Hearts & Home ❤️: A Commitment to Care and Community

Dear Friends and Neighbors, 

February marks a pivotal moment in the legislative year as the California State Legislature advances into active session. Committees are meeting, policy proposals are taking shape, and my work as your legislator continues through public dialogue and collaboration. This month also invites reflection and celebration across our communities, as we observe Lunar New Year, Valentine’s Day, the start of Ramadan, and Presidents’ Day -- each reminding us of the rich cultural traditions, mutual care, and democratic principles that strengthen our state.

As we move legislation forward, our office remains committed to advancing policies that reflect the voices and lived experiences of the people we serve. Listening to constituents and engaging with community leaders across all backgrounds remains central to this process. In fact, I recently introduced my new bill, SB 870, after meaningful dialogue with my constituents. This bill will help protect Californians of all ages from dangerous tabletop firepits that do not adhere to fire-safety regulations. As this legislation and numerous others move through their respective committees, I remain committed to serving your needs and upholding your safety. To stay up to date on my complete legislative package, see here.

February also provides meaningful opportunities to engage directly with residents throughout the district. Community forums, cultural celebrations, school visits, and meetings with local organizations allow us to connect constituents with vital resources and simultaneously inform our work in Sacramento. That’s why I’m partnering this month with the California Student Aid Commission South County California Student Opportunity and Access Program (Cal-SOAP) to co-host a virtual College Financial Aid Workshop on February 26th. For students who are interested in receiving assistance with your College Financial Aid Application, be sure to register for our event here: https://forms.gle/q13xFWNCd37T3F9N7.

Finally, my office will be hosting its Annual Unhoused Health Fair on February 27th from 9AM – 1PM at Valley Health Center – Downtown Urgent Care Clinic in the parking lot located at 777 E. Santa Clara Street in San Jose. If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness, I encourage you to attend and/or spread the word! Likewise, if you, your organization, or someone you know is available to provide a service at this event, please reach out to my District Office at (408)723-4154 or email Zachary.Contini@sen.ca.gov. As we look towards the event, I also encourage you to donate coats to our District Office Coat Drive for those in need. In partnership with Opening Doors, be sure to stop by our office (1155 Meridian Ave Suite 100, San Jose) during business hours, drop off a coat, and receive a receipt for your donation. 

To stay updated with our work, look out for district initiatives on my website and check out the community events below! As always, if you need any help navigating state services, accessing emergency resources, or participating in local events this month, please don’t hesitate to call my District Office at (408) 723-4154 or send an email to Senator.Cortese@sen.ca.gov. 

In Community,

HERE IN DISTRICT 15

PLANTING FOR A CLEANER TOMORROW

Senator Cortese with dignitaries, including CEO Rhonda Berry, at the Our City Forest MLK Day of Service

On this past month’s MLK Jr. Day of Service, I was proud to join Our City Forest at Rainbow Park in San José, planting dozens of trees alongside community volunteers. Environmental justice is civil rights work—every neighborhood deserves clean air, shade, and healthy public spaces. Honoring Dr. King means showing up, serving together, and building a greener, more equitable future for all.

 

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HONORING DR. KING’S LEGACY

Senator Cortese presenting a certificate of recognition to African American Community Service Agency leadership, including Executive Director Milan Balinton

I was honored to have joined the African American Community Service Agency at its 46th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon. 

Dr. King’s legacy calls on us to serve, to build a beloved community, and to stand together for justice and dignity for all. I was grateful to celebrate a day rooted in reflection, unity, and action alongside community leaders who continue this vital work. 

 

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STRENGTHENING THE ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Senator Cortese receiving the Industry Partner of the Year Award at the NECA Installation of Officers Gala

Over the past year, I had the opportunity to work alongside the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) – San Diego Chapter to move my Senate Bill 61 (SB 61) forward, which secured the Governor’s signature thereby ensuring fair pay for contractors.

NECA San Diego recognized me with their 2025 Electrical Construction Industry Partner of the Year Award for championing the proposal at its Installation of Officers Gala. This recognition reflects the hard work of so many industry leaders, committed to strengthening our state’s electrical construction industry.

