http://www.senatorsimitian.com/news/index/ en phil.yost@sen.ca.gov Copyright 2010 2010-07-24T18:27:34+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_present_books_inc._with_small_business_of_the_year_award/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_present_books_inc._with_small_business_of_the_year_award/#When:21:51:51Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will present Books Inc. with the 11th Senate District “Small Business of the Year Award” at its Palo Alto store on July 28 at 7 p.m. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2010-07-21T21:51:51+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/citizens_polling_place_proposal_becomes_law/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/citizens_polling_place_proposal_becomes_law/#When:20:10:11Z Legislation to improve the Election Day experience at polling places, which began as an idea presented to State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) by two of his constituents, has been signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger. The bill, Senate Bill 1342, provides more flexibility in designating precincts and polling places. Good Government, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1342: Polling Place Availability 2010-07-16T20:10:11+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_streamlines_environmental_process_preserves_essential_protect/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_streamlines_environmental_process_preserves_essential_protect/#When:17:22:22Z With less than three months to go in the Legislature’s two-year session, State Senator Joe Simtian (D-Palo Alto) has introduced legislation (Senate Bill 1456) to streamline the state’s environmental review process without weakening essential protections. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1456: CEQA Mitigation Measures 2010-07-07T17:22:22+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/33_renewable_energy_bill_passes_first_hurdle/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/33_renewable_energy_bill_passes_first_hurdle/#When:21:37:58Z Legislation authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) to require private and public utilities to obtain 33% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2020 passed the Assembly Utilities and Commerce Committee today. Senate Bill 722, passed 9-2, would raise the renewable target from 20%, while providing the flexibility necessary to meet the higher standard. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 722: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2010-06-24T21:37:58+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_boost_kids_health_insurance_passes_senate/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_boost_kids_health_insurance_passes_senate/#When:17:40:25Z The California State Senate has passed legislation, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), to help county governments cover the growing number of California children who lack health insurance. Miscellaneous, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1431: Children's Health Care Access 2010-06-09T17:40:25+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_outlaw_online_impersonation/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_outlaw_online_impersonation/#When:18:33:48Z The California State Senate took a step last week toward protecting victims of online impersonation by passing Senate Bill 1411, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), which would make it a misdemeanor to maliciously impersonate another person online. Privacy, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1411: Online Impersonation 2010-06-08T18:33:48+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/fastrak_privacy_bill_passes_state_senate/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/fastrak_privacy_bill_passes_state_senate/#When:21:06:10Z Legislation authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) to protect the privacy of drivers using the FasTrak payment system for toll bridges and roads passed the State Senate last week. Privacy, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1268: Electronic Toll Collection Privacy 2010-06-07T21:06:10+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_ban_carpool_fees_passes_senate/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_ban_carpool_fees_passes_senate/#When:17:46:44Z This week the California State Senate voted to approve State Senator Joe Simitian’s (D-Palo Alto) Senate Bill 1245. The bill would prohibit transit agencies from charging carpoolers for the use of high-occupancy traffic lanes. Good Government, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1245: Free Carpool Lanes 2010-06-04T17:46:44+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_strengthen_hands-free_and_texting_law/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_strengthen_hands-free_and_texting_law/#When:22:47:47Z Today the California State Senate passed State Senator Joe Simitian’s (D-Palo Alto) Senate Bill 1475 by a vote of 21-16. The bill would strengthen California’s hands-free and no-texting laws for motorists. SB 1475 now moves to the State Assembly for consideration. Public Safety, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1475: Cell Phones and Texting While Driving 2010-06-03T22:47:47+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/kindergarten_readiness_bill_passes_state_senate/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/kindergarten_readiness_bill_passes_state_senate/#When:17:23:58Z Today the State Senate approved legislation by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) to change the minimum age for children entering kindergarten. