Dog Days & Policy Plays: August in Action 🐕 Newsletter

Dear Friends and Neighbors, 

August is always a pivotal month here in California. While families are squeezing in the last days of summer break, the California State Legislature is entering its busiest stretch of the year. With just weeks left in the legislative session, we’re working hard to finalize bills that impact everything from housing and public safety to education and environmental protection. Learn about my complete 2025-2026 legislative package here! 

Alongside bills that I’ve authored, I’m also working diligently on legislation that I’ve co-authored with my colleagues in the Legislature. SB 616, which modernizes home fire protection standards, and SB 581 (the Fight for Firefighters Act), which transitions 3,000 firefighters to full-time status, are just a few initiatives out of dozens that I’m collaborating on. With the Legislature re-convening on August 18th, I am eager to keep moving forward. 

This time of year brings heightened awareness around wildfire safety and emergency preparedness. With rising temperatures and increasingly dry conditions, it’s critical that we continue to support policies and resources that protect our communities, first responders, and the environment. My office’s Wildfire Town Hall this past month was an excellent opportunity for community leaders, constituents, and fire prevention experts alike to learn from one another. 

This month, there are many opportunities to connect with community. Check out your local National Night Out celebration on August 5th, an annual nation-wide community building campaign that promotes police/community partnerships and neighborhood spirit. Look out for me at the Silicon Valley Pride Parade on August 31st as well, the 50th anniversary of this local celebratory festival! For additional ways to stay engaged, see the free community events below.

As always, your feedback, ideas, and advocacy help guide my work. I’m proud to represent a district full of resilient constituents who show up for one another. I remain committed to working every day toward a safer, healthier, and more equitable future for our communities. If you need any help navigating state services, accessing emergency resources, or participating in local events, my office is here for you. Please don’t hesitate to call my District Office at (408) 723-4154 or send an email at Senator.Cortese@sen.ca.gov. 

 

HERE IN DISTRICT 15

PATRIOTIC PARADING ON THE ALAMEDA

Community volunteers parading with Senator Cortese, holding a banner and flags 

The traditional Rose, White, and Blue Parade in the City of San Jose on the Fourth of July never disappoints! It was so much fun riding through the parade route and seeing so many friends and neighbors. It was terrific to see our U.S. Senator Adam Schiff at the parade, among numerous other community leaders! 

Thank you to all who marched alongside me and Pattie. Thank you also to all the parade volunteers who made it a Rose, White, and Blue success!

 

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SPEAKING IN SOLIDARITY

Senator Cortese on a Panel with Santa Clara County Supervisors Otto Lee and Betty Duong

Powerful emotions filled the room at the Faith Community Action on Immigration: Hope and Healing event in East San José, where residents gathered alongside local and state leaders to stand in solidarity with our immigrant communities. We heard a clear call: the County of Santa Clara must expand access to legal services and establish universal legal representation for undocumented residents. As fear and attacks against immigrant families grow, we must build real safety nets, from county policies to state legislation. For free or low-cost legal aid, visit LawHelpCA.org.

The event was hosted by People Acting in Community Together (PACT). I am truly grateful to PACT’s new Executive Director, Jon Pedigo, for his tremendous efforts and leadership. 

I also want to share the incredible work of our local Rapid Response Network in Santa Clara County, which offers training, a 24/7 hotline, and urgent legal referrals at (408) 290-1144. This year, the State Legislature approved more than $125 million to expand legal services, including $75 million in ongoing state funding and an additional $50 million in one-time support, to help ensure Californians, including our immigrant communities, have access to justice and support. 

 

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DISCUSSION AND DISSENT

Seniors from The Villages sitting around tables during Senator Cortese’s presentation

I had a spirited, timely discussion with Seniors living at The Villages, a retirement community of thousands of residents nestled in the foothills of Evergreen. We talked about issues that impact them directly, from proposed cuts to Medi-Cal, to wildfire legislation and recent state challenges, to missteps made by ICE in our state. 

I let them know my opposition to any Federal effort to scale-back our commitment to provide Medi-Cal access, especially since large numbers of Seniors rely on these services. I also discussed my wildfire legislation on fire insurance protections for homeowners’ properties. This timely and rich discussion was organized by The Villages Democrat Club. 

 

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CLEANING UP OUR COMMUNITY

Hundreds of ASEZ WAO volunteers behind a banner reading “E. Santa Clara Street Cleanup”

It was so inspirational that 240 people turned out at the ASEZ WAO Mega Clean-Up in Downtown San Jose! It was a lovely initiative to clean up our community, in partnership with Beautify San Jose. Thank you to my staff member, Meghan Bedi, for participating. 