Thank you to NECA San Diego and everyone in the electrical construction community for your leadership, partnership, and vision. Together, we’re building a stronger infrastructure, better jobs, and a brighter future for all Californians.

 

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CELEBRATING STUDENT ARTWORK

Students photographed at the Sixth District California annual Reflection Gala

Congratulations to the incredible students recognized by the Sixth District California PTA at its annual Reflection Gala for their outstanding visual and performing arts pieces!

Students from Elementary, Middle and High School were recognized for their music, dance, and film pieces capturing what belonging means to them. Each piece tells a story of identity, community, and connection, reminding us how the arts bring people together and help every student feel seen and valued. I’m proud to celebrate their hard work and imagination, and grateful to the educators, families, and PTA leaders who continue to uplift arts education.

 

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ENGAGING WITH PIVOTAL FOSTER YOUTH

Senator Cortese presenting a Civics lesson to Pivotal’s foster youth scholars

I had a great time reconnecting with Pivotal and its foster youth scholars by providing them with a “Civic Engagement 101” lesson and participating in their panel. I joined this event alongside my wife and East Side Union High School District Board Trustee Pattie Cortese, my Senate colleague Senator Aisha Wahab, Santa Clara County Supervisor Betty Duong, and San Jose Councilmember Pamela Campos.

An estimated 1,000 foster youth reside within our county. Providing them with wraparound social services including behavioral health care, job opportunities, training, mentorship, and financial assistance is critical to their success as they face additional barriers in life. I remain committed to supporting them and am proud to have partnered with the county to fund and establish a guaranteed basic income program benefiting them.
 

 

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SUPPORTING TECH FOR GLOBAL GOOD

Senator Cortese photographed with Apple co-founder, Steve Wozniak

The Tech Interactive held its annual Tech for Global Good celebration honoring individuals whose technological contributions have had a positive impact on our society, environment and economy. Assemblyman Ash Kalra and I were honored to recognize the awardees, which included Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak who was presented with the Global Humanitarian Award. 

 

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UPHOLDING PUBLIC SAFETY 

Thank you to Caltrans Bay Area-District 4 continuing to address lighting issues along I-680 in San José. Well-maintained lights are critical to keeping drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists safe, especially along busy corridors like this one. Public safety depends on infrastructure that works—this is an important step in the right direction.
 

 

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COMMEMORATING A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

Senator Cortese presenting a Senate Resolution to Rinban Gerald Sakamoto alongside members of the SJ Buddhist Church

It was an honor to present a California Senate Resolution commemorating the retirement of Rinban Gerald Sakamoto from the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin in the city's Japantown. The Senate Resolution recognizes his lifetime of service, leadership, and compassion. 

His dedication to faith, community, and bringing people together has left a lasting impact across generations. Wishing Rinban Sakamoto continued purpose and peace in this next chapter.

 

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STRENGTHENING FAMILIES AND FIGHTING FOOD INSECURITY 

Senator Cortese photographed with Milan Balinton and other leaders of the AACSA

This past month, I met up with Milan Balinton, Executive Director for the African American Community Service Agency (AACSA), and had the opportunity to tour their facility which serves as a Family Resource Center and a food distribution site for those facing food insecurity. AACSA provides critical support, advocacy, and services that strengthen families and uplift our community. I’m grateful for their leadership and continued commitment to equity, opportunity, and empowerment for our families.

 

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DISCUSSING THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION

Senator Cortese alongside Senator Josh Becker, Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, and SVLG Leadership

I was glad to join the Silicon Valley Leadership Group 's Annual Legislative Panel alongside Senator Josh Becker and Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens for a thoughtful discussion on our region’s priorities. I emphasized the need to address homelessness through a truly collaborative and coordinated effort across all levels of government and sectors. We also discussed my SB 1298 and the importance of ensuring the sustainable and responsible growth of data centers as Silicon Valley continues to lead in innovation. It was also good to catch up with my former Legislative Aide, Ashonte Smith, who is now SVLG's State Director of Policy.