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1381: Kindergarten Age 2010-06-02T17:23:58+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/pension_reform_bill_to_curb_pension_spiking_clears_state_senate/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/pension_reform_bill_to_curb_pension_spiking_clears_state_senate/#When:00:33:16Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that his Senate Bill 1425, which aims to curtail the problem of pension spiking in California, was approved by the State Senate by a vote of 34-0. Good Government, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1425: Pension Spiking 2010-06-02T00:33:16+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/red_light_camera_reform_bill_passes_senate/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/red_light_camera_reform_bill_passes_senate/#When:22:42:57Z Today the State Senate passed Senate Bill 1362, by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), to protect drivers by regulating the use of “red light” cameras. Good Government, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1362: Red Light Cameras 2010-06-01T22:42:57+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bills_aim_to_protect_drivers_rights_tolls_privacy_and_due_process_/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bills_aim_to_protect_drivers_rights_tolls_privacy_and_due_process_/#When:17:44:21Z To ensure that drivers’ rights are respected as traffic control and enforcement technologies evolve, State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he has introduced a trio of transportation bills that protect motorists. Privacy, Good Government, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1245: Free Carpool Lanes, SB 1268: Electronic Toll Collection Privacy, SB 1362: Red Light Cameras 2010-05-28T17:44:21+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_at_local_farmers_markets/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_at_local_farmers_markets/#When:16:52:34Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold “sidewalk office hours” in six local communities in June. Simitian invites community members to visit and voice their questions and concerns about state legislative issues. Press Releases 2010-05-26T16:52:34+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/books_inc._named_11th_senate_district_small_business_of_the_year/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/books_inc._named_11th_senate_district_small_business_of_the_year/#When:17:18:10Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today his selection of Books Inc. as the 11th State Senate District Small Business of the Year. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2010-05-18T17:18:10+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_invites_constituents_to_santa_cruz_open_house_and_ice_cream_social/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_invites_constituents_to_santa_cruz_open_house_and_ice_cream_social/#When:17:36:36Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold his sixth annual Ice Cream Social and Open House on Thursday, May 27, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at his office in Santa Cruz. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2010-05-12T17:36:36+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/judy_chirco_to_be_honored_at_san_jose_celebration/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/judy_chirco_to_be_honored_at_san_jose_celebration/#When:18:08:55Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will host a community celebration to honor San Jose Vice Mayor Judy Chirco, the 11th State Senate District’s Woman of the Year, in San Jose on May 6. Simitian selected Chirco for the award to recognize her decades of community service and leadership. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2010-04-28T18:08:55+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/consumer_privacy_protection_bill_passed_by_state_senate/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/consumer_privacy_protection_bill_passed_by_state_senate/#When:18:12:49Z The California State Senate voted Thursday to approve Senate Bill 1166 by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). Senate Bill 1166 would strengthen and improve the state’s existing security breach notification requirements. Privacy, Consumer Protection, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1166: Data Breach Notification 2010-04-16T18:12:49+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_receives_crime_fighter_award/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_receives_crime_fighter_award/#When:21:39:10Z Fight Crime: Invest in Kids California has named State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) as the recipient of its 2010 Crime Fighter Award. Simitian was singled out for his legislation to benefit youth and public safety. Education, Public Safety, Press Releases 2010-04-15T21:39:10+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_introduces_kindergarten_readiness_bill/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_introduces_kindergarten_readiness_bill/#When:18:07:39Z Today State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced legislation to change the minimum age for children entering kindergarten. The proposal, supported by policy experts and education advocates, would boost kindergarten readiness and save an estimated $700 million annually, totaling $9.1 billion over a 13 year period. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1381: Kindergarten Age 2010-04-12T18:07:39+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/community_groups_to_host_back-to-back_screenings_of_local_documentary_100_a/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/community_groups_to_host_back-to-back_screenings_of_local_documentary_100_a/#When:20:00:23Z The award-winning local documentary $100 a Day will be screened at back-to-back community events this month: at Stanford Law School on April 21st and at the Santa Cruz Police Department on April 22nd. Both screenings are free and open to the public. Press Releases 2010-04-05T20:00:23+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senator_simitian_announces_2009-10_oughta_be_a_law_contest_winners/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senator_simitian_announces_2009-10_oughta_be_a_law_contest_winners/#When:16:50:06Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) has announced three winners of this year’s “There Oughta Be A Law” contest. Since 2001, Simitian has invited Californians to submit suggestions for new legislation. To date, fifteen winning ideas have been signed into law. This year, his office received 426 proposals from residents throughout his district and across the state. Public Safety, Miscellaneous, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1342: Polling Place Availability, SB 1362: Red Light Cameras 2010-03-29T16:50:06+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/pension_spiking_bill_aims_to_curb_abuse/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/pension_spiking_bill_aims_to_curb_abuse/#When:18:32:50Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) has