Hi friends,
As I return from Spring Recess and jump back into legislative work, I'm embracing the renewed energy this season brings with its longer days and warmer weather!
While busy, I had a remarkably rewarding past month, filled with opportunities to connect, listen, and learn. This month will be similar for me, as my team and I continue working on our legislative proposals, event programming, and constituent services.
April marks Earthquake Preparedness Month, and just this past week, a magnitude 4.6 earthquake jolted Boulder Creek and surrounding areas -- let's use this moderate earthquake as a shake-up call to get prepared for the unexpected. Sign up for early warnings through the MyShake app, and for more localized emergency alerts, register for Santa Cruz County's CruzAware or Santa Clara County's AlertSCC. Work with your families and loved ones to practice protective actions (Drop, Cover, Hold On!) and make a preparedness plan.
In the spirit of preparedness, I'm excited to share that I've been working with the City of Scotts Valley and Fire Safe of Santa Cruz County to provide a Home Hardening & Wildfire Preparedness Community Event on Thursday, April 30. Just a few days before then, on April 25, I will team up with Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga to host a Youth Mental Health Town Hall at Bret Harte Middle School in San José. Keep reading to hear more details about each of these programs.
Legislative Update
Many of us, if not all, were deeply shaken by the painful truths shared by Dolores Huerta, Ana Murguia, Debra Rojas, Esmeralda Lopez, and other women who bravely came forward about their traumatic experiences with Cesar Chavez. While the revelations were profoundly disappointing, I was inspired by the tremendous courage these women demonstrated and the immediate support they received from the United Farm Workers, our State Legislature, and communities across California.
With overwhelmingly bipartisan support, California designated March 31 as Farmworkers Day with the passage of AB 2156 (Rivas and Limón). This day has always been about more than any one individual. It is about honoring the dignity, sacrifice, and essential contributions of farm workers across California.
10 Years of Gun Violence Prevention
Ten years ago, our state enacted the nation-leading Gun Violence Restraining Order law, commonly referred to as the Red Flag Law, providing a critical tool for families and law enforcement to prevent death by firearms when someone poses a danger to themselves or others. While California's mass shooting death rate remains well below the national average, we can recognize the progress while also recognizing the need to keep doing more. I was proud to stand alongside my colleagues in the Gun Violence Prevention Group as they announced our 2026 priority bills. I remain committed to advancing common-sense policies that protect our communities and prevent the trauma of gun violence.
AB 1919 Passes Assembly Elections Committee
I am proud to work with Santa Cruz Metro, SMART TD, and my joint author, Assemblymember Dawn Addis, to provide Santa Cruz Metro the election authority needed to bring a citizen initiative directly to voters, giving our community the agency to make the decisions that affect them. The bill has passed the Elections Committee and is now moving to the Assembly Local Government Committee. You can track the status of each of my 2026 bills by clicking on the links on my website.
Council of Land Trusts Legislative Champion
For the last three years, I worked alongside my Legislative Director, Charmaine, to pass legislation to allow Sempervirens to transfer lands to State Parks for ongoing stewardship. Last year, AB 679 was successfully signed into law removing bureaucratic hurdles and accelerating the approval process for property acquisitions in Big Basin Redwoods, Año Nuevo, and Butano State Parks to support recovery after the CZU Complex Lightning Fire. I'm deeply honored to share that the California Council of Land Trusts (CCLT) named me a 2026 Legislative Champion for this work. This bill would not be law today without Charmaine's dedication and hard work, and I couldn't accept the honor without sharing it with her.
Upcoming Events
The Power of One: A Celebration of Earth Day at UC Santa Cruz
š Merrill Cultural Center, Santa Cruz | Friday, April 17 | š 5PM - 7PM
In honor of Earth Day, UC Santa Cruz is hosting a free screening of The Power of One, followed by a panel discussion with filmmakers Alex Valdez and Pablo De la Fuente. The conversation will explore how storytelling and individual action can advance ecological justice and environmental sustainability. The program continues Saturday with an optional habitat enhancement project along the San Lorenzo River in partnership with the Coastal Watershed Council, as well as opportunities to participate in downtown Santa Cruz Earth Day festivities!
