: ABANDONED SHOPPING CART RECOVERY

SB 753 modernizes state law to allow cities and counties to immediately recover and return abandoned shopping carts. Check out these articles to learn more:

• Newsbreak: New shopping cart law will banish frustrating grocery store habit for good with fines for failing to follow rules
• Sierra Sun Times: California State Senator Dave Cortese Says Abandoned Shopping Carts Endless Days in Creekbeds, Sidewalks & Neighborhoods May Soon Be Over
• KRON 4: Bay Area lawmaker introduces bill targeting abandoned shopping carts
• CBS News: Proposal seeks to improve cleanup of abandoned shopping carts in California

 

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SENATE BILL 33: CALSOAR GUARANTEED INCOME PROGRAM

SB 33 establishes the California SOAR (Success, Opportunity, and Academic Resilience) Guaranteed Income Program, providing $1,000 in direct cash assistance to twelfth-grade students experiencing homelessness. Check out these articles to learn more:

• Axios San Francisco: California to consider guaranteed income pilot for homeless youth
• Vanguard News Group: California Bill to Provide Guaranteed Income for Homeless High School Seniors Advances with Bipartisan Support

 

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SENATE BILL 700: FIREFIGHTER CANCER PREVENTION & RESEARCH EXPANSION

SB 700 aims to expand research and prevention efforts under the California Firefighter Cancer Prevention and Research Program, ensuring firefighters receive the latest science-backed protections. Check out this article to learn more:

• San Jose firefighters take part in cancer research after initial denial - San José Spotlight

 

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SENATE BILL 462: KEEPING WORKING FARMS WORKING

SB 462 secures a $20 million annual investment in the California Farmland Conservancy Program (CFCP) to protect agricultural land through conservation easements. Check out this article to learn more:

• The Mercury News: California Senate Bill takes aim at saving farm lands

 

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SENATE BILL 750: UNLOCKING AFFORDABLE HOUSING INVESTMENT

SB 750 establishes the California Housing Finance and Credit Act (CAHFCA), a state-backed credit enhancement program administered by the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA). Check out this article to learn more:

• Vanguard News Group: Senator Cortese’s SB 750 Would Unlock Stalled Affordable Housing Projects through State Credit Program

 

Check out my full 2025 legislative package HERE!

 

Free Community Events

 

My Annual Sacramento Bus Trip For Education

Join me on Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 for an all-day visit to our State's Capitol in Sacramento as part of my 22nd Annual Bus Trip for Education! The Bus Trip aims to inform those attending the event about the legislature’s budget and legislative process with a focus on public education bill proposals and funding priorities. 

• WHEN: Tuesday, May 20th, 2025 (Departure to Sacramento from San Jose: 6:00 AM; Event Time in Sacramento: 9AM-3PM; Return from Sacramento to San Jose: 3PM-5:30PM)
• WHERE: California State Capitol - 1315 10th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 (San Jose bus pick up location details will be sent separately)

Sign up HERE or go to https://tinyurl.com/2025SacBusTrip. For more information about the event itself, see here. Be sure to register before May 9th.

 

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May 1st Is International Worker's Day

Otherwise known as May Day, May 1st commemorates International Workers Day. This year, we invite you to join the workers of San Jose for cultural performances and the annual march. The event begins with a Rally at King & Story, scheduled to begin at 2:30PM. The march will begin at 4:00PM and end at San Jose City Hall. For more information, check out maydaysanjose.org! 

 

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Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month In The South Bay

1. The South Bay AANHPI Heritage Festival, hosted at History Park on May 17th from 11:00AM to 4:00PM, is a celebration of the diverse and vibrant cultures that make up the AANHPI Community! Check out a host of free Asian & Pacific Islander-centric games, community booths, a panel discussion, open exhibits, and more! For more information, see here.
2. The 2025 AAPI Multicultural Event, hosted at Cupertino Library Plaza from 12:00PM-4:00PM, is a free opportunity to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month with an afternoon filled with vibrant culture, delicious food, and inspiring art! For more information, see here.
   
    

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Celebrate Cinco De Mayo In San Jose

1. Join the 2nd Annual San Jose Cinco de Mayo Celebration on Sunday, May 4th for a full day of culture, music, and community fun. The festivities kick off with a colorful parade from 9–11 AM along King Road, starting at Alum Rock and ending at Story Road. After the parade, the celebration continues with a lively festival from 11 AM–4 PM at Emma Prusch Farm Park. For more information, see here.
2. Join the Second Annual Downtown Cinco De Mayo Festival in Downtown San Jose at Cesar Chavez Plaza all day from 11:00AM-8:00PM. Bring friends and family, and be sure to check out the music, vendors, dancers, and more! For more information, see here. 
   
