http://www.senatorsimitian.com/news/index/ en phil.yost@sen.ca.gov Copyright 2012 2012-11-29T00:41:57+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/keplers_named_11th_senate_district_small_business_of_the_year1/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/keplers_named_11th_senate_district_small_business_of_the_year1/#When:00:41:57Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today his selection of Kepler’s Books and Magazines as the 11th Senate District’s Small Business of the Year. This is the second time Simitian has given the award to Kepler’s. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2012-11-29T00:41:57+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honored_for_exposing_the_secret_of_breast_cancer_detection/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honored_for_exposing_the_secret_of_breast_cancer_detection/#When:18:18:32Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) was recently honored by a breast cancer advocacy group for championing legislation to improve breast cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue. Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1538: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening 2012-11-20T18:18:32+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_telephone_town_hall_and_exit_interview/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_telephone_town_hall_and_exit_interview/#When:18:31:37Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), who is leaving office at the end of November due to term limits, will hold a telephone town hall and “exit interview” this Sunday from 11 a.m. to noon. Press Releases 2012-11-14T18:31:37+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_and_gordon_to_host_education_update/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_and_gordon_to_host_education_update/#When:18:25:15Z On Saturday, State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) and Assemblyman Rich Gordon (D-Menlo Park) will jointly host an Education Update to discuss school funding, K-12 legislation, and the status of the California education system. The update, which is open to the public, will be held from 10 a.m. until noon at the Palo Alto Unified School District board room. Education, Press Releases 2012-11-14T18:25:15+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honored_wednesday_as_early_learning_champion/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honored_wednesday_as_early_learning_champion/#When:19:17:10Z On Wednesday, surrounded by four-year-olds in a transitional kindergarten (TK) classroom created by his legislation, State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will be recognized for his work championing the cause of early childhood education. At 10 a.m. at Taft Elementary, the nonprofit advocacy group Preschool California will present Simitian with its Early Learning Lifetime Achievement Award. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1381: Kindergarten Age 2012-11-05T19:17:10+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_simitian_bill_to_streamline_school_construction1/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_signs_simitian_bill_to_streamline_school_construction1/#When:21:55:49Z Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation Friday providing schools with a construction alternative proven to save millions in school construction dollars, provide added flexibility and speed up the construction process. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1509: School Design-Build Contracts 2012-10-01T21:55:49+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_green_lights_simitians_red-light_camera_reforms/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/governor_green_lights_simitians_red-light_camera_reforms/#When:23:53:01Z Today, Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill to keep the public safe and protect the rights of drivers by regulating red-light cameras. Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1303: Red Light Cameras 2012-09-28T23:53:01+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_drug_recycling_bill_signed_by_governor/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_drug_recycling_bill_signed_by_governor/#When:21:08:15Z Today, Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) that would make it easier for surplus, unopened medication to be donated to uninsured Californians. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1329: Prescription Drug Recycling Programs 2012-09-28T21:08:15+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_protect_renters_in_foreclosure_signed_by_governor/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_protect_renters_in_foreclosure_signed_by_governor/#When:19:28:59Z A winning entry in State Senator Joe Simitian’s (D-Palo Alto) 2011-12 "There Oughta Be a Law" contest was signed into law Tuesday by Governor Jerry Brown. Senate Bill 1191 will warn prospective tenants when the property they are looking to rent is subject to foreclosure. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1191: Default Disclosure to Prospective Tenants 2012-09-26T19:28:59+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/check_the_box_fund_the_fight_simitian_bill_to_boost_cancer_research_signed_/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/check_the_box_fund_the_fight_simitian_bill_to_boost_cancer_research_signed_/#When:17:43:54Z A bill to allow voluntary contributions to two popular cancer research tax check-off funds was signed by the Governor yesterday. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1359: Tax Check-offs for Cancer Research 2012-09-24T17:43:54+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_breast_cancer_detection_bill_signed_by_governor/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_breast_cancer_detection_bill_signed_by_governor/#When:03:06:57Z Governor Jerry Brown has signed a bill to improve breast cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue, Senate Bill 1538, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1538: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening 2012-09-23T03:06:57+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_drug_recycling_bill_heads_to_the_governor/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_drug_recycling_bill_heads_to_the_governor/#When:02:06:59Z Today, the State Senate passed a bill by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) that would make it easier for surplus, unopened medication to be donated to uninsured Californians. Senate Bill 1329, passed out on a 38-0 vote, is now headed to Governor Jerry Brown’s desk for approval. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1329: Prescription Drug Recycling Programs 2012-08-31T02:06:59+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_breast_cancer_detection_bill_are_you_dense_passes_legislature/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_breast_cancer_detection_bill_are_you_dense_passes_legislature/#When:19:46:53Z A bill to improve breast cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue passed unanimously out of the State Senate and is now headed to Governor Jerry Brown’s desk. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1538: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening 2012-08-30T19:46:53+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/check_the_box_fund_the_fight_simitian_bill_to_boost_breast_cancer_research_/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/check_the_box_fund_the_fight_simitian_bill_to_boost_breast_cancer_research_/#When:05:14:51Z A bill to allow voluntary contributions to two popular breast cancer research tax check-off funds passed unanimously out of the State Senate today and is now headed to Governor Jerry Brown’s desk. The vote was 37-0. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1359: Tax Check-offs for Cancer Research 2012-08-30T05:14:51+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_are_you_dense_public_forum_on_breast_cancer_awareness_and_/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_are_you_dense_public_forum_on_breast_cancer_awareness_and_/#When:19:34:28Z Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo alto), Chair of the Senate Select Committee on Breast Cancer Awareness and Detection, invites the public to attend an important “Are You Dense?” forum on Tuesday, September 11th to talk about the risks associated with dense breast tissue and what women should be discussing with their doctors. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1538: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening 2012-08-29T19:34:28+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_strengthen_hands-free_and_no_texting_laws_heads_to_the_gov/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bill_to_strengthen_hands-free_and_no_texting_laws_heads_to_the_gov/#When:23:22:50Z Today, the California State Senate passed Senate Bill 1310, a bill by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) which would strengthen California’s hands-free and no texting laws for motorists. The vote was 28-9. The bill now heads to Governor Jerry Brown’s desk for approval. Public Safety, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1310: Cell Phones and Texting While Driving 2012-08-28T23:22:50+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_at_local_farmers_markets1/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_sidewalk_office_hours_at_local_farmers_markets1/#When:18:14:46Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold “sidewalk office hours” in San Carlos, Redwood City and Campbell on September 6th, 8th and 9th. Simitian invites community members to stop by with their questions and concerns about state legislative issues. Press Releases 2012-08-28T18:14:46+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/legislature_passes_simitian_bill_to_curb_red-light_camera_abuses/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/legislature_passes_simitian_bill_to_curb_red-light_camera_abuses/#When:23:14:59Z A bill to protect the rights of drivers by regulating red-light cameras passed today in the State Senate and is now headed to the Governor for approval. The vote was 34-0. Senate Bill 1303, by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), would establish statewide standards for the installation and operation of traffic enforcement cameras, and make it easier to challenge unjustified tickets. Public Safety, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1303: Red Light Cameras, SB 29: Red Light Cameras 2012-08-27T23:14:59+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/legislature_passes_simitian_bill_to_protect_renters_in_foreclosure/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/legislature_passes_simitian_bill_to_protect_renters_in_foreclosure/#When:19:36:38Z A winning entry in State Senator Joe Simitian’s (D-Palo Alto) 2011-12 “There Oughta Be a Law” contest passed recently out of the Legislature and is now headed to Governor Jerry Brown’s desk. Senate Bill 1191 would warn prospective tenants when the property they are looking to rent is subject to foreclosure. It requires that a landlord who receives a Notice of Default provide written notice to any prospective tenant before a lease is signed. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1191: Default Disclosure to Prospective Tenants 2012-08-23T19:36:38+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/as_school_starts_ca_launches_its_first_new_grade_level_in_more_than_a_centu/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/as_school_starts_ca_launches_its_first_new_grade_level_in_more_than_a_centu/#When:20:54:04Z As the school year begins, districts throughout California will begin offering transitional kindergarten (TK) – the first new grade level in the state since 1891. This school year, more than 800 school districts are expected to offer transitional kindergarten, the first year of a two-year kindergarten for children with fall birthdays who will be too young under a new cutoff date to enter regular kindergarten. Education, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 30: Kindergarten Readiness Act Implementation, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1381: Kindergarten Age 2012-08-14T20:54:04+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/are_you_dense_thats_the_question_on_august_8th_are_you_dense_day/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/are_you_dense_thats_the_question_on_august_8th_are_you_dense_day/#When:19:09:12Z Are you dense? Ask your doctor. That’s the tagline State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will be using this week to raise awareness among Californians about dense breast tissue, a common yet little-known condition that increases the risk for developing breast cancer and makes it more difficult to detect cancer on a mammogram. Simitian is the author of Senate Joint Resolution 27 declaring August 8 “Are You Dense? Day” in California. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1538: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening, SB 791: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening, SJR 27: Are You Dense? Day 2012-08-06T19:09:12+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_protect_coastal_areas/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_protect_coastal_areas/#When:21:54:43Z The State Senate this week passed a bill by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) to ensure that any liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals built in California are done in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. Environment, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1496: Liquefied Natural Gas, SB 37: LNG Facility Planning, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 376: LNG Facility Planning, 2007-2008 Legislation, SB 412: Liquified Natural Gas Terminal Evaluation Act 2012-06-01T21:54:43+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_curb_red-light_camera_abuses/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_curb_red-light_camera_abuses/#When:20:21:11Z A bill to protect the rights of drivers by regulating red-light cameras passed unanimously today in the State Senate. The vote was 37-0. Senate Bill 1303, by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), would establish statewide standards for the installation and operation of traffic enforcement cameras, and make it easier to challenge unjustified tickets. Consumer Protection, Public Safety, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1303: Red Light Cameras, SB 29: Red Light Cameras, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1362: Red Light Cameras 2012-05-31T20:21:11+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_legislation_to_protect_renters_in_foreclosure/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_legislation_to_protect_renters_in_foreclosure/#When:19:14:07Z A winning entry in State Senator Joe Simitian’s (D-Palo Alto) 2011-12 “There Oughta Be a Law” contest passed Tuesday off the Senate floor. Senate Bill 1191 would warn prospective tenants when the property they are looking to rent is subject to foreclosure. It requires that a landlord who receives a Notice of Default provide written notice to any prospective tenant before a lease is signed. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1191: Default Disclosure to Prospective Tenants 2012-05-30T19:14:07+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_breast_cancer_detection_bill_unanimously/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_breast_cancer_detection_bill_unanimously/#When:22:31:04Z A bill to improve breast cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue passed unanimously out of the State Senate today. Senate Bill 1538, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), would require that following a mammogram, women with dense breast tissue be informed that they have dense breast tissue, which can obscure abnormalities (i.e. cancer) on a mammogram; and that they may wish to discuss the potential value of additional screening(s) with their doctors. Consumer Protection, Press Releases, There Oughta Be A Law Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1538: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening, SB 791: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening 2012-05-29T22:31:04+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/seniors_honor_simitian_for_financial_abuse_protections/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/seniors_honor_simitian_for_financial_abuse_protections/#When:22:49:02Z The Elder Financial Protection Network (EFPN), a nonprofit that works to combat elder financial abuse, honored State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) yesterday for his work protecting the state’s seniors. Elder Protection, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 33: Financial Elder Abuse Sunset Elimination, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 1018: Mandatory Reporting of Financial Abuse, SB 1609: Elder Abuse in Reverse Mortgages Prevention, 2003-2004 Legislation, AB 2611: Elder & Dependent Adult Abuse 2012-05-25T22:49:02+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/budget_subcommittee_to_vote_wednesday_on_plan_to_keep_state_parks_open/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/budget_subcommittee_to_vote_wednesday_on_plan_to_keep_state_parks_open/#When:21:22:01Z A proposal by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) and State Senator Noreen Evans (D-Santa Rosa) to keep open up to 50 state parks slated for closure will be up for a vote in a Senate budget subcommittee on Wednesday morning, May 23. The parks proposal will most likely start to be heard between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Environment, Press Releases 2012-05-22T21:22:01+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/state_senate_unanimously_passes_simitian_drug_redistribution_bill/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/state_senate_unanimously_passes_simitian_drug_redistribution_bill/#When:19:09:58Z Today, the State Senate unanimously passed a bill by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) which would make it easier for surplus, unopened medication to be donated to uninsured Californians. The vote was 38-0. Nonprofits, Miscellaneous, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1329: Prescription Drug Recycling Programs, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 798: Recovery & Reuse of Unused Prescription Medicines 2012-05-17T19:09:58+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_invites_constituents_to_santa_cruz_ice_cream_social_and_open_house/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_invites_constituents_to_santa_cruz_ice_cream_social_and_open_house/#When:21:16:45Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today that he will hold his eighth annual Ice Cream Social and Open House on Thursday, May 24, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at his office in Santa Cruz. He invites residents of the 11th State Senate District to drop in for informal conversation and ice cream. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2012-05-16T21:16:45+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_holds_may_22_celebration_to_honor_monique_kane_woman_of_the_year/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_holds_may_22_celebration_to_honor_monique_kane_woman_of_the_year/#When:20:45:07Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will hold a community celebration May 22 at the Los Altos History Museum to honor Monique Kane as the 11th State Senate District’s Woman of the Year. Kane is Executive Director of the Community Health Awareness Council (CHAC), a nonprofit mental health services agency in Mountain View. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2012-05-15T20:45:07+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_strengthen_hands-free_and_no_texting_laws/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senate_passes_simitian_bill_to_strengthen_hands-free_and_no_texting_laws/#When:23:24:46Z Today, the California State Senate passed Senate Bill 1310, a bill by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) which would strengthen California’s hands-free and no texting laws for motorists. The vote was 24-9. Public Safety, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1310: Cell Phones and Texting While Driving, SB 28: Cell Phones and Texting While Driving, 2007-2008 Legislation, SB 28: Texting while Driving Prohibition, SB 33: Teen Driver Cell Phone Safety, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 1613: Hands-free Cellphones 2012-05-14T23:24:46+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_named_legislator_of_the_year_by_the_california_junior_league/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_named_legislator_of_the_year_by_the_california_junior_league/#When:19:27:07Z The Junior League of California, a non-partisan organization with more than 11,000 volunteers throughout the state, has named State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) their "Legislator of the Year." Simitian was honored this week at a luncheon at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento, where he was singled out for his public policy work on behalf of children and families. Nonprofits, Press Releases 2012-05-10T19:27:07+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senators_simitian_and_evans_unveil_plan_to_keep_state_parks_open/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/senators_simitian_and_evans_unveil_plan_to_keep_state_parks_open/#When:21:21:20Z Today, State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) and State Senator Noreen Evans (D-Santa Rosa) unveiled a budget proposal to keep open up to 50 state parks slated for closure this year, and reverse the closure of still more in 2013, while providing a stable and long-term funding solution. As many as 70 state parks had been slated for closure beginning July 1, 2012. Press Releases 2012-05-08T21:21:20+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_call_11_a.m._tuesday_senators_simitian_and_evans_to_unveil_proposal_t/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_call_11_a.m._tuesday_senators_simitian_and_evans_to_unveil_proposal_t/#When:01:17:14Z In a media call 11 a.m. Tuesday, State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will unveil a budget proposal to stop the shutdown of up to 50 state parks and provide a long-term funding plan to protect them. Simitian will be joined on the call by State Senator Noreen Evans (D-Santa Rosa), a longtime advocate for the state parks. Press Releases 2012-05-08T01:17:14+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_call_monday_in_a_deadly_year_for_journalists_simitian_honors_world_pr/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_call_monday_in_a_deadly_year_for_journalists_simitian_honors_world_pr/#When:22:11:12Z On Monday at 11 a.m., State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will hold a media call to bring attention to the importance of press freedom and the many countries in which it is threatened. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SJR 22: World Press Freedom Day 2012 2012-04-27T22:11:12+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_read_to_fourth-graders_at_walter_hays_school/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_read_to_fourth-graders_at_walter_hays_school/#When:23:31:03Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will read to a class of fourth-grade students, taught by Holly Harrison and Jessica Tolerba, at Walter Hays Elementary School on Friday morning. Education, Press Releases 2012-04-25T23:31:03+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/monique_kane_named_11th_senate_district_woman_of_the_year/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/monique_kane_named_11th_senate_district_woman_of_the_year/#When:21:33:36Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) announced today his selection of Monique Kane, Executive Director of the Community Health Awareness Council, a nonprofit mental health services agency in Mountain View, as the 11th State Senate District’s Woman of the Year. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2012-04-04T21:33:36+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/bolstered_by_research_findings_simitian_reintroduces_breast_cancer_detectio/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/bolstered_by_research_findings_simitian_reintroduces_breast_cancer_detectio/#When:21:40:50Z Inspired by a breast cancer survivor in his district, State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) is reintroducing legislation to improve breast cancer detection. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 1538: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening 2012-03-29T21:40:50+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_call_wednesday_morning_simitian_to_reintroduce_breast_cancer_detectio/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/media_call_wednesday_morning_simitian_to_reintroduce_breast_cancer_detectio/#When:23:55:04Z On Wednesday at 10:30 a.m., State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will hold a media call on a bill that he’s reintroducing to improve breast cancer detection in women with dense breast tissue. A prior version of the bill was vetoed last year by Governor Jerry Brown. