Welcome to "Catching Up With Cottie" - a weekly update about what I am working on as your representative in the California State Assembly.
Today is Election Day! Voters have several voting options they can use to cast their ballot for the Primary Election:
If you drop off your ballot at your local U.S. Post Office, you should request a postmark for June 2 in order for your ballot to be counted.
Track your Vote-By-Mail ballot every step of the way with the Voter Lookup Tool.
It is a privilege to serve you. If you need assistance with a local or state matter, have questions about my work, or would like to share feedback, please don't hesitate to contact my office. My team and I are always here to help.
Yours faithfully,
Cottie Petrie-Norris
California State Assemblywoman
This Saturday, June 6, is California Adopt-a-Pet Day. Shelters across California are waiving adoption fees. Last year, almost 5,000 dogs, cats, and rabbits found homes in a single day. I know firsthand the joy a rescue pet can bring — our family adopted Flounder from a local shelter, and he has been an incredible addition to our home. If you've been considering adding a furry friend to your family, now is a great time to adopt. Find your local shelter at www.caadoptapetday.org.
IN THE CAPITOL
I am proud to announce that 10 of my bills were passed by the California State Assembly and are advancing to the State Senate. These measures reflect my commitment to addressing California's most pressing challenges – from reducing energy costs and advancing clean energy to enhancing public safety and strengthening wildfire resilience. Read about my bills. Key bill highlights:
- AB 2463: Cuts through the black box of utility ratemaking — requiring the CPUC to clearly document how it sets profits for utility shareholders.
- AB 2493: Ensures California can deliver clean, reliable energy while capturing billions in federal tax benefits for California ratepayers.
- AB 2516: Establishes the California Grid Manufacturing Initiative to reduce the cost of critical grid equipment through coordinated bulk purchasing and expanded in-state manufacturing.
- AB 1830: Requires anyone convicted of drunk driving to install an ignition interlock device — a breathalyzer.
- AB 2513: Ensures regional entities can access state grants to reduce wildfire risks in non-forested areas, including Southern California's shrub and chaparral landscapes
IN THE DISTRICT
We were honored to attend the Orange County Fire Authority's Best & Bravest Awards, celebrating the firefighters, paramedics, and staff who go above and beyond in service to our communities every single day. These men and women demonstrate extraordinary courage and dedication, and it was humbling to recognize their achievements alongside their families and fellow first responders. I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to OCFA for their swift and professional response to the recent hazmat incident in Garden Grove — a situation that required specialized training, quick thinking, and seamless coordination. We are truly fortunate to have such a skilled and dedicated team protecting Orange County communities.
The Irvine Ranch Conservancy works tirelessly to protect, restore, and enhance the open spaces that make our region so special — and it was a privilege for us to celebrate their incredible volunteers and partners at this year's Volunteer and Partner Celebration. I am proud to partner with IRC in this vital mission, including securing state funding for the Bommer Canyon fuel modification and restoration project to protect our communities from wildfire risk while preserving this beloved natural treasure. I am also proud to author AB 2513, which expands wildfire prevention efforts to include the chaparral and shrubland ecosystems that define so much of Southern California's landscape. Thank you to every IRC volunteer and partner who shows up — season after season — to care for the land we all love.
Alzheimer's disease affects millions of Americans and touches countless families across our region — stealing memories, independence, and precious time. Recently, we met with Alzheimer's Orange County and advocates to discuss critical legislation and budget priorities that support those living with the disease, their caregivers, and their families. I am committed to fighting for the resources, funding, and policies that ease the burden on caregivers and ensure that no family faces this heartbreaking disease alone. Thank you to Alzheimer's Orange County for your powerful advocacy and for giving a voice to those who need it most.
Congratulations to the Orange County Wine Society and OC Fair & Event Center on the 50th anniversary of the OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition! It was a pleasure for us to present resolutions honoring this remarkable milestone to both organizations in recognition of five decades of celebrating the art of winemaking and showcasing exceptional wines from across California and beyond. The OC Fair Commercial Wine Competition is a cherished tradition that highlights the incredible talent and craftsmanship of our winemakers, and we look forward to many more years of this celebrated event. Cheers to 50 years!
Congratulations to Recoup Personal Training of Costa Mesa on their 15th Annual Push-Ups for Charity! Recoup is once again rallying the community to sweat for a cause — raising funds for the Boot Campaign, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting U.S. veterans and their families. Over the years, Recoup has raised nearly $300,000 for this incredible organization. What a wonderful example of a local business giving back and honoring those who have served!
Congratulations to the nearly 1,000 Irvine Unified School District seniors who earned the State Seal of Biliteracy this year — a remarkable achievement recognizing their proficiency in English and at least one additional language. This year's honorees demonstrated biliteracy across 14 languages, from Spanish and Mandarin to Arabic, Ukrainian, Hebrew, and American Sign Language, reflecting the rich diversity and exceptional academic excellence of our community. The Seal of Biliteracy, affixed to students' diplomas, is a powerful testament to the hard work of these graduating seniors and the dedicated teachers who supported them. Congratulations to the Class of 2026 on this outstanding accomplishment!
Congratulations to the Sierra Vista Middle School Science Olympiad team on earning back-to-back national championships at the 2026 Science Olympiad National Tournament! The team's remarkable achievement reflects the talent, dedication, and teamwork of these outstanding students, coaches, and families, while continuing Irvine Unified School District's tradition of excellence in STEM education.