 

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HONORING ARMED FORCES

Vietnamese flags and a banner, held by community members at the Former Vietnam Armed Forces’ Day Event 

Vietnam Armed Forces Day was celebrated at the County Government Center as a significant day of honor and community gathering on June 22nd. The event was sponsored and hosted by the Office of Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee, in commemoration and remembrance of the brave men and women who served in the South Vietnamese military. Thank you to staffer Phuong Nguyen, who represented our office at the event.

 

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COMMEMORATING THE MORGAN HILL FREEDOM FEST

Staffer photographed with Mayor of Morgan Hill, Mark Turner 

The 37th annual ‘Patriotic Sing’ known as the City of Morgan Hill Freedom Fest kicked off the Fourth of July Weekend! The songs of America were sung by children in grades 1-5 at the Morgan Hill Amphitheater!

Staffer Meghan Bedi presented a Senate Resolution to the Mayor of Morgan Hill, Mark Turner, and the President of Morgan Hill Freedom Fest, in honor of the event and the 150 years the area has held the festive Fourth of July parade! 
 

 

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CELEBRATING SERVICE

Members of the Almaden Super Lions Club sitting at tables at Lake Cunningham Park

The Almaden Super Lions Club serving South San Jose today held its much deserved annual picnic at Lake Cunningham Park! As a chapter member of the San Jose Japantown Lions Club, we were honored to be invited. 

This organization is tireless in all they do to make life better for our residents, including providing free eye exams and glasses for school children. Staffer Phuong Nguyen represented our office.

 

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RIBBON-CUTTING FOR REACCREDITATION

Members of the Almaden Super Lions Club sitting at tables at Lake Cunningham Park

As a 1995 graduate of Lincoln Law School of San Jose, it meant so much to me to join the San Jose Chamber, law students, and community leaders to celebrate Lincoln’s reaccreditation by the State Bar of California. 

The affordable Lincoln Law School is known for having a diverse student body, and for being an affordable and accessible institution. Both Assemblymember Kalra and I were honored to receive the Dean’s Awards for Legacy of Honor and Outstanding Service. 

The celebration at Lincoln happened as my legislation to integrate Lincoln Law School with San Jose State University is making its way through the legislative process. Senate Bill 550 would help establish California’s first public law school in the CSU system as well as the first public law school in San Jose.

 

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PRESERVING HISTORY AND HOUSING

Senator Dave Cortese speaking at the 35th Anniversary of the Preservation Action Council of San Jose 

The 35th Anniversary of the Preservation Action Council of San Jose was such a treat for me and Pattie to attend with so many longtime friends! The Council is dedicated to preserving San Jose’s history while supporting our needs to move forward on the progress of our city. Happy Anniversary!

 

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LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

Staffer presenting Senate Certificates to leaders of Special Olympics Northern California

The Opening Ceremony for the Special Olympics NCA 2025 Summer Games was underway at Santa Clara University! These summer games welcome athletes from dozens of counties to compete in swimming, track & field, bocce, and tennis. 

The event is a high-visibility, multi-day affair, which showcases the talent, determination, kindness, and joy of our Special Olympics NorCal community! Staffer Zach Contini represented my office. All the best to the athletes!

 

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PROMOTING HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Staffer Ava tabling at the Citywide Older Adults Color Walk 

Promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for our community’s older adults was the popular theme of the Citywide Older Adults “Color Walk” at Lake Cunningham Park. 

My office tabled at the event, which drew hundreds of our residents to the resource fair. Thank you to the City of San Jose Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhood Services!

 

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SAYING GOODBYE

Steve Eckert speaking at a podium during his Alum Rock Counseling Center Retirement Celebration

It was a wonderful celebration for Steve Eckert, the CEO of the Alum Rock Counseling Center (ARCC)!

 Steve is retiring after eight years of leading the non-profit organization that serves more than 6,000 at-risk youth and their families each year. His 43 years of experience in behavioral health has served our community well. Thank you Steve and enjoy your retirement! 

 

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WILDFIRE SAFETY & MITIGATION VIRTUAL TOWN HALL

Photograph of Virtual Town Hall presentation by Senator Cortese

On July 10th, my office hosted a virtual town hall on wildfire safety and mitigation. We were joined by Seth Schalet, CEO of the Santa Clara County Fire Safe Council, and others, as we discussed what actions are being taken on the issue of wildfire mitigation. We also presented tips for you about what you can do around your own homes to mitigate wildfire risk in your community! We had over 120 attendees. 