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 791: Comprehensive Breast Tissue Screening 2012-03-27T23:55:04+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/whats_a_typical_day_for_a_state_senator_simitian_to_speak_to_palo_alto_high/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/whats_a_typical_day_for_a_state_senator_simitian_to_speak_to_palo_alto_high/#When:21:20:23Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will speak to Palo Alto High School students on Friday about what it’s like to be a state Senator as part of the school’s annual Career Month Speaker Series. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2012-03-22T21:20:23+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_named_education_advocate_of_the_year_for_kindergarten_law/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_named_education_advocate_of_the_year_for_kindergarten_law/#When:17:55:30Z Early Intervention for School Success (EISS), a statewide program dedicated to increasing student achievement and lowering retention rates, has named State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) “Education Advocate of the Year” for his work authoring Senate Bill 1381, the Kindergarten Readiness Act of 2010. Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1381: Kindergarten Age 2012-03-16T17:55:30+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/high-speed_rail_hearing_to_give_public_a_sneak_preview_of_new_directions_on/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/high-speed_rail_hearing_to_give_public_a_sneak_preview_of_new_directions_on/#When:18:55:42Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will convene a Senate Informational Hearing on High-Speed Rail on March 13 in Mountain View to hear from High-Speed Rail experts and officials and to give the public an opportunity for input. Press Releases 2012-03-08T18:55:42+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/research_confirms_effectiveness_of_californias_distracted_driving_laws/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/research_confirms_effectiveness_of_californias_distracted_driving_laws/#When:23:27:10Z A study released today by the California Office of Traffic Safety shows that deaths due to hand-held cell phone use by drivers dropped dramatically following the enactment of the hands-free legislation authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto). Press Releases, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 1613: Hands-free Cellphones 2012-03-05T23:27:10+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_introduces_drug_redistribution_bill_to_reduce_waste_improve_health/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_introduces_drug_redistribution_bill_to_reduce_waste_improve_health/#When:19:25:29Z Every year, more than $9 billion in unused medicine and supplies are wasted in the United States. At the same time, studies show that more Americans are going without prescription drugs because of costs. A new bill introduced by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) would address these two problems by making it easier for surplus prescription medication to be donated to uninsured Californians. Press Releases 2012-02-24T19:25:29+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_praises_attorney_generals_enforcement_of_online_privacy_law_for_mo/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_praises_attorney_generals_enforcement_of_online_privacy_law_for_mo/#When:17:14:17Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), the author of the state’s online privacy law, today praised Attorney General Kamala Harris for the plan she announced Wednesday to bring the millions of users of mobile device applications, called “apps,” under the law’s protection. Privacy, Press Releases, 2003-2004 Legislation, AB 68: Online Privacy 2012-02-23T17:14:17+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_unveil_prescription_drug_redistribution_bill_says_its_just_the_/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_unveil_prescription_drug_redistribution_bill_says_its_just_the_/#When:16:56:42Z On Friday, State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), in partnership with a Stanford-based nonprofit, will introduce legislation to redistribute unused prescription drug medication to Californians in need. This new measure builds on legislation passed by Simitian in 2005. Press Releases 2012-02-23T16:56:42+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_recognized_for_making_a_difference_for_youth/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_recognized_for_making_a_difference_for_youth/#When:17:50:32Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) was awarded a “Making a Difference Award” recently from Friends for Youth, a non-profit mentoring organization based in Redwood City. Simitian was recognized as part of the organization’s 13th annual mentoring conference on February 10. Education, Press Releases 2012-02-14T17:50:32+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_legislation_creates_largest_coastal_no-discharge_zone_in_the_natio/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_legislation_creates_largest_coastal_no-discharge_zone_in_the_natio/#When:19:00:58Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), who authored the California law prohibiting coastal dumping by cruise ships and other oceangoing vessels, praised the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for its announcement today that it is finalizing a rule to ban all sewage discharge from large ships in state waters along the California coast. Environment, Press Releases, 2005-2006 Legislation, SB 771: Vessels : Discharge Ban 2012-02-13T19:00:58+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_announces_availability_of_senate_fellowships/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_announces_availability_of_senate_fellowships/#When:00:20:29Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) today announced the availability of applications for the 2012-2013 California Senate Fellows program. The program provides college graduates an opportunity to