introduced Senate Bill 1425 which aims to curtail the problem of pension spiking in California. Pension spiking is a term used when an employee boosts their final salary before retirement by cashing out on vacation time or administrative leave, among other things, in order to get a higher payout. Good Government, Miscellaneous, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1425: Pension Spiking 2010-03-11T18:32:50+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_report_card_to_evaluate_drug_sharps_manufacturers_released/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_report_card_to_evaluate_drug_sharps_manufacturers_released/#When:21:32:34Z Wednesday State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will join representatives of the National MS Society, the Diabetes Coalition of California, the California Conference of Environmental Health Directors and other consumer health organizations to present criteria that will be used to evaluate safe needle disposal plans prepared by drug manufacturers. The criteria come on the heels of Simitian’s Senate Bill 486, which was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger last fall. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 486: Medical Sharps Disposal 2010-03-09T21:32:34+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/san_jose_vice_mayor_judy_chirco_named_11th_senate_district_woman_of_the_yea/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/san_jose_vice_mayor_judy_chirco_named_11th_senate_district_woman_of_the_yea/#When:20:17:35Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today his selection of San Jose Vice Mayor Judy Chirco as the 11th State Senate District’s Woman of the Year. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2010-03-08T20:17:35+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_reintroduces_33_renewable_energy_bill/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_reintroduces_33_renewable_energy_bill/#When:20:27:36Z Today State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) reintroduced legislation that requires all energy providers to buy 33 percent of their energy from clean, renewable energy sources by 2020. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 722: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2010-03-04T20:27:36+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/national_ms_society_names_simitian_legislator_of_the_year/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/national_ms_society_names_simitian_legislator_of_the_year/#When:18:21:36Z The National Multiple Sclerosis Society has named State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) their California Legislator of the Year. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 486: Medical Sharps Disposal 2010-02-25T18:21:36+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_legislation_to_strengthen_hands-free_texting_laws/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_legislation_to_strengthen_hands-free_texting_laws/#When:17:08:02Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today the introduction of Senate Bill 1475 which strengthens the state’s hands-free and anti-texting laws for motorists. Public Safety, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1475: Cell Phones and Texting While Driving, 2007-2008 Legislation, SB 28: Texting while Driving Prohibition, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 1613: Hands-free Cellphones, 2003-2004 Legislation, AB 45: Hands-Free Cell Phones, 2001-2002 Legislation, AB 1911: Hands-Free Cell Phone Requirement for CA Drivers 2010-02-22T17:08:02+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/highway_deaths_and_crashes_drop_in_first_year_of_hands-free_cell_phone_law/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/highway_deaths_and_crashes_drop_in_first_year_of_hands-free_cell_phone_law/#When:19:01:48Z Recently released collision and fatality data from the California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirms that California’s streets and highways are safer following the implementation of California’s “hands-free” cell phone law. Public Safety, Press Releases, 2007-2008 Legislation, SB 28: Texting while Driving Prohibition, SB 33: Teen Driver Cell Phone Safety, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 1613: Hands-free Cellphones 2010-02-17T19:01:48+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honored_with_distinguished_leadership_award/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honored_with_distinguished_leadership_award/#When:23:59:35Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) was recognized today with a 2009 distinguished leadership award by the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA). The organization recognized Simitian for his work in the legislature dating back to 2001, when he became one of the first legislators to pass design-build laws for public agencies, focusing on K-12 school districts. Education, Environment, Miscellaneous, Press Releases, 2007-2008 Legislation, SB 614: Design-build contracts for public education, 2001-2002 Legislation, AB 1000: Design/Build for Community College Districts 2010-02-01T23:59:35+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_education_update_meeting_with_state_senator_joe_simitian/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_education_update_meeting_with_state_senator_joe_simitian/#When:18:09:13Z Simitian, a member of the Senate Education Committee, will provide an in-depth update on K-12 education funding, “Race to the Top”, and legislation pending in Sacramento. Education, Press Releases 2010-01-21T18:09:13+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_state_senate_informational_hearing_on_high-speed_rail/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_state_senate_informational_hearing_on_high-speed_rail/#When:17:36:03Z Thursday, January 21st, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2010-01-20T17:36:03+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/consumer_rights_groups_give_simitian_100_score/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/consumer_rights_groups_give_simitian_100_score/#When:22:11:42Z The Consumer Federation of California and the California Public Interest Research Group (CALPIRG), two statewide consumer rights organizations, have recognized State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) for his 2009 voting record. Both organizations gave Simitian 100% scores on their annual legislative scorecards. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 20: Security Breach Notification Improvements 2010-01-15T22:11:42+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_host_informational_hearing_on_high-speed_rail/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_host_informational_hearing_on_high-speed_rail/#When:20:10:27Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold a public informational hearing on California’s high-speed rail project on Thursday, January 21st at Palo Alto City Hall. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2010-01-12T20:10:27+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_simitian_school_accountability_bill/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_simitian_school_accountability_bill/#When:22:27:28Z Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill (SB) 2 (in the 5th Extraordinary Session), authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). Senate Bill X5 2 expands and improves public access to California’s student performance data (CALPADS). The bill passed during a special session focused on enacting legislation to qualify California to compete for up to $700 million in federal “Race to the Top” funding. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SBX5 2: Education Data Access 2010-01-08T22:27:28+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_education_update_--_focus_on_governors_budget_proposal_and/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_education_update_--_focus_on_governors_budget_proposal_and/#When:22:39:09Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold an “Education Update” meeting on Saturday, January 23rd in Palo Alto for school board members, superintendents, teachers, parents, and other education advocates. Education, Press Releases 2010-01-07T22:39:09+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_boost_school_accountability_heads_to_governors_desk/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_boost_school_accountability_heads_to_governors_desk/#When:19:18:12Z The State Legislature approved Senate Bill (SB) X5 2, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). The legislation, passed Thursday in a special session focused on education reform, would expand and improve public access to California’s student performance data. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SBX5 2: Education Data Access 2009-12-18T19:18:12+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_receives_top_marks_from_environmental_and_senior_groups/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_receives_top_marks_from_environmental_and_senior_groups/#When:21:03:21Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) has received top marks from state environmental and senior groups for his voting record this year. Environment, Elder Protection, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 14: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2009-12-15T21:03:21+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_delta_protection_and_water_supply_bill_signed_by_governor/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_delta_protection_and_water_supply_bill_signed_by_governor/#When:19:15:28Z Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today signed legislation by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), which aims to restore the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and ensure an adequate supply of water for California in the years ahead. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 12: Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Act of 2009, SBX7 1: Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Reform Act of 2009 2009-11-12T19:15:28+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_hearing_scheduled_to_discuss_safety_concerns_of_the_san_francisco-oa/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_hearing_scheduled_to_discuss_safety_concerns_of_the_san_francisco-oa/#When:00:39:52Z The hearing will be held in collaboration with the Senate Select Committee on Bay Area Transportation, Chaired by Senator Mark Leno, (D-San Francisco) and the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee’s sub-committee on Caltrans’ budget, headed by Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). Public Safety, Press Releases 2009-11-06T00:39:52+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_delta_water_bill_approved_by_legislature_goes_to_governor_for_sign/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_delta_water_bill_approved_by_legislature_goes_to_governor_for_sign/#When:15:58:07Z SACRAMENTO - The California State Legislature has approved a package of legislation which aims to restore the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and ensure an adequate supply of water for California in the years ahead. A key element of the package is Senate Bill 1 (in the Seventh Extraordinary Session), authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D- Palo Alto). Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D- Sacramento) is a joint author. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 12: Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Act of 2009, SBX7 1: Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Reform Act of 2009, 2007-2008 Legislation, SB 27: Delta Water Project 2009-11-04T15:58:07+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_extends_there_oughta_be_a_law_contest_deadline/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_extends_there_oughta_be_a_law_contest_deadline/#When:17:33:35Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will extend the deadline for his ninth annual "There Oughta Be A Law" contest, which invites Californians to submit ideas for new state legislation. The new deadline is Sunday, November 15, 2009. Miscellaneous, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases 2009-10-27T17:33:35+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/reminder_to_drivers_to_keep_wipers_on_lights_on_in_storm/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/reminder_to_drivers_to_keep_wipers_on_lights_on_in_storm/#When:20:40:57Z Sacramento – As