    

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Growing Together: Free Family Health Fair

Join SJSU at Payne Avenue Friendship Park on Saturday, May 3rd from 10:00AM – 1:00PM for a Free Family Health Fair! The fair will include community resources, health screenings, connections to vital health services, music, food, games, and more! For more information, see here.  

 

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Wildfire Preparedness Workshop

Join the Santa Clara County Fire Department for their Wildfire Preparedness Workshop, at Joan Pisani Community Center on May 3rd from 10:00AM – 12:00PM. Learn how to reduce wildfire risk and better prepare your home, your family, and your neighborhood. This workshop will include a Wildfire Readiness Presentation and then an opportunity to visit many Resource Tables staffed by local agencies to assist you in preparing and answering your wildfire preparedness questions. For more information, see here. 

 

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Third Friday Art Walk In Downtown Gilroy

Join 6th Street Studios & Art Center the 3rd Friday of every month from 5 to 8 PM to discover new artists, explore Downtown Gilroy, and see performers and more on the streets of Gilroy’s charming downtown. Be sure to join this month on Friday, May 16th. For more information and to reserve a spot, see here. 

 

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Child Care Resource Fair

Discover the best childcare options for your little one at Roots Community Health: Little Learners, Bright Futures: A Child Care Resource Fair! Connect with trusted providers, explore affordable daycare services, and enjoy interactive activities designed to spark your child’s curiosity—all in one fun-filled gathering. Don’t miss this opportunity on May 17th from 1:00PM – 3:30PM to find the perfect support system for your family! RSVP here.

 

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Book Cover Design Contest

Calling All East San José High School Artists! Are you ready to have your artwork featured on the cover of a published book? This is your chance to design the official cover for the 2nd edition of Barrio Side Hero by local author Enrique S. Flores—a powerful story rooted in community. The deadline to submit is May 23rd! For more information and to submit your cover design, see here.

 

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Wild & Scenic Film Festival

This free event hosted by the Peninsula Open Space Trust celebrates community, nature, and action! Explore 20+ community booths, connect with local organizations, and learn about environmental initiatives in your area. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a rare chance to get up close with birds of prey! Head over to Smithwick Theater at Foothill College on May 17th from 5:30PM – 9:00PM. For more information and to reserve a space, see here. 

 

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National River Cleanup Day In San Jose

National River Cleanup Day is a nationwide effort to protect our rivers, watersheds, and wildlife from trash and debris. Since its inception by American Rivers in 1991, more than 1.3 million volunteers have participated in thousands of cleanups across the country, covering more than 261,000 miles of waterways and removing more than 32.5 million pounds of litter and debris. Join the Creek Connections Action Group at Coyote Creek (3408 Tuers Rd, San Jose) from 9:00AM – 12:00PM on May 17th. For more information and to register, see here. 

 

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Submit Student Art For Display!

The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara is excited to announce a countywide call for original artwork from elementary school students in grades K–5. This initiative, led by Judge Elizabeth C. Peterson, seeks to highlight the creativity and joy of young students by showcasing their artwork in the Court’s newly revitalized Jury Assembly Rooms.

Students are encouraged to submit pieces that reflect the theme: “What brings you happiness and joy.” Selected works will be featured in public jury assembly spaces and on the Court’s official website beginning July 7, 2025.

Submission Guidelines:

• Artwork must be original and submitted as 8 x 11 hard copies. Electronic submissions will not be accepted. 
• Submissions should be mailed to: Hon. Elizabeth C. Peterson, Hall of Justice, 190 W. Hedding Street, San Jose, CA 95113.
• Deadline to submit: May 23, 2025

For more information, please contact Jessica Kellogg at (408) 334-9236 or visit https://santaclara.courts.ca.gov/general-information/court-community. 

 

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Open Streets Event In Morgan Hill

Join Healthy Morgan Hill for their Community Kickoff Celebration and Downtown Morgan Hill Open Streets Event on Saturday, May 10th from 9:00AM to 1:00PM at the Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center. Check out community booths, health information, fitness classes, music, and more! For more information, see here.

 

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(At The Capitol) Vigil For Missing And Murdered Indigenous People's Day

May 5th is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. The California State Capitol will have its Annual MMIP Candlelight Vigil on Wednesday, May 7th from 6:00PM – 9:00PM, hosted by the California Legislative Native American Caucus. For more information about the event, see here. For more information about this cause and to learn how best to support it, see here.  

CHECK OUT OTHER FREE EVENTS IN DISTRICT 15: 

• Free San Jose, CA Events | Eventbrite
• Free Gilroy, CA Events | Eventbrite
• Free Morgan Hill, CA Events | Eventbrite