become full-time Senate staff at the state Capitol in Sacramento for 11 months beginning in October 2012. Miscellaneous, Press Releases 2012-01-25T00:20:29+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_education_update_/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_hold_education_update_/#When:23:48:22Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will hold an “Education Update” meeting on Saturday, January 28th, in Palo Alto to discuss this year’s proposed legislation and the budget challenges facing our public schools. Education, Press Releases 2012-01-23T23:48:22+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_be_named_the_power_association_of_northern_californias_person_o/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_be_named_the_power_association_of_northern_californias_person_o/#When:17:17:44Z The Power Association of Northern California (PANC), a nonprofit energy and utility association, has chosen State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) as their “Person of the Year.” Simitian is being recognized for his work authoring SB 2X, a bill which made California a national leader in its commitment to renewable energy. Simitian will be presented with the award on Thursday in San Francisco. Environment, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 23: RPS Amendments 2012-01-11T17:17:44+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_be_honored_as_community_media_champion/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_be_honored_as_community_media_champion/#When:22:50:17Z CreaTV San Jose, a nonprofit community media center, will present State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) with its “Community Media Champion” award on Saturday at the historic California Theatre in downtown San Jose. Capitol Focus, Press Releases 2012-01-06T22:50:17+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bills_become_law_on_january_1/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_bills_become_law_on_january_1/#When:23:01:29Z On issues ranging from clean energy to elder abuse and from drug abuse to consumer protection, these bills authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will become law on or by January 1. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 24: Data Breach Notification, SB 164: Child Trust Fund and Endangered Species Tax Check-Off, SB 221: Small Claims Court Increase, SB 225: Small Trucking Companies Leasing, SB 226: CEQA , SB 2X: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020, SB 33: Financial Elder Abuse Sunset Elimination, SB 36: Child Healthcare Access, SB 445: Library Records, SB 506: Registered Warrants and Tax Liability, SB 514: Dextromethorphan: sale to minors ban 2011-12-27T23:01:29+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/first-in-the-nation_robotripping_law_takes_effect_january_1/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/first-in-the-nation_robotripping_law_takes_effect_january_1/#When:19:17:17Z On January 1, California will become the first state in the nation to prohibit the sale of over-the-counter cold and cough medications containing dextromethorphan (DXM) to minors. Senate Bill 514, authored by State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto), will require store clerks to check identification to ensure that no one under 18 purchases these medications, which are known to cause a potentially life-threatening high when consumed in high doses. Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 514: Dextromethorphan: sale to minors ban, 2003-2004 Legislation, AB 1853: Dextromethorphan: sale to minors ban 2011-12-20T19:17:17+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honors_capitola_book_cafe_as_small_business_of_the_year/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honors_capitola_book_cafe_as_small_business_of_the_year/#When:18:23:21Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) will honor Capitola Book Café as the 11th State Senate District Small Business of the Year on Dec. 12 at the Book Café. At the event, Simitian will present a resolution praising the store’s contribution to the community and its commitment to reading, customer service and high business ethics. Resolutions, Press Releases 2011-12-08T18:23:21+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_be_honored_as_solar_hero/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_to_be_honored_as_solar_hero/#When:18:27:39Z SolarTech, a national renewable energy consortium, will present State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) with its annual “Solar Hero” award on Thursday in San Jose. As this year’s public sector honoree, Simitian is being recognized for his Senate Bill 2X, which made California a national leader in its commitment to renewable energy. Environment, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 2X: 33% Renewable Energy by 2020 2011-12-07T18:27:39+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honors_office_of_privacy_protection/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/simitian_honors_office_of_privacy_protection/#When:21:05:49Z State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) today recognized the California Office of Privacy Protection with a resolution celebrating that Office’s tenth anniversary. Simitian was joined in the recognition by his colleagues on the Senate Select Committee on Privacy and State Senator Noreen Evans (D-Santa Rosa), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee. Privacy, Press Releases, 2011-2012 Legislation, SB 24: Data Breach Notification 2011-11-28T21:05:49+00:00 https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/california_reading_association_names_simitian_policymaker_of_the_year/ https://www.senatorsimitian.com/entry/california_reading_association_names_simitian_policymaker_of_the_year/#When:18:03:13Z The California Reading Association will honor State Senator Joe Simitian (D-Palo Alto) tonight as its Policymaker of the Year. Simitian is receiving the award for his Kindergarten Readiness Act of 2010 (SB 1381), which requires children to be five years old to start kindergarten and provides an additional year of “Transitional Kindergarten” for children with fall birthdays. Education, Press Releases, 2009-2010 Legislation, SB 1381: Kindergarten Age 2011-11-04T18:03:13+00:00