Please contact my office at (408) 723-4154 if you have any questions about the town hall or any additional questions pertaining to wildfire safety. 

 

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IN OUR STATE CAPITOL

BOBBLEHEADS AND LABOR STANDARDS

Senator Cortese holding a bobblehead

It’s not every day you get a bobblehead without being a MLB player! I’m thrilled to be one of 5 California Senators and 21 California Legislators to receive a bobblehead for having a 100 percent voting record on the legislative priorities of the California Labor Federation in 2024!

Those bills included everything from Labor Standards to Housing to Farmworker Heat Injury & Death Prevention. 

 

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CELEBRATING PRIDE HONOREES

Senator Cortese photographed with Molly O’Neal

On the Senate floor we celebrated County of Santa Clara, California‘s former, longest serving Public Defender Molly O’Neal as one of the Pride Honorees of 2025!

Every year the California Legislative LGBTQ+ Caucus invites honorees from around the state to the Capitol to be recognized for being such an inspiration. We passed Senate Resolution 48 proclaiming June 2025 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month and urging all Californians to join in the celebration! 

 

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ARMENIAN AMERICAN ALLEGIANCE

Graphic reading “Breaking! California State Senator David Cortese has officially joined the California Armenian Legislative Caucus”

Read my statement on this news here: “I’m proud to stand with the Armenian American community in Santa Clara County and across California. As an ally and member of the California Armenian Legislative Caucus Foundation, I remain committed to preserving and sharing Armenia’s history, protecting Armenia’s sovereignty, and ensuring that Armenian American voices are heard at every level of government. We must also ensure that future generations understand the history of the Armenian Genocide and that they too carry forward these lessons and stories.” 

 

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RECOGNIZING INDO AMERICAN LEADERSHIP

Senator Cortese photographed with members of the Association of Indo Americans

On the floor of the State Senate, I recognized the advisory committee of the Association of Indo Americans. These ten leaders guide the organization’s important work to support Indian Americans in my district and beyond.

They have hosted Bollywood-themed concerts, fashion shows, craft expos, food festivals, religious celebrations, and more to honor Indian culture and heritage. Their events draw tens of thousands of attendees, strengthening community among individuals who are Indian and within the Indian diaspora. These events also showcase Indian culture to the broader community and provide an opportunity to connect across differences.

 

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SUPPORTING LEGAL EDUCATION, ACCESS, AND ADVOCACY

Senator Cortese photographed with Magnus Herrlin

A big thank you to Magnus Herrlin, former President of the SJSU Pre-Law Society, for their incredible advocacy in support of my bill, SB 550, to create San Jose’s first public law school!

Magnus has provided powerful testimony before the Senate Education and Judiciary Committees as well as the Assembly Higher Education Committee to help highlight the urgent need for a public law school option in Silicon Valley.It’s inspiring to see young leaders that are working to expand access and representation across our society. 

 

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CONVENING FOR OLYMPIC PREPARATION

Senator Cortese photographed on the Senate Special Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games & the 2026 FIFA World Cup

I joined my colleagues on a Senate Special Committee working to prepare for the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games and the 2026 FIFA World Cup in California.

We were joined by LA28 CEO General Reynold Hoover, who traveled to Sacramento to share how these global events could bring an estimated $18 billion economic boost to California’s economy and create 94,000 jobs, plus investments in youth sports and lasting community benefits. I will continue to make sure these global events benefit us locally, and that we put our best foot forward for the rest of the world.

The County has affirmed our support for Ukraine and our local Ukrainian American community by changing the Sister Commission’s name from the County of Santa Clara/Moscow Commission to the Ukraine Citizen Diplomacy Commission.

 

 

My Work, In the News

 

SB 551: PRINCIPLES OF INCARCERATION TO REDUCE RECIDIVISM

SB 551 codifies principles promoting respect-based interactions between staff and incarcerated individuals in our prison system to create a safer and more rehabilitative environment for incarcerated individuals and correctional staff. By adopting these evidence-based principles, SB 551 will improve safety, enhance rehabilitation, and support community reintegration.

• Vanguard News Group: California Bill Aims to Reduce Recidivism and Improve Officer Health

 

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SB 61: FAIR PAY FOR CONTRACTORS

SB 61 protects small and minority-owned construction businesses by capping how much money can be withheld from payments on private projects, aligning with public works policy. SB 61 improves cash flow, ensures fair compensation, and supports a stable construction industry. By reducing financial strain on contractors—particularly small businesses—this bill strengthens the construction industry, increases workforce stability, and ensures workers receive fair compensation without excessive payment delays. 