the first major storm of the season hits much of California today, State Senator Joe Simitian (D – Palo Alto) joined law enforcement officials in reminding drivers about the importance of keeping “Wipers On, Lights On.” Public Safety, Press Releases, 2003-2004 Legislation, AB 1854: Wipers On, Lights On 2009-10-13T20:40:57+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_sharps_disposal_bill_to_keep_californians_from_getting_stuck/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_sharps_disposal_bill_to_keep_californians_from_getting_stuck/#When:14:55:14Z Sacramento – Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 486, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). The new law – suggested by a constituent in Simitian’s annual “There Oughta Be A Law” contest – will help an estimated one million Californians safely dispose of their “sharps” (a type of medical waste that includes syringes and needles). Consumer Protection, Public Safety, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 486: Medical Sharps Disposal 2009-10-12T14:55:14+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/steinberg_simitian_comment_on_governors_veto_of_renewable_standard_bill/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/steinberg_simitian_comment_on_governors_veto_of_renewable_standard_bill/#When:23:38:22Z Statements of Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) and Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) on Governor Schwarzenegger’s veto of SB 14, Senator Simitian’s bill that would have required all electric utilities to generate a third of their power from renewable resources. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 14: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2009-10-11T23:38:22+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_vetoes_simitians_privacy_protection_upgrade/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_vetoes_simitians_privacy_protection_upgrade/#When:21:53:19Z Today Governor Schwarzenegger vetoed State Senator Joe Simitian's (D-Palo Alto) Senate Bill 20. The bill would have strengthened and updated California's landmark privacy protection law that requires businesses and state agencies to notify residents when sensitive personal information is lost or stolen from their databases. Privacy, Consumer Protection, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 20: Security Breach Notification Improvements 2009-10-11T21:53:19+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_simitians_education_data_bill_ensuring_access_to_federal_fun/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_simitians_education_data_bill_ensuring_access_to_federal_fun/#When:21:51:08Z Today Governor Schwarzenegger signed into law Senate Bill 19, by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), which ensures California’s eligibility to compete for $4.35 billion in federal school funding. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 19: Education Data 2009-10-11T21:51:08+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/steinberg_simitian_call_for_continued_talks_on_an_enforceable_renewable_por/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/steinberg_simitian_call_for_continued_talks_on_an_enforceable_renewable_por/#When:23:33:04Z Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) and Senator Joe Simitian (D- Palo Alto), Chair of the Senate Environmental Quality Committee, sent the Governor the following letter requesting continued productive conversations working toward adopting an enforceable renewable portfolio standard. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 14: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2009-10-09T23:33:04+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_town_hall_meetings_in_campbell_and_willow_glen/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_town_hall_meetings_in_campbell_and_willow_glen/#When:17:03:03Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold town hall meetings in Campbell on October 14th and in San Jose’s Willow Glen neighborhood on October 15th to talk with community members about state government issues. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2009-10-05T17:03:03+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_simitian_to_participate_in_d.c._summit_on_distracted_driving/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_simitian_to_participate_in_d.c._summit_on_distracted_driving/#When:21:36:11Z Sacramento – State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will be participating in U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood’s Distracted Driving Summit this week in Washington, D.C. The Department of Transportation has invited 200 participants from around the country to determine the best ways to reduce the number of crashes and deaths due to distracted driving. Public Safety, Miscellaneous, Press Releases, 2007-2008 Legislation, SB 28: Texting while Driving Prohibition, SB 33: Teen Driver Cell Phone Safety, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 681: Hands Free Cell Phones 2009-09-29T21:36:11+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_simitian_to_meet_with_u.s._department_of_education_officials/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_simitian_to_meet_with_u.s._department_of_education_officials/#When:16:45:12Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) is set to meet with top U.S. Department of Education officials in Washington, D.C. Tuesday regarding California’s “Race to the Top” eligibility; and specifically his legislation, Senate Bill 19, which is on its way to the Governor’s desk for a signature. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 19: Education Data 2009-09-28T16:45:12+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_launches_ninth_annual_there_oughta_be_a_law_contest/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_launches_ninth_annual_there_oughta_be_a_law_contest/#When:00:02:39Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) kicked off his ninth annual “There Oughta Be A Law” contest today. The contest invites Californians to submit ideas for state legislation. Good Government, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 486: Medical Sharps Disposal 2009-09-23T00:02:39+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_environmentalists_and_utilities_call_on_governor_to_sign_33_/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_environmentalists_and_utilities_call_on_governor_to_sign_33_/#When:00:43:29Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) and supporters of his legislation, Senate Bill 14, called on the Governor today to reconsider threats of a possible veto. