The Home Stretch: Progress, Pride, & Public Service 🏛️

Dear Friends and Neighbors, 

Happy August! I hope you and your loved ones have enjoyed a restful summer and are making the most of these final weeks before school resumes and the busy fall season begins.

As the Legislature returns from summer recess, I am back at the Capitol for the final stretch of this year's legislative session. Before recess, I supported the adoption of the State’s 2026-27 Budget, delivering historic investments in education, health care, housing, transportation, and working families. Additionally, several of my bills cleared important Assembly committees, including SB 1392 (Leno's Law), SB 1246 on autonomous vehicle transparency, and SB 1250 on reducing dangerous wildlife-vehicle collisions across California. My bill, SB 33 on claims resolution for public works projects, was signed by Governor Newsom! I remain committed to seeing all my legislation cross the finish line before the Legislature adjourns at the end of the month. To stay up to date on my complete legislative package, see here.

As the pace picks back up in Sacramento, my District Office is committed to serving Senate District 15 and connecting with community. That being said, I encourage you to join me at this year’s Silicon Valley PRIDE Parade on Sunday, August 30^th, as we celebrate 51 years of marching for love, diversity, and equality. If you are interested in joining me, register HERE or at www.tinyurl.com/ctzxk636! My office is also thrilled to be participating again in National Night Out (NNO) on August 4^th, an annual community building campaign that promotes police/community partnerships and neighborhood spirit. My team will be engaged and active in events all across Senate District 15! Finally, look out for updated information on my website regarding my 4^th Annual Picnic by the Lake Multicultural Festival and Resource Fair on Saturday, October 10^th. Until then, wishing you and your families a safe and healthy August. 

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 Service,

 

IN THE DISTRICT & AT THE CAPITOL

Pattie and I had a great time at Morgan Hill Freedom Fest's July 4th Parade, our first time ever participating since the city was added to my 15th Senate District. Thousands of residents from all walks of life came out to celebrate and honor our great nation's 250th anniversary!

Fun fact: Morgan Hill’s July 4th parade is the oldest continuous July 4^th parade in the Western states, now in its 151st year running. Thank you to Mayor of Morgan Hill Mark Turner and Morgan Hill Councilmembers, Miriam Vega and Yvonne Martínez Beltrán, for welcoming me, my staff and volunteers. My staff also participated in San Jose’s Rose, White and Blue 4th of July Parade. Together we have been supportive since its inception. 

Check out more of my recent community involvement on my website’s Photo Gallery here!

 

 

MY WORK, IN THE NEWS

If you and/or your organization support any of the following bills, I urge you to submit an official Letter of Support here: California Legislature Position Letter Portal!
 

SB 1392: “JAY LENO’S LAW” - SMOG EXEMPTIONS FOR CLASSIC AND COLLECTIBLE VEHICLES

SB 1392 expands smog exemptions for certain collector cars.

• SEMA News: Leno's Law Advances Toward Next Key Vote
• Sierra Sun Times: California State Senator Dave Cortese's “Jay Leno's Law 2.0” Advances Out of Assembly Transportation Committee

 

SB 1246: AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE REMOTE OPERATOR AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE STANDARDS

SB 1246 makes our roads safer and increases public trust in commercial autonomous vehicles like robo-taxis by standardizing remote AV practices, ensuring there are rapid responses to AV incidents, and facilitating more collaboration between AV operators and first responders during emergencies.

• NBC San Diego: Waymo's vehicles ready to drive themselves in San Diego, company says
• Inc.: Waymo Is Coming to 4 New Cities—but Not Everyone Will Be Able to Immediately Hail a Ride
• ACT News: California AV Bill Advances as Heavy-Duty Testing Rules Take Effect

 

SCA 5: EDUCATION EQUALIZATION ACT

SCA 5 establishes the Education Equalization Act, which seeks to close the funding gap between different school districts and to ensure no student receives less for their education based on the zip code they live in.