Youth Mental Health Townhall
š 7050 Bret Harte Dr, San José | Saturday, April 25 | š 10 - 11:30AM
Youth mental health is one of the most pressing challenges facing our community today. I'm looking forward to partnering with Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe Koga to provide a Youth Mental Health Townhall. Join us to hear from a panel of professionals and advocates about the challenges affecting young people and learn how we can take meaningful action together.
Spring Into Green
š Town Plaza Park, Los Gatos | Sunday, April 26 | š 10AM - 2PM
My office is looking forward to tabling at Los Gatos' Spring into Green to celebrate Keep Los Gatos Beautiful Month, environmental sustainability, and Earth Day! The festivities include a State of the Town with Mayor Rob Moore, environmentally focused exhibitor booths, a tree planting ceremony, the weekly Los Gatos Farmer's Market, family-friendly activities, live music, and more!
Home Hardening & Wildfire Preparedness Community Event
š 251 B Kings Village Rd., Scotts Valley | Thursday, April 30 | š 6 - 8:30PM
Later this month, I will be in Scotts Valley to help host a family-friendly event featuring informative presentations by dedicated professionals on how to harden your home and prepare for wildfires in Santa Cruz County. There will also be engaging fire safety and preparedness activities for kids. Join us to hear experts from the Fire Safe Council of Santa Cruz County, CAL FIRE, Central Fire District of Santa Cruz County, Scotts Valley Fire District, Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County, Scotts Valley Police Department, and United Policyholders discuss how we can protect our communities.
Past Events
Women of the Year
Each year, one of the most meaningful highlights for me is recognizing the outstanding, district-nominated women driving positive impact in our communities. I was delighted to host this year's honoree luncheon in Santa Cruz, with every detail of the event supported by amazing, entrepreneurial women. The outpouring pride of our honorees' families, friends, and supporters served as a powerful reminder of the importance of making room for appreciation, joy, and celebration. I'm grateful that we were able to capture this year's event in a highlight video. Nominations for Assembly District 28 Women of the Year are open year-round. If you have someone in mind for our 2027 honoree group, please let me know by nominating her!
NUMU Tour
I had an amazing, overdue visit to the New Museum of Los Gatos (NUMU) to present them with a State Resolution recognizing their 60-year anniversary. The museum is truly a gem, and a result of resident advocacy to prioritize spaces for art and history in our community.
NUMU hosts incredible exhibitions throughout the year, including its annual ArtNow exhibition, which recently opened! I appreciate Executive Director Kimberly Snyder and Board President Julie Micallef for taking the time to give me a tour and share details about the featured local artists.
Museums need our support for art now more than ever. Next time you're wondering how to spend your free afternoon, consider visiting your local art museum!
Santa Clara County School Boards Association Legislative Brunch
I was grateful for the opportunity to join my colleague, Assemblymember Marc Berman, at the Santa Clara County School Boards Association Legislative Brunch to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing California's educational infrastructure. The school board trustees in attendance asked great questions and shared incredibly insightful perspectives. It's reassuring to know our students have such dedicated advocates working on their behalf.
Resources & Updates
Trump's Attacks on our Shores - Act Now!
The Trump Administration's assault on our California coast continues. One proposal I flagged last month remains open: BOEM-2025-0120, which would fast-track leasing for deep-sea mineral extraction. The comment period closes April 27, 2026. There are only 179 comments at this moment. Don't wait to make your stance heard; submit your opposition before the deadline:
Coyote Valley Discovery Days
Join the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority for Coyote Valley Discovery Days! Now through May, you are invited to a season of fun, family friendly events that celebrate wildlife, sustainable agriculture, and the future of more than 1,600 acres of protected open space. Some programs take you right into the heart of Coyote Valley, while others pop up at community centers and neighborhood events across San José and Morgan Hill, making it easy for everyone to join in. Each event is designed to spark curiosity, share the stories of this unique landscape, and invite community members to help shape the future of Coyote Valley.
