During this past legislative session, my team and I worked to put together a legislative package addressing a variety of important issues, including public safety, government transparency, consumer protection, Veteran benefits, and local district concerns.
Now that the 2025 session has ended, I am proud to share this final legislative update from my office.
6 Seyarto Bills Signed Into Law:
SB 67 ensures that dependents of California’s active-duty military members can access Cal Grants even if they graduated from a high school outside of California due to a parent’s military assignment.
SB 78 directs the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature by January 1, 2027, identifying roadway safety improvements, causes of project delays, and strategies to deliver projects more efficiently.
SB 87 extends a sales tax exemption for all-volunteer fire departments’ income from fundraising activities.
SB 233 strengthens coordination between state and local governments in planning for future housing needs, directing the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) to meet with Councils of Governments (COGs) at least 38 months before a scheduled revision of a region’s housing plan.
SB 255 establishes a statewide record notification program requiring counties to alert property owners whenever a deed, mortgage, or similar ownership document is recorded. This protects homeowners and buyers from fraud, which has become easier to carry out with the use of electronic signatures.
SB 385 repeals a mandate that restricted the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), giving the commission greater flexibility to consider education requirements that fit the needs of law enforcement training.
1 Seyarto Bill Vetoed:
SB 76 would have protected consumers purchasing used vehicles by ensuring that unpaid registration fees remain the responsibility of the previous owner rather than being passed on to the buyer.
Co-Authored Bills Signed Into Law:
SB 31 (McNerney) helps drought-proof California by boosting the use of recycled water while protecting the state’s fresh water supply by allowing businesses, homes, and agencies to expand their use of recycled water for irrigation and other uses, rather than relying on drinking water.
SB 72 (Caballero) requires California to set long-term water supply targets and update the state’s Water Plan every five years to ensure safe, reliable water for cities, farms, and the environment.
SB 221 (Ochoa Bogh) expands the crime of stalking to include threats against a person’s pet, horse, service animal, or emotional support animal.
AB 418 (Wilson) protects property owners’ rights by requiring county boards of supervisors to notify owners of tax-defaulted property at least 45 days before a public hearing to approve the sale.
Honorable mention:
While SB 1, my bill to exempt military retirement and survivor benefits from state income taxes did not advance this year, the Governor ultimately adopted the same proposal in his budget. For the first time, veterans and surviving spouses will be able to exclude up to $20,000 of their retirement or Survivor Benefit Plan income from state taxes each year. This helps retain skilled veterans in California while strengthening local economies and honoring the service of our military families. This policy, which I have introduced every year since taking office, is finally law.
It is my privilege to be your State Senator. As a life-long public servant, I understand the significance of the trust you have placed in me.
Each legislative year brings its own challenges, and many uphill battles remain, but I am proud of the work my office has put in to serve our district and our state. It was my honor to work with my colleagues in Sacramento to accomplish some of our goals and deliver results.
Thank you for this opportunity to be of service.