Sen. Dodd: New Laws Take Effect Jan. 1

SACRAMENTO – Measures to prevent wildfires by encouraging controlled burning and to bolster pandemic recovery by allowing restaurants to sell to-go cocktails are among the seven new laws taking effect Jan. 1 that were written by Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa.

“These new laws address some of California’s most pressing issues, including the rise in devastating wildfires and the need to maintain support for our rebounding economy,” Sen. Dodd said. “We face historic challenges and I’m happy to provide these commonsense solutions to ensure progress. I look forward to hitting the ground running next year as we continue to build a safer and more prosperous state for everyone.”

“Creating a state government office that will study and test emerging technologies to prevent, predict and fight wildfires shows great foresight,” said Ray Gayk, president of the California Fire Chiefs Association. “California needs every tool in its toolbox to combat the devastation wrought by catastrophic wildfires.”  

“Senator Dodd has hit the sweet spot here with SB 389 as it gives restaurants an additional way to serve customers with proper conditions and protections for public safety,” said John Tallichet, chairman of the California Restaurant Association board. “As so many neighborhood restaurants throughout California continue to struggle to get back to full indoor operation, SB 389 helps respond to changing consumer expectations by offering more choices.”

Sen. Dodd is one of the most prolific lawmakers in the California Legislature with 80 bills signed into law since he took office in 2014. The following are among his latest bills, which take effect Jan. 1:

• SB 52 (Public Safety Power Shutoffs): Defines utility de-energization events in the face of disasters including wildfires as local emergencies, making local government eligible for financial reimbursement.
• SB 109 (Wildfire Safety Innovation): Establishes the Wildfire Technology Research and Development Office within Cal Fire to conduct research and test new technologies that will prevent, predict and fight wildfires.
• SB 332 (Prescribed Burning): Encourages controlled burning to prevent wildfire by making it easier for professional burn bosses to become insured.
• SB 389 (To-go Cocktails): Allows restaurants to sell to-go cocktails with takeout food orders, creating additional revenue and protecting jobs at struggling restaurants.
• SB 626 (Water System Improvements): Streamlines the contracting process for State Water Project improvements, saving money and ensuring the most efficient delivery of water during the continuing drought.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Solano, Yolo, Sonoma, Contra Costa, and Sacramento counties. You can learn more about the district and Senator Dodd at www.sen.ca.gov/dodd.