• Vanguard News Group: California Assembly Advances Bill to Ease Financial Burden on Contractors

 

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SENATE BILL 550: EXPANDING ACCESS TO LEGAL EDUCATION IN SAN JOSE

California has nearly half a million CSU students—but no public law school in the CSU system. SB 550 changes that by authorizing the incorporation of a state-accredited, law school into San José State University. This would create the first public law school in San Jose and Santa Clara County, expanding affordable legal education and opening new pathways to legal careers—especially for working adults and underrepresented students in Silicon Valley and across the state. Check out these articles to learn more:

• San Jose Spotlight: Cortese: San Jose deserves its first public law school

 

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SENATE BILL 33 & SENATE BILL 685: EDUCATION AND STUDENT SUPPORT

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. This support will help prevent the "summer melt"—where students with college acceptance fail to enroll due to financial barriers—and promote educational attainment. Sponsors of this bill include Economic Security Project Action, End Poverty in California, Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, United Way California Capital Region, and the County of Santa Clara.

SB 685 establishes the Financial Assistance for Students Experiencing Homelessness Program at three California State University (CSU) campuses, including San Jose State University, to cover unmet financial aid gaps for homeless students. This bill will help homeless students stay enrolled, graduate from a university, and transition to stable employment.

• Mercury News: Letters: Bills offer California steps to end student homelessness

 

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MY FIGHT FOR FIREFIGHTERS

• NBC Bay Area: Cal Fire to receive funding boost to help bolster year-round staffing

 

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CALIFORNIA ARMENIAN LEGISLATIVE CAUCUS FOUNDATION

•  The Armenian Mirror-Spectator: Assemblymember Greg Wallis and Senator Dave Cortese Join California Armenian Legislative Caucus Foundation

• The California Courier: Senator Dave Cortese Joins California Armenian legislative Caucus Foundation

 

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HIGH SPEED RAIL & BAY AREA TRANSIT

• The Mercury News: State budget includes $750 million in loans to keep Bay Area transit agencies running while new tax sought

• State Affairs: Loss of federal funds won’t derail California high-speed rail, transportation chair Cortese says

• NBC Bay Area: California awaits fate of high-speed rail in federal funding clash

• Check out these High Speed Rail Progress Pictures!

 

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

• Napa Valley Register: Rep. Mike Thompson, other Bay Area leaders decry U.S. strikes on Iran

• The Mercury News: Bay Area Democrats lambaste Trump’s Iran attack

• Palo Alto Daily Post: Bay Area reps says Trump should have consulted with Congress before bombing Iran

 

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CHECK OUT OTHER NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

• The Mercury News: ‘We celebrate all’: America’s diversity and concern on display at San Jose Fourth of July parade 

• The Epoch Times: Lawmakers Request Audits on California Bay Area Bridge Tolls, Fuel Regulations

• Politico: ‘Abundance’ movement hits a labor wall in California 

•  KTVU: Supreme Court ruling adds uncertainty to California Planned Parenthood funding

• India West Journal: CA Legislature Honors Jainism And Northern California Jain Center

• Local 600: IATSE’s Battle to Protect Members Pays Off With Passage of Landmark Set Safety Law

Check out my full 2025 legislative package HERE!

 

 

Free Community Events

 

AGE FRIENDLY SANTA CLARA COUNTY COMMUNITY PARTNER LISTENING SESSION

The World Health Organization’s Age-friendly Cities framework addresses eight interconnected “domains of livability” that identify and address barriers impacting the well-being and participation of older individuals. Santa Clara County received its Age-Friendly designation in 2018; you can find out more about the original action planning at: https://www.agefriendlysiliconvalley.org/. 

Six community listening sessions were conducted across the county in June and July and now we'd like to hear from our partners. For questions about the session, you can contact seniorsagenda@ssa.sccgov.org. For more information and to sign up, see here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/community-partner-listening-session-tickets-1431847848459?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

 

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SV[E]F'S ANNUAL NORCAL MATH SUMMIT

Join the Silicon Valley Education Foundation’s Annual NorCal Math Summit as they explore how artificial intelligence can revolutionize math instruction. This year’s theme, Reimagining Math — Innovative AI Integration for Today’s Classrooms, centers on cutting-edge research and tools that empower educators to thoughtfully integrate AI into their classrooms to better meet the needs of today’s learners. This year's summit will take place at San José State University in Sweeney Hall on August 5th from 9AM – 1:30PM! For more information and to register, see here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/svefs-annual-norcal-math-summit-tickets-1447907142239?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

 

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VEGGIELUTION FARM VOLUNTEERING - SATURDAY FIELD WORK 

Join Veggielution in taking care of their farm on August 2nd from 8:30-10:30AM at 647 South King Road San Jose, CA 95116! Farm tasks can include planting, weeding, watering, harvesting, and much, much more! All volunteers must sign-in upon arriving to the farm, which includes a liability waiver. You must be age 13 or older to volunteer on the farm. Middle and High School students, ages 13 to 17, MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian/chaperone. To reserve a spot, see here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/veggielution-farm-volunteering-saturday-field-work-tickets-1369113438149?aff=ebdssbdestsearch.

