Creating Change – July 2025

Senator Becker convening new Select Committee on Economic Development and Technological Innovation.

I’ve been named Chair of the newly formed Senate Select Committee on Economic Development and Technological Innovation. The purpose of this committee is to make sure California stays on the cutting edge—whether that’s in advanced manufacturing, tech, or even how government serves the public, and in commercializing and manufacturing here in California. I’ll be convening experts, entrepreneurs, local leaders, and researchers from around the state through hearings, field visits, and roundtables. Together, we’ll explore smarter regulation, better public-private partnerships, and innovative solutions to today’s economic challenges. Stay tuned for more!

I convened a town hall on PG&E’s large increase in energy rates over the last few years impacting our community. Experts in the field discussed how many factors, including our community’s high wildfire risk, are driving up costs and negatively impacting ratepayers. The feedback from this panel and constituents is invaluable in shaping future solutions to utility costs. I have made this a top priority as Chair of the Energy Committee, and that is why I am authoring SB 254 to address the increase in utility rates, as well as SB 540 and SB 541. To watch the full discussion, click here.

Senator Becker joining solar advocates after concluding the Senate Energy Hearing on AB 942.

I ran for office and spent my career at the EPA, on Capitol Hill, and as a clean tech entrepreneur to make California the nation’s leader in clean energy. So when a recent legislative proposal threatened solar home owners, I knew we had to act. I’m proud that, after intensive negotiations, the harmful provisions were removed. California should continue expanding rooftop and community solar, modernizing our grid, and driving urgent climate action—without rolling back the commitments we’ve already made. Watch my message on this bill here.

This session, I have been focused on many priorities to deliver for our district and our state. Addressing wildfire preparedness and insurance access, advancing our clean energy goals, stopping arbitrary health care cuts, and protecting our immigrant communities from ICE. Fourteen bills of mine are advancing through the legislative process. Over the coming months, I’ll continue to lead on policies that lower costs, protect privacy, advance clean energy innovation, and uphold California’s values of fairness and opportunity. Thank you for your ongoing engagement—please continue to share your feedback and ideas as we work together to build a stronger, more equitable California. You can see the full list of bills here.

Senator Becker discussing legislation to protect children against harmful AI chatbots.

This month, I joined my colleagues Senator Steve Padilla and Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson and advocates to push for legislation protecting our children from unsafe AI chatbots. We honored Megan Garcia’s courage and the vital work of the Transparency Coalition, and Common Sense Media in turning personal tragedy into meaningful safeguards. SB 243 strikes the right balance—requiring clear chatbot disclosures, crisis intervention protocols, and annual mental health risk reports for young users. Building on our AI transparency and education laws, this bill ensures innovation serves the public good without compromising child safety.

Senator Becker presenting a certificate to Dolores Huerta.

Our East Palo Alto community celebrated Dolores Huerta’s 95th birthday, honoring her as a fearless labor leader and civil rights icon. As co founder of the United Farm Workers and the voice behind “¡Sí, se puede!,” Dolores has spent more than six decades fighting for fair wages, safe working conditions, educational equity, and immigrant protections. Community leaders, organizers, and longtime allies shared personal stories of her mentorship, her energy, and the way she inspired them to stand up for justice. Even at 95, Dolores remains actively engaged, mentoring new activists and speaking out on today’s pressing issues. Her birthday was both a celebration of past victories and a renewed call to action: “¡Sí, se puede!”

California scores victory for rooftop solar owners, retaining contracts on home sale
(PV Magazine, July 16, 2025)

Hundreds gather at ‘Good Trouble Lives On’ event
(RWC Pulse, July 18, 2025)

Citing risk to kids, California bill targets controversial AI ‘companion’ chatbots
(Statescoop, July 8, 2025)

State AI regulations safe after Senate strips moratorium from ‘big, beautiful bill
(The Markup, July 1, 2025)

Lawmakers Are Celebrating the Senate Stripping an AI Moratorium from Reconciliation
(NOTUS, July 1, 2025)

California Voice: Interim housing could give shelter to thousands more across state  
(Marin Independent Journal, June 30, 2025)
 

If I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact my district office at (650) 233-2724.

Sincerely,
Senator Josh Becker