 

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IN OUR STATE CAPITOL

 

PARTNERING FOR PUBLIC EDUCATION

Senator Cortese addressing the Association of California School Administrators on the Senate floor

I was glad to welcome the Association of California School Administrators to the State Capitol. Our school leaders play a critical role in shaping safe, supportive, and high-quality learning environments for students across California. Thank you for your partnership and continued advocacy for public education.

 

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PROTECTING OUR YOUTH

Senator Cortese with Girl Scouts of Northern California Troop 62435

It was great welcoming Girl Scouts of Northern California Troop 62435 to my Capitol office as they advocated for AB 2924 — legislation that would prohibit child marriage in California. 

Their leadership, courage, and commitment to protecting young people is inspiring. Thank you for raising your voices and standing up for the rights and safety of children across our state.

 

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UPHOLDING FIRE-SAFETY REGULATIONS

As the 2026 legislative session unfolds, I am pleased to inform you that I have introduced Senate Bill 870 (SB 870) which will help protect Californians of all ages from dangerous tabletop firepits that do not adhere to fire-safety regulations given the growing number of fires that have resulted in severe burn injuries, and in some cases death.

These tabletop firepits are marketed as family-friendly, harmless, decorative products ideal for roasting marshmallows indoors, but the reality is far more dangerous. These products have been linked to sudden flare-ups and explosive fires that can cause life-altering burn injuries in seconds. I look forward to working alongside my legislative colleagues to pass this critical piece of legislation to ensure the safety of all Californians.

 

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HOLDING AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES ACCOUNTABLE

The recent power outage in San Francisco that left Waymo robotaxis stalled across city streets — blocking intersections and slowing emergency response — underscores a simple but critical truth: we cannot allow innovation without accountability. Public safety, transparency, and robust oversight must be non-negotiable.

Autonomous vehicle technology offers exciting possibilities, but when driverless taxis suddenly stop in the middle of traffic during an outage — and we’re left asking what happens when an earthquake strikes — it’s clear we need local rules and real emergency readiness plans in place before continuing large scale deployment. Today cities have zero regulating power over autonomous vehicles. State law will be needed to change that.

 

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RESPONDING TO THE GOVERNOR’S BUDGET PROPOSAL & STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS

Governor Gavin Newsom delivered his final State of the State Address as well as his 2026-2027 Budget Proposal. Read my full statement here: Senator Dave Cortese Responds to Governor Gavin Newsom’s 2026-2027 Budget Proposal | Senator Dave Cortese.

 

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STANDING WITH THE VIETNAMESE COMMUNITY

Senator Cortese photographed with members and leaders of the Vietnamese American Community in Santa Clara County

As Chair of the CA Senate Transportation Committee, I am proud to have supported Assemblyman Ash Kalra’s (AD 25) Assembly Concurrent Resolution 71 (ACR 71) which will designate a portion of Highway 101 in the County of Santa Clara from Story Road at the junction of Highway 280 and Highway 680 as Little Saigon Freeway.

This recognition honors the Vietnamese American community whose resilience, entrepreneurship, and cultural contributions have shaped our region. Designating this stretch of Highway 101 as the Little Saigon Freeway is a meaningful acknowledgment of a community that has overcome displacement and hardship to build vibrant neighborhoods and lasting institutions. I am honored to stand with our Vietnamese American community in celebrating their history, their contributions and their future. I look forward to working with my legislative colleagues to get this important piece of legislation to the Governor for his signature.

 

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STANDING STRONG FOR AN EQUITABLE HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

I am proud to announce that I’ve earned 100% on the Health Access California 2025 Legislative Scorecard! I am grateful to be a California Health Consumer Champion and to stand for a more universal, affordable, and equitable health care system for all Californians. Thank you for this honor, Health Access California!

