Focusing on Key Priorities

Since December, I have had the honor of representing the west side of San Francisco and northern San Mateo County in the California Assembly.

As I step into this role, I remain deeply committed to addressing the issues that matter most to our communities. That’s why I am excited to share details about my first legislative efforts – bills designed to make our neighborhoods safer, healthier and more affordable. None of this would be possible without you, the voters who placed your trust in me to lead and advocate on your behalf.

This year, my legislative package focuses on key priorities: improving public safety, strengthening consumer protections, expanding access to health care and ensuring economic fairness. From protecting victims of crime and preventing financial fraud against seniors, to ensuring fair business practices and strengthening gun safety measures, each bill reflects a commitment to creating a stronger, more just California. Below are a few of the proposals I will be championing in Sacramento:

Restitution First Act: AB-1213

Victims of crime shouldn’t have to wait in line for restitution. This bill ensures that restitution takes priority over all other financial obligations, guaranteeing that victims receive what they are owed. I am proud to partner with San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins on this initiative, which was inspired by incarcerated individuals who recognized that this measure would not only help victims but also support their own successful reentry into society. This bill reinforces our commitment to putting survivors first and ensuring they receive the justice and support they deserve.

Firearm Procurement Act: AB-458

Each year, California spends millions of taxpayer dollars on firearms, ammunition and accessories for law enforcement agencies. Yet, the state currently lacks a vetting process to ensure firearm vendors comply with local, state and federal laws. Research shows that guns used in crimes often originate from dealers who violate these laws. By leveraging California’s significant purchasing power, this bill will establish rigorous vetting processes for firearm vendors, ensuring that public funds never go to dealers who disregard gun safety laws – ultimately keeping our communities safer from gun violence.

California Restaurant Reservation Anti-Piracy Act: AB-1245

Restaurant reservation systems should be fair and transparent for both consumers and small businesses, especially in a city with a dining scene as vibrant as San Francisco’s. This bill will put an end to the predatory practice of reservation scalping, ensuring that small business owners can focus on what truly matters – serving their loyal customers, creating jobs and driving our city’s economic recovery.

Seniors Financial Abuse Training Act: AB-871

California is home to more than nine million adults over the age of 60, and each year, millions of seniors fall victim to fraud and financial scams. To combat this growing problem, this bill will require financial institutions to strengthen staff training and reporting practices, equipping employees with the tools needed to proactively prevent fraud. With more than one-third of all reports to California’s County Adult Protective Services agencies involving financial abuse, the time to act is now to protect those in our community who are most at risk.

Human Trafficking Procurement Prevention Act: AB-381

California has the power and responsibility to lead the fight against human trafficking. Our state spends nearly $19 billion on procurement, yet our anti-human-trafficking policies have not been updated since 2007. With major international events – including the World Cup, Super Bowl and Olympics – coming to California in the years ahead, now is the time to update these policies to align with the most current best practices in preventing forced labor and human trafficking in state contracts. By ensuring that no taxpayer money contributes to forced labor, we can take a meaningful stand for human dignity and justice.

These are just a few of the bills I am championing this legislative session, all with the shared goal of creating a safer, healthier and more affordable California. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature and engaging with residents from every corner of our district to turn these proposals into law, ensuring that our state remains a beacon of safety, fairness and opportunity for all.

P.S.: My office is here to serve you. If you need assistance with a state agency, have an idea for a future law or want to raise a concern about an issue in your neighborhood, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at 415-557-2312 or Assemblymember.Stefani@Assembly.ca.gov.

Assemblymember Catherine Stefani represents California’s 19th Assembly District, which includes the west side of San Francisco and northern San Mateo County.