Six-Month Progress Report

It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your assemblymember, representing the west side of San Francisco in the California Legislature.

In my first six months, I have hit the ground running. I introduced 15 pieces of legislation focused on the issues that matter most to our communities: public safety, affordability and public health.

I’m proud to report that several of those bills have already advanced out of committee, and four – AB-627 (Hospital Capital Financing), AB-1085 (Obstructed License Plates), AB-1213 (Restitution First Act) and AB-1297 (Automatic Temporary Restraining Orders) – have passed the full Assembly and are now under consideration in the State Senate.

This progress wouldn’t be possible without the support of my colleagues in the legislature and the many community members who have spoken up at hearings, shared their stories and helped shape these policies. Every bill I introduced reflects a simple commitment: building a safer and more affordable California.

I want to take a moment to spotlight two bills that especially reflect my commitment to public safety.

AB-1085 – Banning Obstructed License Plates

Flipper plates, tinted covers and similar devices are illegal in California, but they’re still widely sold and marketed as tools to avoid tolls, red light cameras and parking enforcement. These devices endanger other drivers and pedestrians, and they cost cities and the state millions in lost revenue every year. AB-1085 cracks down on retailers profiting from this by imposing a $10,000 fine per device sold. If you can’t display your license plate legally, you shouldn’t be on the road.

AB 1363 – Wyland’s Law

This bill is named in memory of 10-year-old Wyland Thomas Gomes, who was killed by his father, despite the existence of a court-issued restraining order that should have prevented him from owning a firearm. The tragedy occurred because the court failed to transmit the order to the Department of Justice. Wyland’s Law ensures protective orders are properly and promptly reported, closing a dangerous loophole and helping to prevent future tragedies.

These bills are part of a broader package of legislation I’ve introduced to address systemic gaps and improve safety across our state. While I’m encouraged by our early momentum, there’s still a long road ahead before any of these measures become law.

As the legislative session continues, I’ll keep pushing for policies that make our neighborhoods safer, more affordable and more resilient. And I’ll continue to spend time back in the district – meeting with neighbors, attending community events and listening to the people I’m proud to represent.

If you need help with a state agency, have an idea for a new law or want to talk about an issue affecting your neighborhood, don’t hesitate to reach out.

My team and I are always here to serve you.

Assemblymember Catherine Stefani represents California’s 19th Assembly District, which includes the west side of San Francisco and northern San Mateo County. She can be reached at 415-557-2312 or Assemblymember.Stefani@assembly.ca.gov.