Congratulations to the Irvine High School Girls Softball Team on capturing the CIF Southern Section Division 6 Championship! What makes this title even more remarkable is the journey — the team started the season at 1-11, battled back to earn a Pacific Coast League title share, and swept through the CIF playoffs to claim the program's first CIF-SS championship since 1991. This is a testament to the resilience, heart, and determination of every player, coach, and supporter who believed in this team. We are so proud of you — now on to the State Regionals! Go Vaqueros!
RESOURCES
Do you need help with a state agency or have a question about a state program? My district office team is here to help—whether it's navigating government services, resolving issues, or connecting you with the right resources. Contact us today!
The Orange County Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (OCIE SBDC) provides expert, no-cost advising and training to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed. Through one-on-one consulting, business owners can get guidance on marketing, operations, financial management, and accessing capital—tailored to their specific needs.
OCIE SBDC also offers workshops, resources, and ongoing support to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges, expand their businesses, and create jobs in our community. Whether you're launching a new idea or scaling an existing business, their team is a valuable partner every step of the way.
SCAM ALERT! The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is warning Californians about fake text messages and seeing social media ads with links that pretend to be from the DMV asking them to take action. DMV will never ask for personal or financial information by text. If you get one, don't open it or reply. Stay alert and protect your information.
The California Grants Portal is your one destination to find all grants and loans offered on a competitive or first-come basis by California state agencies. You can subscribe to email updates about all new grant opportunities and new grant opportunities in a specific category.
The State of California is trying to return approximately $13 billion to its rightful owners. Is some of it yours? If you've moved, changed addresses, or forgotten about an old account, some of it could be!
Unclaimed property includes things like inactive bank accounts, uncashed checks, insurance benefits, utility deposits, and investments. It does not include real estate. Check the State Controller's Office Database of Unclaimed Properties to see if the state may owe you money.
Protect Your Privacy with DROP! California residents can now use the state's free Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform (DROP) to request that registered data brokers delete their personal information and stop selling or sharing it. One request reaches hundreds of data brokers, helping reduce spam and protect personal data.
Summer is a time when many children might not have access to meals at school. This summer, California will send $40 per month in June, July, and August to each eligible school-aged child on a SUN Bucks card to buy groceries. Most eligible children will get SUN Bucks automatically, but some will need to apply. Children who get SUN Bucks can still get free meals at summer meal sites.
UPCOMING EVENTS
June 3 - Protect Yourself from Rental and Real Estate Scams
In today's competitive rental market, speed and urgency are often used by scammers to pressure hopeful tenants. Join the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) for a free webinar on June 3 at 1:00 p.m., to identify fraudsters to help make your housing search safe, secure, and successful.
June 6 - Costa Mesa Community Health Resource Fair
You're invited to a FREE Community Health Resource Fair on June 6 at Lions Park in Costa Mesa! Learn about community resources, apply for CalFresh and Medi-Cal, receive free health screenings, diapers and food distribution (while supplies last). No registration required.
June 7 - Tustin Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off
The 42nd Annual Tustin Street Fair and Chili Cook-Off will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event comes alive with a variety of exhibitors featuring crafters, community organizations, food and chili booths, and craft beers and wine. Live music and contests are featured on event stages and there is a Kids Fun Zone with games, bounce houses, and entertainment. Proceeds from the event are donated to local non-profit organizations and service groups whose members volunteer during the event.
June 13 - Harvest Solutions Farm Volunteer Event
Join me and Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County for a volunteer event at Harvest Solutions Farm in Irvine! Together, we will help harvest seasonal produce or plant crops so that our neighbors have consistent access to nutritious food, creating a foundation for community health and well-being. Register today!
June 13 - Costa Mesa Sanitary District Compost Giveaway & Shredding Event
The Costa Mesa Sanitary District invites customers to a free drive-thru shredding and compost giveaway event on Saturday, June 13, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Orange Coast College. This event is only available to CMSD customers. Proof of residency is required upon entry (such as an ID, utility bill, etc.).
June 17 - Residential Insurance Webinar
The California Department of Insurance invites you to join their free statewide webinar series designed to help consumers better understand important insurance topics. On June 17, the Department of Insurance will host a live webinar on residential insurance. Register today.
June 20 - Child Car Seat Safety Check-Up
In partnership with the California Highway Patrol, Costa Mesa Police Department, and City of Costa Mesa, we are hosting FREE car seat safety check-up event on Saturday, June 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Costa Mesa City Hall. Don't miss out on this opportunity to have your child's care seat checked by certified California Highway Patrol technicians.
June 27 - Older Adults Resource Fair
Join Irvine Councilmember Melinda Liu for the Older Adults Resource Fair on Saturday, June 27, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Portola Springs Community Center. The event will feature interactive workshops on senior nutrition, financial planning, and movement-based activities, creating an engagement environment for attendees while providing community partners the opportunity to connect directly with residents. Register today.
August 1 - Newport-Mesa Unified School District Back to School Kickoff Expo
Newport-Mesa Unified School District, in partnership with the Melinda Hoag Smith Center for Healthy Living and IKEA, invites families to a back-to-school event designed to connect you with helpful resources for school-aged children—all in one place. Students must be currently enrolled in NMUSD and have a student ID number to participate. Pre-registration is required; one applicant per household is sufficient. Register today.
