Press Releases

SACRAMENTO – The California Legislature has approved a measure from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, that would boost consumer protection by improving oversight and training of California’s nearly 300,000 licensed contractors.

SACRAMENTO – The California Legislature today adopted the nation’s first artificial intelligence-drafted resolution – a measure expressing the state’s commitment to examining and implementing specified principles related to the use of AI.

“This is significant step toward ensuring California is at the forefront of responsible AI deployment and use,” Sen. Dodd said. “The principles outlined here will help protect the rights of the public while leveraging the benefits of AI. I appreciate the bipartisan support of my colleagues.”

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed legislation from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, in partnership with Secretary of State Shirley Weber, to increase transparency in presidential elections, helping to ensure the integrity of the democratic process.

“Now more than ever, we must ensure our presidential elections are fair and transparent,” Sen. Dodd said.  “With Gov. Newsom’s signing of my bill, we protect the free election process that has become a bulwark of democracy. In a time of rising polarization and division, it will bring additional safeguards to this important tradition.”

SACRAMENTO – Legislation advanced from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, in partnership with Attorney General Rob Bonta and Sen. Nancy Skinner, D-Berkeley, that would outlaw hidden charges on purchases – also known as junk fees --  ensuring consumers are not exposed to deceptive business practices that add unfair costs.