Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
Kicking off with some personal news…this was a big week for the Petrie-Norris Family! Dylan turned 18 and Hayden got his driver's license. Time is flying!
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
I'm thrilled to share the highlights video from one of my favorite events of the year—the 7th Annual Women of the Year celebration! It was an inspiring evening recognizing incredible women making a difference in our community. Congratulations once again to this year's honorees on this well-deserved recognition—you continue to inspire us all!
Building a resilient economy in California is one of my top priorities. I was honored to speak to the California Manufacturers & Technology Association, where I had the opportunity to discuss key issues facing our state's economic future. As Chair of the Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy, and a member of the Budget and Economic Development, Growth and Household Impact committees, I remain committed to advancing policies that support manufacturing, drive innovation, and promote long-term economic growth across California.
Our obstetricians and gynecologists guide us through trying and life-changing experiences, ensuring that we receive the support and medical attention we need during times of uncertainty. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), a leading organization representing over 60,000 OB-GYNs, chose me as their Legislative Champion of the Year. I am truly honored by this recognition, and look forward to continuing my work alongside ACOG to support policies that protect and expand access to reproductive health care in California.
I welcomed Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley to Sacramento and had productive meeting about the county's legislative and budget priorities. We are working together to secure state resources and deliver for Orange County!
Did you know that the John Wayne Airport was named the top large airport for customer satisfaction in North America by J.D. Power in 2024? Not only that, they were also recognized for the Best Sustainability in Airports award at the 2025 AX Awards! My team recently toured the airport's impressive upgrades and operations. These projects are designed to enhance the traveler experience—from streamlined security checkpoints and improved signage to upgraded dining options and expanded seating areas. Together, these improvements help ensure a more efficient, comfortable, and sustainable journey for everyone passing through Orange County's gateway.
Children's Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) plays a vital role in caring for the youngest members of our community, offering essential medical services and support to children and their families. My team visited CHOC to learn more about their incredible programs, including the Child Life Program and Spiritual Care Services. CHOC will also be hosting their 2025 Wellness Fair on Saturday, May 3, featuring health resources, education, and services. For more information, click here.
Did you know over 330,000 people in Orange County face food insecurity? In 2024 alone, Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County (SHFBOC) distributed 35.8 million pounds of food to those in need—helping ensure consistent access to nutritious meals and building a stronger foundation for community health and well-being. We greatly appreciated the SHFBOC team sitting down with us to discuss the current state of food insecurity. Together, we will work toward a future where no one has to worry about where their next meal will come from.
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Our first responders are the backbone of our communities—rushing toward danger, providing comfort in crisis, and showing unwavering courage when it's needed most. Congratulations to the honorees recognized by the Rotary Club of Tustin-Santa Ana for your incredible service as first responders! Your dedication, strength, and compassion in the toughest moments truly make a difference, and we're so grateful for everything you do.
The California Distinguished Schools award recognizes schools that demonstrate exemplary achievement in providing a high-quality education to all students. I am incredibly proud to see 12 schools across Irvine Unified School District (IUSD), Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD), Tustin Unified School District (TUSD) recognized with this honor! This prestigious award highlights the dedication and hard work of educators, students, and families who have created an environment of excellence. These schools are a true reflection of the commitment to providing quality education and supporting student success.
RESOURCES
Don't let the April 15th tax filing deadline catch you off guard! Call (714) 573-3340 to schedule your appointment at the Tustin Area Senior Center with AARP today to secure your spot.
Do you have a history of community service, passion for transportation-related issues and live in the First, Third, Fourth, or Fifth Supervisorial Districts? If so, consider applying to the OC Go (also known as Measure M) Taxpayer Oversight Committee!
Traveling soon? John Wayne Airport understands traveling through an airport can be a challenging experience for individuals with hidden disabilities like Autism. To ease some of the stress associated with airport travel, the Helping Hands team is here to help. If you need further assistance with TSA, you can find some additional resources here.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Apr. 19 - Irvine Earth Day Event
Visit Quail Hill Community Center to enjoy guided hikes, a composting demo, and interactive activities and presentations offered by the City of Irvine and partner agencies Saturday, April 19, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Apr. 23 - Financial Literacy Month Resource Webinar
Follow the Path to Financial Well-being! Register for the free California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation's (DFPI) Financial Literacy Resource Webinar. DFPI will focus on consumer spending behavior helping you better understand what factors influence your financial habits and how they affect your relationship with spending.
Apr. 26 - Costa Mesa Earth Day Festival
Join your neighbors for fun activities and sustainable education at the annual Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Costa Mesa City Hall.
Apr. 26 - Tustin Mobile Dental Clinic
Join us at Aldersgate United Methodist Church – Tustinto receive free dental care for all ages from the UCI Delta Delta Sigma Dental Clinic. Services provided include dental exams, cleanings, and the opportunity to schedule treatment follow-up with the same team.