 

 

My Work, In the News

 

SENATE BILL 429: THE NATION’S FIRST PUBLIC WILDFIRE MODEL

SB 429 establishes the first-in-the-nation Wildfire Catastrophe Public Model to assess wildfire risk, inform insurance rates, and educate the public. This bill will ensure transparency to help homeowners understand if they’re getting a fair deal on insurance. This bill will also improve wildfire preparedness and response through better data and planning tools. Check out these recent articles to learn more: 

• Lake County News:  New laws to strengthen consumer protections and wildfire resilience go into effect
• Action News Now: New laws to boost wildfire safety and consumer protection for Californians
• KQED: New California Insurance Laws on the Books in 2026

 

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SENATE BILL 30: DECOMISSIONING DIESEL LOCOMOTIVES

SB 30 ensures that diesel locomotives that are decommissioned by public agencies cannot be resold or donated for continued diesel-use, preventing harmful emissions from polluting communities in California or elsewhere. Check out these recent articles to learn more:: 

• Politico: From IVF to AI: California ushers in a wave of far-reaching laws
• Politico: Sacramento returns to Trump’s climate whirlwind

 

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SENATE BILL 870: REGULATING TABLETOP FIRE PITS

SB 870 establishes the first-in-the-nation Wildfire Catastrophe Public Model to assess wildfire risk, inform insurance rates, and educate the public. This bill will ensure transparency to help homeowners understand if they’re getting a fair deal on insurance. This bill will also improve wildfire preparedness and response through better data and planning tools. Check out these recent articles to learn more: 

• Sierra Sun Times: California State Senator Dave Cortese Introduces Proposal Calling for Greater Safety Regulations of Tabletop Fire Pits to Prevent Further Burn Injury Victims

 

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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. This bill will reduce sidewalk obstructions, environmental pollution, and flood risks caused by abandoned carts. Check out these recent articles to learn more:: 

• San Jose Spotlight: New laws affecting Silicon Valley in 2026

 

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SENATE BILL 602: EXPANDING ACCESS TO VETERINARY CARE

SB 602 makes veterinary care more accessible by expanding access to low-cost veterinary care and reducing barriers for underserved pet owners and shelter animals. A public health measure, this bill will enhance disease control efforts by ensuring more pets are protected from common diseases in a timely manner. Check out these articles to learn more: 

• Times of San Diego: New statewide animal protection, vet care laws to take effect Jan. 1
• KESQ: New California laws to protect animals, boost veterinary care take effect on Jan. 1
• CBS 8: New California laws aim to protect pets, boost veterinary care in 2026

 

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TRANSPORTATION & HIGH-SPEED RAIL

• Politico E&E News: California transportation chair wants to help high-speed rail reset
• San Francisco Chronicle: California abandons lawsuit over $4 billion in federal high-speed rail funds
• Hoodline: San Diego Transit Bosses Throw Up Roadblock To Waymo Robotaxis
• CBS 8: California drops lawsuit over high-speed rail funding, moves forward without federal support
• The Existentialist Republic: Wins in 2025: Free Childcare, $11 Insulin, and Seizing Wage Thieves’ Bank Accounts

 

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CHECK OUT OTHER NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

• The Center Square: WATCH: California lawmakers begin to think of 2026 priorities
• The Sacramento Observer: Newsom’s $349B Budget Earns Praise For Stability, Warnings Over Cuts

 

Check out my full 2025 legislative package HERE!

 

Free Community Events

 

COMMUNITY DAY AT JEFFERY FONTANA PARK

Join a morning of volunteering at Jeffery Fontana Park Rose Garden, to help beautify the park grounds and make a positive impact on our shared community spaces! Community will take place at 1225 Golden Oak Way, San Jose on February 8th from 9:45AM to 12:30PM. No experience is necessary. Dress for the weather, the event will be held--rain or shine. 

For more information and to fill out the Volunteer Service Agreement, see here: Community Day at Jeffery Fontana Park Rose Garden Tickets, Sun, Feb 8, 2026 at 9:45 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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SANTANA ROW LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATION

Santana Row welcomes the Year of the Horse with a Lunar New Year Festival hosted by NBC Bay Area. Join on Saturday, February 21st from 11AM- 1PM in Santana Row Park and enjoy the exciting drumbeats and crashing symbols of the lion dances, cultural performances, arts & crafts and more. 