• CalMatters: Some California schools get three times more funding than others. Here’s why
• Politico: The other tax fight on the ballot 

 

SB 33: IMPROVING THE CLAIMS-RESOLUTION PROCESS FOR PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS

SB 33 makes permanent the fair and efficient claims-resolution process for public works projects by removing the January 1, 2027 sunset in Public Contract Code § 9204.  

• Governor Gavin Newsom (Press Release): Governor Newsom signs legislation 7.16.2026

 

TRANSPORTATION NEWS MENTIONS

• KCRA 3, CA Politics 360: California Senate transportation committee chair demands answers from DMV on driver's license test | CA Politics 360
• ABC10: California DMV cites possible cheating in 11,000 retest notices, lawmakers demand answers
• The SF Chronicle: California DMV says cheating concerns prompted decision to force 11,000 drivers to retake tests
• LA Times: ‘I didn’t cheat.’ California DMV’s test fraud claims spark frustration, anger
• Univision: 11,000 californianos deben volver a hacer examen de conducir por sospechas de trampa

 

HEALTHCARE NEWS MENTIONS

Check out my recent Op-Ed on rising healthcare costs and the need for Fair Share contributions from wealthy corporations. 

• The Mercury News: Cortese: Why are California taxpayers paying the health care bills of trillion-dollar corporations?

 

CHECK OUT OTHER NEWS HIGHLIGHTS & MENTIONS

• Youtube.com: EarthX: Making Your Voice Heard for Climate Restoration with Dave Cortese
• The Mercury News: California revives $900 million homelessness program after Newsom reverses course
• The Mercury News: ‘San Jose gave us a chance to rebuild, America gave us a chance to live free’: Stolen monument stirs emotions in Vietnamese community
• Net Zero Investor: CalPERS ‘on track’ with £100bn climate commitments, CIO says

 

Check out my full 2025 legislative package HERE!

 

FREE COMMUNITY EVENTS

WALK WITH ME AT THE SILICON VALLEY PRIDE PARADE!

Join me at this year’s Silicon Valley PRIDE Parade, on Sunday, August 30th, 2026! Hosted annually by Silicon Valley PRIDE, this year’s parade celebrates 51 years of marching for love, diversity, and equality. 

If you would like to walk with me at the Silicon Valley PRIDE parade on Sunday, August 30th, 2026 please register HERE or at https://tinyurl.com/ctzxk636.  

WHEN: Sunday, August 30th, 2026 – 10:30 AM to 12 PM
WHERE:  Downtown San Jose – Julian Street & Market Street, to Plaza de César Chávez Park 

Additional details will be sent to registrants prior to the event. For any additional questions, comments, or concerns regarding the event, please reach my District Representative, Meghan Bedi, at Meghan.Bedi@sen.ca.gov or call (408) 723-4154.

 

AACI'S 2026 BACK TO SCHOOL HEALTH FAIR

Join AACI for a fun, family-friendly community event with essential health and wellness resources for children and families. Plus, free giveaways to get ready for back-to-school season! This incredible event is designed to support marginalized K-12 students and their families. This event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Join at 2400 Moorpark Avenue San Jose, CA 95128 on Saturday, August 8 from 10 AM - 1 PM.

For more information, see here: AACI's 2026 Back to School Health Fair Tickets, Saturday, August 8  •  10 AM - 1 PM | Eventbrite

 

SANTA CLARA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL OVERDOSE AWARENESS DAY 2026

The County of Santa Clara Public Health Department and Behavioral Health Services Department in partnership with the City of San José invites you to their annual International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) event. 

Hosted at Roosevelt Park in San Jose on Thursday, August 27 from 3 PM - 6 PM, this Resource Fair will feature 25 community-based organizations and provide resources such as low-barrier treatment access, harm reduction supplies, free naloxone kits, fentanyl test strip, housing resources, and community referrals.

For more information, see here: Santa Clara County International Overdose Awareness Day 2026 Tickets, Thursday, August 27  •  3 PM - 6 PM | Eventbrite

 

SAN JOSE POLLUTERS PAY TOWN  HALL

Attend the San Jose Polluters Pay Town Hall, part of the statewide Polluters Pay Tour, where community members, advocates, and local leaders will come together to discuss climate impacts, climate justice, and the urgent need to hold major fossil fuel companies accountable for the costs of climate change. The event will take place on Saturday, August 2, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 PM at 160 N. Third Street, San Jose, CA 95112. 