Santa Clara County "I Voted" Sticker Contest
Students, here's your chance to make your mark, literally! The Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters is launching its first-ever "I Voted" sticker contest, and students in grades K-8, 9-12, and college or trade schools are invited to submit their original designs. Winning stickers will be printed and shared with voters during the upcoming general election. It's a fun and creative way for students to get involved in civic education and celebrate the power of voting. Submissions are due by April 30, 2026. For official rules and guidelines, visit sccvote.org/sticker.
San José Spotlight Expands to South County
Local nonprofit newsroom San José Spotlight is expanding its coverage to South Santa Clara County, including Morgan Hill, Gilroy, and San Martin. As they grow, they are seeking community input to better understand the region's news and information needs. Community members are encouraged to complete their brief survey to help shape future coverage and how stories are delivered.
#WeCreate408
As part of California Arts, Creativity, and Culture Month in April, the San José Office of Cultural Affairs is challenging San Joséans to use their creative powers.
In collaboration with local artists, creative businesses, and arts organizations, creative challenges will be sent out each week in April to inspire your creativity. Throughout April, you will get a chance to participate in the themed weeks: Play, San José Love, Nurture, and Nature. These weekly prompts include creative actions you can do on your own, as well as links to events and activities in San José that day.
Sign up to receive weekly prompts by email and share your responses on social media using #WeCreate408. Respond to creative actions with their partners and receive special giveaways and discounts. Details - https://bit.ly/WeCreate408enews
Santa Cruz Neighborhood Sustainability & Resiliency Workshops
The City of Santa Cruz is partnering with Ecology Action to offer Neighborhood Sustainability and Resiliency Workshops for residents throughout 2026. These interactive workshops are designed to strengthen neighborhood connections and build confidence, preparedness, and resilience in the face of climate-related disasters. Participants will also learn about local resources that support sustainable, climate-smart habits. Workshops are flexible and can be tailored for small gatherings or larger community events.
If you're interested in hosting or participating, I encourage you to complete the interest form and get involved. Building resilient communities starts right in our own neighborhoods.
California Grants Portal
As funding becomes more limited, I want to make sure our community is aware of the California Grants Portal, a single destination for all grants and loans offered by California state agencies on a competitive or first-come basis. Opportunities can be searched by category, eligible applicant, and agency, making it easier for nonprofits, schools, small businesses, and local governments to find funding that fits their needs. I encourage you to explore the portal, bookmark it, and share it with partners who may be seeking support. Access to opportunity matters, especially during tight budgets.
Help with Your Electricity Bill - Santa Cruz County
If rising energy costs are creating stress for you or your family, support is available. Central Coast Community Energy (3CE) customers in Santa Cruz County may qualify for electricity bill assistance programs, including CARE and FERA discounts, Medical Baseline support, and flexible payment plan options. Additional resources such as LIHEAP and 2-1-1 can also connect residents with one-time bill assistance and other essential services.
Constituent Services
As your elected representative, I'm here to serve you in a variety of ways. One of the most important is helping you navigate issues with state agencies.
Whether it's the DMV, Franchise Tax Board, EDD, Disability Insurance, or another state department-we're here to help. Contact my office through my website or by calling:
š San José District Office: (408) 264-2848
š Santa Cruz District Office: (831) 425-1503
You can also visit our offices--just call ahead to make an appointment so staff are ready to assist.
District Offices:
701 Ocean Street
Room 318B
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Tel: (831) 425-1503
3150 Almaden Expressway
Suite 252
San José, CA 95118
Tel: (408) 264-2848
Satellite Office:
17555 Peak Avenue
Suite 100
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Please don't hesitate to reach out. My team is ready to support you however we can.
Warm regards,
Gail Pellerin
Assemblymember, District 28