 

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NATIONAL NIGHT OUT – SAN JOSE

Join over 38 million neighbors across more than 16 thousand communities around the nation for National Night Out, an annual community building campaign that promotes police/community partnerships and neighborhood spirit to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live.

You are invited to participate with your neighbors throughout San José in celebration of National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5th, 2025! National Night Out is a crime prevention event that is sponsored nationally by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the San Jose Police Department.

For more information, see here: https://www.sjpd.org/community/crime-prevention/national-night-out

 

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SILICON VALLEY PRIDE PARADE

Silicon Valley PRIDE is poised to make history this Labor Day Weekend, August 30–31, 2025, with its 50th Anniversary festival themed “Unstoppable: 50 Years of Love, Legacy & Liberation.” This year’s festivities will unfold at Plaza de César Chávez Park in Downtown San Jose. The Night Festival takes place on Saturday, August 30 from 6 PM to 11 PM; the Parade marches on Sunday, August 31 from 10:30 AM to 12 PM, starting at Julian Street & Market Street and ending at the park; and the Day Festival continues on Sunday, August 31 from 12 PM to 6 PM, offering music, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. 

For more information on tickets, volunteering, parade participation, or vendor opportunities, visit svpride.com. This milestone celebration is open to families, allies, and community members of all backgrounds—everyone is invited to take part in honoring 50 years of unwavering pride in the heart of Silicon Valley. 

 

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MUSIC IN THE SQUARE: SUMMER SERIES

Get ready to groove under the summer sky at Music in the Square!

Every Friday evening from June through August 29th, join a free, family-friendly concert series featuring live music from local bands and artists from 6-8PM. Whether you're dancing with friends, enjoying a picnic dinner, or just soaking in the vibes — there's no better way to kick off your weekends. Live music every Friday.

• Bring your lawn chairs & blankets
• Local vendors, shops, & restaurants nearby
• Free & open to the public

Tag your friends, bring the whole family, and let the music move you! Follow @EvergreenVillageSquare for weekly band announcements and event updates. For more information here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/music-in-the-square-summer-series-tickets-1357972595589?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

 

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STOP THE BLEED - COMMUNITY TRAINING DAY

This hands-on training is taught on August 25th by the Stanford Health Care Trauma Service. It is free and open to the public.

Objectives:

• Learn to identify life-threatening bleeding.
• Learn how to intervene while waiting for 911 to arrive.
• Practice skills to effectively control bleeding, including how to directly apply pressure, apply a military-grade tourniquet, and pack an open bleeding wound. 

For more information and to sign up, see here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/stop-the-bleed-community-training-day-tickets-1014146528567?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

 

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FREE SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK

Join a delightful evening at Cupertino’s Memorial Park Amphitheater as the San Francisco Shakespeare Festival presents Shakespeare's classic comedy The Two Gentlemen of Verona on August 2nd and August 3rd! 

Bring your family and friends to enjoy professional theatre in this beautiful park setting! All shows are free to the public. No reservations or tickets are required and all seating is general and available on a first-come, first-served basis. All shows begin at 6:00pm. The show runs for 90 minutes with no intermission. For more information, see here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-shakespeare-in-the-parks-the-two-gentlemen-of-verona-tickets-1290442691829?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

 

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FIRST TEE – SILICON VALLEY 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

First Tee – Silicon Valley is celebrating its 25th Anniversary—a year-long recognition of the 100,000 kids and teens we’ve served through life skills and golf programming. This celebration culminates in a family-friendly, community-centered Anniversary Open House on Friday, August 16th from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course in East San Jose. It’s a FUN and FREE Event for families to enjoy the golf course, range, putting green, festive music, and meaningful community connections. Visit FTSV.org for more information.

 

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THIRD FRIDAY ART WALK IN 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, August 15th. For more information and to reserve a spot, see here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/third-friday-art-walk-tickets-1310630524179?aff=ebdssbcitybrowse.

 

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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