For more information and to RSVP, see here: Polluters Pay San Jose Town Hall.

 

AIA INDIA INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION & PARADE

Hosted annually by the Association of Indian Americans at the Plaza de Cesar Chavez in Downtown San Jose, this FREE multicultural celebration will feature India’s Independence Day Parade and a Night Market. Join with your entire family and friends on Saturday, August 15, from 2 PM - 10:30 PM

For more information, see here: Swades - India's Independence Day Celebrations Tickets, Saturday, August 15  •  2 PM - 10:30 PM | Eventbrite

 

ROOTS COMMUNITY HEALTH BLACK BREASTFEEDING WEEK RESOURCE FAIR

Black Breastfeeding Week, celebrated August 25-31, 2026, uplifts the importance of breastfeeding while honoring Black families, culture, and community.

Join Roots Community Health on Saturday, August 29^th at 1811 S. 7th St. Suite D., San Jose, CA 95112 for a Community Resource Fair to cap off a week of vibrant celebration for families and supporters. The event will feature free community resources, doula support, giveaways, and more. 

In collaboration with the County of Santa Clara Perinatal Equity Initiative (PEI), Roots Community Health Doula program is committed to supporting women through physical fitness, nutrition, and mental wellness, while providing support and working to reduce barriers, implicit bias, and disparities that impact reproductive health and birth outcomes. For more information and to RSVP, see here: Black Breastfeeding Week 2026 Tickets, Multiple dates | Eventbrite.

 

SILICON VALLEY BICYCLE COALITION SMART CYCLING CLASS

This class is being held at the Morgan Hill Community and Cultural Center (17000 Monterey Rd, Morgan Hill, CA 95037) on Saturday, August 15^th from 2PM - 4:30PM. Water and snacks will be provided. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to gain the knowledge and tools to ride safely, legally, and confidently in this rapidly evolving industry. This class run by Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition (SVBC) and is provided to the public for FREE with funding from 2016 Measure B courtesy of VTA, in partnership with the City of Morgan Hill Parks and Recreation Department. 

For more information, see here: Smart Cycling Part 1 - Everyday Riding Skills (VTA) Tickets, Saturday, August 15  •  2 PM - 4:30 PM | Eventbrite

 

SAN JOSE COMPOSTING BASICS WORKSHOP

Join in person for a fun and easy-going Composting Basics Workshop in San Jose, hosted by the UC Cooperative Extension Compost Education Program! Whether you're a total beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, we'll cover all the essentials to get your compost pile thriving. Bring your questions and enthusiasm to Rose Garden Branch Library in San Jose, CA on Saturday, August 22 from 2-4PM

For more information, see here: San Jose- Composting Basics Workshop Tickets, Saturday, August 22  •  2 PM - 4 PM | Eventbrite

 

AAI COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. Join a small team of volunteers to assist Red Cross staff in checking-in donors upon arrival, restocking canteen refreshments, and monitoring donor wellness post-donation until their departure.

No experience necessary! American Red Cross staff will train you to accomplish these tasks easily and safely, providing everything you need. On Wednesday, August 12^th at Lincoln Glen Church in San Jose, join Shift 1 from 10:45 AM to 2:00 PM or Shift 2 from 1:45 PM to 5:30 PM. Gloves, hand sanitizer, and wipes are provided. To donate blood at this drive, please register below. 

For more information and to register, see here: AAi Blood Drive Tickets, Wednesday, August 12  •  10:45 AM - 5:30 PM | Eventbrite

 

 

 

To get all state and local resources, from health insurance to building permits, click here: Resources | Senator Dave Cortese.

As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions‚ comments‚ or concerns. I can be reached at senator.cortese@sen.ca.govor by calling (408) 723-4154.

