Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
Every day in America, 34 people die in drunk driving crashes — that's one life lost every 42 minutes. California is at the epicenter of this crisis, home to 8 of the 10 deadliest cities in the nation for drunk driving.
AB 366 aims to reduce repeat DUI offenses by expanding statewide use of ignition interlock devices — also known as breathalyzers — a proven, effective tool that prevents individuals from operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. In 2023 alone, these devices prevented more than 30,000 attempted starts.
With DUI-related injuries and fatalities on the rise, AB 366 offers a common-sense, preventative solution to keep our roads and communities safer. Thank you to my colleagues for their strong support, and to the many advocates who worked tirelessly to help move this legislation forward. Together, we are taking meaningful action to prevent tragedy and protect lives.
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
June is Pride Month — a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and honor the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance. It's also a moment to reflect on the hard-fought progress we've made and the work that still lies ahead to ensure every person can live free from discrimination.
Our diversity is one of our greatest strengths. By standing together, we can continue to build a more inclusive, safe, and equitable future for all. Wishing everyone a joyful and empowering Pride Month!
Energy affordability remains a top priority for me in the legislature, and I'm committed to doing everything I can to keep costs manageable for Californians. This week, I chaired our annual Utilities & Energy oversight hearing to take a closer look at the future of California's transportation fuels. With refinery closures on the horizon and declining in-state oil production, we examined how these changes could impact fuel supply and gas prices. We also heard from state agencies on the implementation of SBX1-2 and ABX-21 and explored what steps the Legislature can take to stabilize the market and protect consumers.
Clean energy isn't just a future goal—it's becoming our way of life. I had the pleasure of co-hosting Electric Happy Hour with the Building Decarbonization Coalition, where we explored how home electrification can be both practical and powerful. From cooking up delicious meals on an induction stove to learning how heat pumps can efficiently heat and cool our homes, it's clear that small changes can lead to big impact.
It was great to catch up with the Orange County Business Council in a legislative roundtable to discuss my ongoing commitment to improving energy affordability, ensuring that all families have access to reliable, affordable energy while supporting sustainable solutions that protect our environment and economy.
Thank you to OC Tax for the opportunity to share legislative updates, highlight my work on energy affordability, and discuss my bill AB 334, introduced in partnership with the Transportation Corridor Agencies. The bill makes it easier for drivers to use just one account or transponder for all toll roads, while keeping their privacy and data secure. This will simplify payments, cut down on hassle, and make the whole toll experience smoother for everyone.
Celebrating 50 incredible years of service! Congratulations to the Irvine Police Department on this golden anniversary. Your dedication, courage, and unwavering commitment have helped make Irvine one of the safest cities in America. Grateful for the strong partnership we share.
Join us this summer for the IgniteHer Summit — an inspiring day of workshops, speakers, and empowering conversations designed to help you lead with confidence and spark change in your community. You'll connect with visionary leaders, hear from an incredible keynote speaker, and leave with the tools and support to turn your ideas into action. Don't miss this chance to ignite your future!
IN THE NEWS
To watch coverage about the Utilities and Energy Committee oversight hearing from KCRA 3, click here. The Hearing was also covered in CBS News and MSN.
COMMUNITY RECOGNITION
Looking for a cool spot to grab delicious treats and refreshing drinks? Check out Café 86 at the District! Team Cottie stopped by to celebrate their exciting opening and wish them continued success. Don't miss out on their ube specialties and cozy vibes!
RESOURCES
Join the City of Irvine for the launch of the Floatie Exchange Program — a new initiative to help families swap non–Coast Guard-approved floaties for free, approved life jackets for kids ages 6 and under. Life jackets will be available, while supplies last, at the Woollett Aquatics Center and at several City-sponsored events throughout the year.
To learn more or to make a reservation, click below.
Struggling to land interviews? EDD has got you covered! Their workshops are designed to help you boost your job search skills and land the role you've been aiming for. Check out our upcoming workshops below and take the next step in your career journey.
UPCOMING EVENTS
June 4 - Protect Yourself from AI Scams Webinar
AI-powered scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, making it harder to distinguish fact from fiction. Join our crucial webinar to explore the emerging landscape of AI-related scams and fraud. We'll talk about deepfakes, AI-generated phishing attempts, and other manipulative tactics. Learn how to spot the red flags, protect your identity, and safeguard your finances in the age of AI. Don't be caught off guard – register today and stay ahead of the curve!
June 7 - Irvine Free Paper Shredding Event
In partnership with the City of Irvine, Waste Management is hosting a free paper-shredding event Saturday, June 7, 9–11 a.m. at Lakeview Senior Center. Irvine Residents can safely and securely dispose of up to five banker-size file boxes. The event is first-come, first-served and will end early if the truck capacity is reached. Customers who wish to watch their paper be shredded will need to park in a designated area away from the truck and staff.
June 7 - Costa Mesa Community Health Resource Fair
You're invited to join Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, Supervisor Katrina Foley, Congressman Dave Min, CalOptima Health, County of Orange, City of Costa Mesa, and nonprofit organizations for a FREE Community Health Resource Fair at Lions Park in Costa Mesa!
- Learn about community resources for basic needs, health and wellness and mental health resources
- Apply for CalFresh and Medi-Cal
- Free health and dental screenings
- Free diapers and food distribution (while supplies last)
- Enjoy family-fun activities
June 13 - Brain Wellness Symposium
The OC Healthy Brain Initiative and Partners invite you to a FREE Brain Wellness Symposium & Resource Fair on Friday, June 13 in Costa Mesa. Join the partners for a day of interactive learning and connect with clinical experts and organizations dedicated to the improvement of brain health across the lifespan.
June 21 - Harvest Solutions Farm Volunteer Event
Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris and Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County invite you to Harvest Solutions Farm to help harvest seasonal produce or plant crops so that our neighbors have consistent access to nutritious food creating a foundation for community health and well-being.
