June 2025 Newsletter
Legislative Progress: Advancing California's Future
As we reach the midpoint of the 2025 legislative session, I remain steadfast in my commitment to enacting policies that enhance the well-being of residents in the 21st Assembly District and across California. My legislative efforts this year focus on environmental protection, public health, and renewable energy.
I am also working to secure the financial resources our district needs in the State Budget – ensuring dollars owed to our communities are returned and that our communities remain eligible for state investments in climate resiliency projects.
Within the Assembly, I am proud to serve as the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Water, Parks & Wildlife, helping to oversee the breadth of our state’s natural resources. I also serve on several key committees, including the Assembly committees Transportation, Utilities & Energy, Environmental Safety & Toxic Materials, and the Judiciary—positions that allow me to bring your concerns directly into the policy-making process.
While it has been a busy legislative session, I continue to come home to engage with the communities that I represent, hosting several community-focused events with many more events scheduled in the coming weeks and months.
I look forward to seeing you in the community soon.
Community Engagement: Strengthening Local Bonds |
Engaging directly with constituents remains a cornerstone of my service. Recent events have provided valuable opportunities to connect and collaborate with community members.
On January 24, 2025, I was pleased to participate in a League of California Cities – Peninsula Division panel with several of my colleagues to discuss issues of interest and engage with local councilmembers from throughout the region. The event, hosted by the City of South San Francisco, was a great chance to hear from local officials and discuss the many challenges and opportunities ahead.
Pictured from left are Assemblymember Diane Papan, Hillsborough Councilmember Marie Chuang, San Mateo County Supervisor Lisa Gauthier, Belmont Mayor Julia Mates and Millbrae Councilmember Stephen Rainaldi.
On February 8, 2025, I joined community members and local officials from the City of Millbrae for the ribbon cutting of the newly renovated Bayside Manor and Marina Vista parks. Along with my colleague, State Senator Josh Becker, we were able to secure $300,000 in state funding to support these projects. The improved parks are now welcoming, modern and accessible places to play and gather.
Pictured are Millbrae councilmembers Reuben Holober, Sissy Riley, Bob Ng, Stephen Rainaldi, Mayor Anders Fung, Millbrae City Manager Tom Williams and guests.
On March 3, 2025, I had the honor of recognizing the College of San Mateo (CSM) Bulldogs football team for their outstanding 2024 championship season on the floor of both the Assembly Chambers. The Bulldogs secured their second state and national title in three years with a dominant 43-11 victory over Mount San Antonio College on December 14, 2024. It was a thrill to honor our local team for the great season and outstanding athletic and academic program.
Pictured are Assemblymember Papan at the center surrounded by the College of San Mateo Bulldogs Football Team players and coaches as well as administrators and board members of the San Mateo County Community College District.
Legislative Update |
Key Legislative Initiatives:
- Assembly Bill 60 – The MUSK Act: This bill aims to restrict the use of synthetic nitro musk chemicals in cosmetics and personal care products by 2027. These substances, linked to endocrine disruption and other health issues, have been banned in the EU for decades. AB 60 seeks to protect consumers, particularly women and young girls, from these harmful chemicals.
- Assembly Bill 527: Will streamline the permitting for exploratory geothermal energy projects to help California meet our green energy goals.
- Assembly Bill 1146: In response to concerns about politically motivated water releases, AB 1146 seeks to prevent unnecessary and harmful discharges from California's reservoirs, ensuring water management decisions are based on sound science and public interest.
- Assembly Bill 1250: Ensures that individuals with permanent disabilities or medical conditions that make them eligible for paratransit services are not required to repeatedly recertify their eligibility.
Stay tuned for more legislative as well as budget updates. You can also stay in touch and get more info at my website.
Upcoming Events |
San Carlos Office Hours with Supervisor Ray Mueller
Join me at the San Carlos Library to discuss your priorities for District 21 and meet local staff.
Location: San Carlos Library Community Room
Date: Saturday, June 21 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Annual Pride Parade in San Mateo
Join me in celebrating PRIDE in San Mateo for the San Mateo County Pride 2025. Bring your friends and family to watch the parade, enjoy entertainment, and visit community booths.
Location: Downtown San Mateo
Date: Saturday, June 14 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
In The News |
Diane Papan introduces legislation to prevent politically motivated water releases in state
Legislation to prevent the unnecessary and harmful discharge of California water from reservoirs under false pretenses was introduced by Assemblymember Diane Papan, D-San Mateo.
California Recognized March 25, 2025, as Greek Independence Day
The California State Assembly has unanimously passed Assembly Concurrent Resolution 35, recognizing March 25, 2025, as Greek Independence Day throughout the state.
Assembly Bill 1313 (PAPAN) Balancing Stormwater Management
On March 25, California Assemblymember Diane Papan introduced Assembly Bill 1313 to enact a statewide commercial stormwater permit that will equitably balance stormwater management while encouraging stormwater capture to develop more green space in urban communities.
Menopause care is critical to improving women’s health
Menopause is a universal and natural phase that impacts all women and manifests in a variety of often perplexing ways, yet it remains shrouded in misinformation and inadequate medical support.
District Office Internship Program |
We are currently seeking applicants to participate in our District Office Internship Program for Fall and Winter 2025. The ideal candidate will have an interest in state and local policy, communications, public relations, and other related fields. Additionally, the ideal candidate will have the following:
- Written and oral communication skills
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail
- Critical thinking and creative problem solving
- Ability to manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines
Interns will gain valuable education and work experience by fully participating in agreed-upon work hours. All internship work is voluntary and students will not receive any monetary compensation. Interns are expected to work a minimum of 20 hours per week for three months.
For more information and to apply, please visit our website. If you have any questions, please reach out to our district office at (650) 349-2200.
Explore California's Natural Beauty |
Summer is an ideal time to experience California's diverse landscapes through our exceptional state parks system. Whether you're interested in hiking, camping, or simply enjoying nature, there's something for everyone.
State Parks Passes: Various pass options are available to suit different needs, providing access to numerous parks across the state. Learn more and obtain your pass here.
Stay Connected! |
Your input and engagement are vital. If you have questions about state programs, need assistance with a state agency, or wish to share your thoughts on pending legislation, please reach out to my office or follow me on social media.
I look forward to continuing our work together to build a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant California.
Sincerely,
Diane Papan
Assemblymember, 21st District