For more information, see here: Lunar New Year Celebration - Santana Row 

 

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US POSTAL SERVICE JOB FAIR

Attend the US Postal Service San Jose Job Fair on February 11th from 10AM to 2PM at the USPS Willow Glen Station, where staff will help you submit your online application for a job with the U.S. Postal Service. They will have computers on site and HR staff and local Postmasters will be there to provide guidance! 

For more information, see here: US Postal Service Job Fair - SAN JOSE Tickets, Wed, Feb 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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SILICON VALLEY EDUCATION FOUNDATION AI INSTITUTE

Join on February 25th for this AI Institute Listening Session, hosted by the Silicon Valley Education Foundation (SV[e]F) in partnership with San José State University. This event launches the 2026 AI Institute and invites the community into an open conversation about how artificial intelligence is shaping education.

Together, the institute explore how AI is impacting teaching and learning and how schools can thoughtfully and responsibly integrate AI to support today’s learners. The session will take place at the Sobrato Center for Nonprofits, on February 25th from 4:30-6PM. 

For more information, see here: SV[e]F's AI Institute - Clarity in the Noise Tickets, Wed, Feb 25, 2026 at 4:30 PM | Eventbrite.

 

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BLACK PARENT TOWN HALL

Join the Santa Clara County Alliance of Black Educators and the African Ancestry Museum and Educational Center for an in-person gathering where Black parents can connect, share stories, and discuss important topics affecting our families. It’s a relaxed space to voice your thoughts, get support, and plan for a better future. This event will take place at Dr. Roberto Cruz Alum Rock Branch Library on February 21st from 1 to 4PM. 

See here for more information: Black Parent Town Hall Tickets, Sat, Feb 21, 2026 at 1:00 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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2026 NFL PLAY FOOTBALL FAMILY FESTIVAL

Join an exciting day at the 2026 NFL Play Football Family Festival at Santa Clara Unified School District’s MacDonald High School on February 7th from 10AM-1PM! Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply looking for a fun day out with the whole family, this event has something for everyone. Celebrate the excitement of Super Bowl LX while enjoying a day of interactive games, live entertainment, player appearances, and more. 

For more information, see here: 2026 NFL Play Football Family Festival Tickets, Sat, Feb 7, 2026 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

 

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OUR CITY FOREST LAWN CONVERSION WORKSHOP

Join Our City Forest for a Lawn Conversion Workshop on February 21st from 9-10:30AM, where you will learn how to convert your lawn into a drought-tolerant garden! In this workshop, at the Our City Forest Urban Forestry Education Center, educators will discuss the Valley Water Landscape rebate program, how to choose plants for your yard, and the steps to converting a lawn. Additionally, they will host a shrub ID tour with our plants around the education center. 

This workshop will provide you with resources to start your own lawn conversion. DIY Lawn Conversion Workshop Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite.

 

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URBAN FORESTRY EDUCATION CENTER

Help Our City Forest beautify their Arboretum and Demonstration Gardens while learning about Urban Forestry, ISA Certified Arborist, Bridget Thorpe will be leading this hands on workshop for participants to learn proper pruning techniques for shrubs and gardens. Join at 391 Chynoweth Avenue, San Jose, on February 28th from 9AM to 12PM. 

For more information, see here: Shrub Pruning Workshop at the Urban Forestry Education Center Tickets, Sat, Feb 28, 2026 at 9:00 AM | Eventbrite.

 

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MORGAN HILL WINTER BIKE RIDE

Join Bike Therapy for their weekly Tuesday morning Winter Bike Ride, an intermediate 30-mile Road bike ride every Tuesday at 6:30AM. The ride will begin at 17540 Depot St. Morgan Hill, CA 95037. Upcoming dates include February 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th. 

For more information and to fill out the Ride Waiver in advance, see here: Tuesday Morning Winter Bike Ride Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite. 

 

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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