Governor Newsom Prioritizes Climate, Mental Health, and Education with the Signing of Senator Henry Stern's 8 Bills

Los Angeles, CA – Governor Gavin Newsom signed eight significant laws authored by Senator Henry Stern, each addressing critical challenges facing California. 

"From protecting our kids in schools to prioritizing mental health care and preparing Los Angeles for flood emergencies, these new laws will have a significant, positive impact on communities across the state," said Senator Stern. “’I am grateful to my team and Governor Newsom in taking these bills across the finish line. There’s more to come in January, and I look forward to continuing our work for Californians."

SB 1283 – Protecting Students at School
This bill empowers school districts to limit student access to social media during school hours, helping create a safer and more focused learning environment.

SB 1504 – Combating Cyberbullying
Arms parents and administrators with tools to fight back against digital bullies, giving them the resources to address the growing problem of cyberbullying.

SB 1277 – Expanding Holocaust and Genocide Education
A deeply personal bill for Senator Stern, SB 1277 provides teachers with more resources to expand Holocaust and genocide education in classrooms.

SB 1169 – Los Angeles Flood Control District
This will lift the cap on how much the LA Flood Control District can bond for emergencies, ensuring Los Angeles is better equipped to handle future flood disasters.

SB 1400 – Mental Health Prioritization
This bill addresses the jail-to-street pipeline for individuals deemed incompetent to stand trial by prioritizing mental health treatment over incarceration.

SB 1251 – Mosquito Abatement Support
Inspired by his role as a father, Senator Stern’s SB 1251 streamlines the process for mosquito abatement, providing much-needed support for vector control districts, particularly in treating utility vaults.

SB 1136 & SB 1399 – Clarifying Existing Legislation
These bills refine and clarify existing laws, including changing how the California Air Resources Board (CARB) reports to the Climate Change Committee (SB 1136) and protecting transfer fees for Tejon Ranch (SB 1399).