 

IMPORTANT UPDATES & RESOURCES

 

ORGANIZE FOR EXPOSURE’S ANNUAL BULLYING PREVENTION EVENT

The ExPosure Bullying Prevention Event is one of the San Francisco Bay Area's most recognized community initiatives dedicated to preventing bullying, promoting youth safety, and building positive school climates. Each year, the event brings together youth, educators, families, business leaders, and public officials to champion kindness, inclusion, mental wellness, and pathways to success through education, mentorship, and community partnerships.

The ExPosure Bullying Prevention Event on October 1, 2026 at San Jose City Hall is mobilizing the community to equip 10 Santa Clara County schools with Bullying Prevention Toolkits that provide student leadership, mentoring, wellness resources, educator support, and workforce opportunities. They are seeking businesses, community groups, and volunteers to sponsor, mentor, or champion a school. Help create safer schools and brighter futures. Please contact Winston Ashby at partiusa@gmail.com for more information on how to get involved, or learn more here: www.partiprogram.com.

 

CHECK OUT PENINSULA OPEN SPACE TRUST’S BEST PLACES TO HIKE & WALK IN SAN JOSE

San José is full of scenic places to explore, from quiet trails near iconic peaks and oak-studded hillsides to paved routes that wind through busy neighborhoods. With hundreds of miles of trails throughout the region, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get outside. But with so many options, local knowledge can make all the difference. Check out the Peninsula Open Space Trust’s recent publication on South Bay Parks & Preserves here!

 

ATTEND CALIFORNIA  STATE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION’S TAXPAYERS’ BILL OF RIGHTS HEARING

The California State Board of Equalization will be hosting its 2026 Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights Hearing on August 26. The Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights Hearing is an opportunity to share feedback, ask questions, and raise concerns about California's property tax system and the Alcoholic Beverage Tax directly to the elected Members of the State Board of Equalization.

The Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights Hearing webpage has been updated with details on how to attend and participate in the 2026 hearing, including an online comment form. 

 

APPLY FOR THE CALASSIST MORTGAGE FUND

The state's CalAssist Mortgage Fund provides much-needed relief from mortgage payments for families whose homes are destroyed or severely damaged to the point they have been deemed uninhabitable as the result of a qualified disaster.  Eligible homeowners can qualify for 3 months of mortgage payments, up to a maximum of $20,000. Funds never have to be repaid and it’s free to apply. Learn more about the program and apply here. 

 

CALIFORNIA’S CALRX® INSULIN IS AVAILABLE TO CALIFORNIA CONSUMERS!

Following the Governor’s Executive Order N-01-19 and Senate Bill 852 (Chapter 207, Statutes of 2020), we are pleased to announce that CalRx^® Insulin Glargine pens are now available to Californians at a maximum recommended price of $55 per five-pack of pens. This milestone significantly expands access to this lifesaving insulin medication at an affordable price, supporting efforts to combat diabetes across California. This CalRx^® insulin product is interchangeable with Lantus^® and will be available to any pharmacy in the state. You can find more information about the Insulin Initiative here.

 

STATE TREASURER'S OFFICE’S SAVINGS PROGRAM FOR INDIVIDUALS

The State Treasurer’s Office's Savings Programs for Individuals (SP4I) offer free tools to build financial security across life stages. These are free, life-changing resources, and many families are unaware they are eligible and have free money waiting for them. Check out the following programs: 

• CalKIDS: Savings account with funds for public school students and newborns - over two billion dollars available today!
• CalSavers: Retirement accounts for workers without employer plans
  • For employers with 1-4 employees, be sure to register by December 31^st, 2025!
• CalABLE: Tax-free savings for people with disabilities

 

JOIN THE CALIFORNIA SERVICE CORPS

Governor’s Office of Service and Community Engagement (GO-Serve) Director Josh Fryday announced California is seeking people to join the California Service Corps. California Service Corps programs offer participants meaningful work experience while making a real impact in their communities — while reducing the burden of college debt.

The California Service Corps is the largest service force in the nation, consisting of four paid service programs: #CaliforniansForAll College Corps, California Climate Action Corps, Youth Service Corps, and AmeriCorps California.

Learn more and join at http://www.CAServiceCorps.com. *Please note that recent federal funding cuts to this program may limit capacity.