Governor Signs Assemblyman Gonzalez’s First Bill into Law

Governor Signs Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez’s First Bill into Law to Support Military Children with Disabilities

SACRAMENTO, – Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez , R-Indio, Vice Chair of Military and Veterans Affairs, this week had his first bill signed into law Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom.  AB 1412 into law, a bill that requires school districts to adopt or implement a student’s current or new Individualized Education Program (IEP) within 30 days of a student with exceptional needs transferring from out of state during the same academic year:

“This is more than just a bill; it’s a promise to the military families who sacrifice so much for our country,” Gonzalez said in a statement. As a Marine and a father, I’ve seen too many families face needless delays and frustration trying to get their children the services they need and deserve. AB 1412 ensures that when those families come to California, we meet them with action, not red tape. I’m deeply honored that my first bill signed into law reflects the values of service and compassion.”

This bill would require a school district to adopt or implement a student’s current or new individual education program (IEP) within 30 days of a student with exceptional needs transferring from outside the state within the same academic year. This 30-day timeline begins upon receipt of student records. AB 1412 also requires the new school district to take reasonable steps that are consistent with the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children to ensure prompt record acquisition, including unofficial records provided by the parent or guardian. This bill ensures timely access to services for highly mobile students with exceptional needs during school transfers.

Gonzalez is a father of a child with disabilities.

Gov. Newsom also signed Gonzalez’s Assembly Bill 764 into law. The bill adds mute swans to the list of exotic nongame birds that can be legally managed, helping protect California’s native species and delicate ecosystems:

“California is home to some of the most unique and diverse ecosystems in the world, and it’s our responsibility to defend them. AB 764 is a proactive, science-driven solution to a fast-growing problem—one that threatens our native wildlife and the health of our wetlands. By responsibly managing invasive mute swans, we’re taking an important step to ensure future generations inherit a California just as rich in natural beauty as the one we enjoy today.”

Mute swans, originally introduced from Europe, have become a highly invasive species in California. Their aggressive and territorial behavior, combined with a rapidly increasing population, poses a serious threat to native waterfowl such as ducks and geese. Mute swans also consume large amounts of submerged aquatic vegetation—an essential food and habitat source for many sensitive native species.

According to recent data, mute swan populations in California have surged to 6,912—an increase of 71% over 2023 estimates and 535% above their long-term average. AB 764 addresses this alarming trend by allowing mute swans to be managed under existing exotic nongame bird regulations. This measure provides wildlife officials with the tools they need to reduce environmental impacts and preserve biodiversity across California’s wetlands and waterways.

This legislation marks a significant step toward safeguarding California’s ecological heritage, public health, and outdoor recreation economy.

Gonzalez represents Imperial County and portions of Riverside and San Bernardino County in the California Legislature. District 36 includes Anza, Blythe, Brawley, Calexico, Coachella, El Centro, Hemet, Holtville, Imperial, Indio, Mecca, Salton City, Thermal, Westmorland, Winchester, and Winterhaven.