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 14: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2009-09-15T00:43:29+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_simitian_to_hold_conference_call_on_renewable_energy_bill/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_simitian_to_hold_conference_call_on_renewable_energy_bill/#When:18:19:21Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will hold a conference call with members of the media to discuss SB 14, his bill to require all electric utilities in California to generate one third of their power from renewable sources by 2020. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 14: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2009-09-14T18:19:21+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/33_renewable_energy_bill_approved_by_legislature_on_its_way_to_governor/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/33_renewable_energy_bill_approved_by_legislature_on_its_way_to_governor/#When:08:40:32Z Sacramento – Senate Bill 14, which requires all energy providers to buy 33 percent of their energy from clean renewable energy sources by 2020 has been approved by the legislature. The bill, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) now heads to the Governor who has until October 11th to either sign the legislation or veto it. Environment, Miscellaneous, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 14: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2009-09-12T08:40:32+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/school_education_data_bill_ensures_access_to_federal_funds_increases_educat/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/school_education_data_bill_ensures_access_to_federal_funds_increases_educat/#When:02:35:53Z Sacramento- The State Legislature has passed SB 19 by State Senator Joe Simitian, (D-Palo Alto). The measure is designed to put to rest a controversy Simitian describes as “a tempest in a teapot” over California’s eligibility for federal funds for schools. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 19: Education Data 2009-09-12T02:35:53+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_aims_to_keep_californians_from_getting_stuck_bill_on_sharps_dispos/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_aims_to_keep_californians_from_getting_stuck_bill_on_sharps_dispos/#When:21:18:30Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that his bill, SB 486, to facilitate the safe disposal of “sharps” (a type of medical waste that includes syringes and needles) passed its final hurdle in the Legislature. Consumer Protection, Public Safety, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 486: Medical Sharps Disposal 2009-09-10T21:18:30+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/privacy_protection_bill_heads_to_governors_desk/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/privacy_protection_bill_heads_to_governors_desk/#When:21:08:45Z The State Legislature approved State Senator Joe Simitian’s (D-Palo Alto) SB 20, a bill to strengthen and update California’s landmark privacy protection law. Privacy, Consumer Protection, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 20: Security Breach Notification Improvements 2009-09-09T21:08:45+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_town_hall_meetings_in_cupertino_redwood_city_and_palo_alto/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_town_hall_meetings_in_cupertino_redwood_city_and_palo_alto/#When:17:28:13Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today a series of town hall meetings this month in Cupertino, Redwood City, and Palo Alto to talk with community members about state government issues. Press Releases 2009-09-01T17:28:13+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_countrys_largest_public_utility_supports_simitian_renewable_/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_advisory_countrys_largest_public_utility_supports_simitian_renewable_/#When:22:14:33Z Sacramento- Today the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa released a letter in strong support of SB 14 by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). The bill requires investor owned utilities, publicly owned utilities, and energy service providers to procure 33% of their electricity from renewable sources such as wind, solar and geothermal by 2020. SB 14 passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee last week, and is currently on the Assembly floor awaiting a vote. Environment, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 14: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2009-08-31T22:14:33+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_in_willow_glen_campbell/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_in_willow_glen_campbell/#When:17:02:26Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold “sidewalk office hours” in Willow Glen on August 29th and Campbell on August 30th. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2009-08-18T17:02:26+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_move_over_slow_down_bill/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_move_over_slow_down_bill/#When:22:47:55Z Sacramento- Today Governor Schwarzenegger signed Senate Bill 159, by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), making legislation that requires drivers to move over or slow down when approaching roadside emergency scenes along the highway, permanent. Miscellaneous, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 159: Move Over, Slow Down Sunset Repeal, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 1610: Move Over, Slow Down 2009-08-06T22:47:55+00:00 http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_in_los_altos_and_san_carlos/ http://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_in_los_altos_and_san_carlos/#When:19:01:06Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold “sidewalk office hours” in Los Altos on July 30th and San Carlos on August 6th. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2009-07-23T19:01:06+00:00