Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
Did you know that, on average, an individual drives drunk 80 times before their first arrest? This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for action, which is why I introduced AB 366.
Since 2019, drunk driving deaths in California have surged by 53%, putting countless lives at risk. AB 366 is a proactive solution to prevent these tragedies before they happen by requiring anyone convicted of drunk driving to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) – a simple yet effective tool that prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected. We know that IIDs work and are proven to reduce recidivism by 74%.
California's IID laws are set to expire in 2026, leaving California as the only state in the country without Ignition Interlock Device laws to protect our citizens from impaired drivers. At its core, AB 366 is just common sense. It will make our roads safer, protect our kids, and most importantly, save lives. It's time to take a stand against drunk driving and ensure no more families suffer the loss of a loved one to an entirely preventable crime.
To pass this legislation, I am building the Safe California Roads Coalition, bringing together survivors, victims' rights advocates, public safety officials, and other experts. I hope you'll join me in this fight. Click here to sign up for the California Safe Roads Coalition and help advocate for AB 366.
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I am committed to addressing the issues that are important to you. As always, if there is anything that my team or I can do to assist you with a local or state issue, if you have questions or concerns about what I am working on, or anything in between, please contact my office. My team and I are here to help!
Yours faithfully,
Cottie Petrie-Norris
California State Assemblywoman
Happy Lunar New Year! Wishing you a year filled with happiness, prosperity and success. As we welcome new beginnings, let's embrace the spirit of unity, resilience, and hope. May your celebrations be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments with family and friends.
Do you know an inspiring woman who has made a difference in your life? My office is accepting nominations for our 7th Annual Women of the Year Ceremony! Help us recognize outstanding women in our community. Click here to submit a nomination!
Thank you, The Utility Reform Network, for honoring me with the Affordable Bills Champion Award for my work on AB 3264 to ensure energy affordability remains a priority. I am committed to working on solutions that result in lower energy bills and put more money back in the pockets of California families.
It was an honor to join the California Coalition of Law Enforcement Associations at their legislative reception! I had the opportunity to connect with President Juan Viramontes, board members from the Association of Orange County Deputy Sheriffs, and Roger Hilton, President of the California Fraternal Order of Police, to discuss public safety and the needs of officers statewide.
Representing over 40 law enforcement associations statewide, CCLEA works tirelessly to elevate professional standards, support officer welfare, and strengthen trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. I'm proud to stand with them in these efforts and remain committed to policies that enhance public safety and build a stronger, safer California.
It was a pleasure to welcome the Coast Community College District and South Orange County Community College District to the State Capitol to discuss initiatives that expand opportunities for students in Orange County. I'm proud to represent the students, faculty and staff at Orange Coast College and Irvine Valley College in the 73rd District. Thank you for your dedication to our students and educational excellence!
The California Legislative Women's Caucus had the opportunity to meet with First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom to discuss key issues impacting women and families across California, and explored ways to advance policies that support gender equity and economic empowerment.
A special thank you to the League of Women Voters Orange Coast representatives who stopped by my office to hear about my legislative priorities and the issues that impact all Californians. I'm grateful for their critical work to ensure everyone is represented in our democracy.
I had a great tour of the Irvine Adult Day Health Services center, and saw firsthand the incredible work they do to support older adults and individuals with disabilities. From providing essential healthcare to fostering a sense of community, their services are vital to ensuring dignity, independence, and well-being for those they serve.
Team Cottie was proud to join the Orange County Labor Federation for their annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Labor Breakfast. The event brought together labor leaders, community advocates, and public officials to reflect on Dr. King's commitment to economic justice and civil rights. It was an honor to stand alongside those who continue Dr. King's legacy and to recognize the contributions of the labor movement in building a stronger, more just society.
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Team Cottie joined the Irvine Unified School District in celebrating Superintendent Terry Walker's retirement and for his unwavering commitment to excellence in education. He joined IUSD as a teacher in 1997 and rose through the administrative ranks to become the seventh IUSD superintendent in 2011. This milestone marks the end of a distinguished 14-year tenure as superintendent in which he has helped shape IUSD into one of the highest-performing school districts in California. We wish Terry a joyful and well-deserved retirement!
RESOURCES
Did you make less than $67,000 in 2024? You might be eligible to file your taxes for free and claim cash-back credits. Through the OC Free Tax Prep program, Orange County United Way and countless dedicated partners are working with our community to increase the number of financially stable households in Orange County.
If you've been impacted by the fires in Los Angeles, the California Department of Financial Protection & Innovation is here to help. The DFPI website has information on mortgage relief, student loan assistance and fraud & scam protection. Also, check out their resources on obtaining a free credit report.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Feb. 5 - Protect Yourself from Romance Scams
Don't let love blind you! Join this webinar hosted by the California Department of Financial Protection & Innovation to learn how to safeguard your heart and your wallet from online romance scams. Discover the tactics used by scammers, red flags to watch for, and practical tips to stay safe in the digital age. Special guest presenter: the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Everyone who registers for this webinar will receive a link to the recording and a copy of the slides.
