Sen. Dodd: Memorial Day + Veteran ID Cards + Legislative Update

A Message from Senator Bill Dodd

Dear Neighbor,

May is a time to bask in the blossoming beauty of spring. On Memorial Day, it’s also a time to remember American military veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our country. Please keep these brave men and women in mind throughout the year.

In Sacramento, we are advancing a number of proposals to enhance things you value most including our public schools, wildfire prevention and public safety. Already, the governor has signed my bill to protect the investments of vulnerable seniors and the Legislature has approved other measures. 

In this Issue:

As always, my office is available to help you with a state agency or answer any questions you might have. You can contact me by visiting my website.

Sincerely,

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Senator Bill Dodd, District 3

 

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Special Veterans Identification Cards and Access to Benefits

Through their service to our country, veterans have earned a wide range of benefits. However, it can be difficult to verify their service in order to acquire those benefits. In fact, not having proof of military service is one of the biggest obstacles veterans face gaining access to resources, benefits, and services.

Under a new California law veterans can apply for a California driver’s license or ID card with a “Veteran” designation. The new Veteran ID provides proof of military service, making it easier for California veterans to access benefits and services.

Applying for the veteran designation on your driver's license or ID card is easy:

  • •    Stop by your local County Veteran Service Officer with your DD214 for verification. If you need help obtaining your military records, first contact your local County Veteran Service Officer (CVSO).
  • •    Go to www.dmv.ca.gov, or call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133, to make an appointment. Bring the application form verified by your CVSO and the small $5 application fee.

Learn more about how to get your new Veterans ID card here.
 

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 Legislative Update

I’ve written a number of bills this year addressing critical needs including wildfire safety and consumer protection. The following is an update on key bills that are advancing at this time:

  • SB 896 AI Accountability Act: Ensures state agencies advance safeguards and consumer protections around AI.
  • SB 904 SMART: Cleanup of the SMART train’s enabling legislation and adds voter initiative powers.
  • SB 1014 Wildfire Mitigation Strategic Planning Act: Creates a framework for evaluating wildfire mitigation investments taken by public and private actors to speed repairs and save money.
  • SB 1159 Roadside Vegetation Management: Encourages the clearing of flammable brush and other debris alongside roadways to reduce wildfires.
  • SB 1166 Higher Ed Data Reporting: Extends reporting requirements on sexual harassment and violence cases to the California State University, University of California systems and California Community College systems.
  • SB 1379 Solano Sheriff: Temporarily allows retired annuitants working for the Solano County Sheriff to exceed the work limit to address a critical staffing need for the city of Vallejo.
     

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 In the News

Here are some of the latest news stories that may be of interest to you. As always, please contact my office if you have any questions about state policy or want to express your position or ideas for legislation.

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