January 26, 2026

A new year brings new committee assignments in the California State Legislature, and Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón (D–Santa Barbara) has announced her leadership team and committee chairs for the year ahead. Committee chairs play a critical role in the legislative process, serving as key gatekeepers with the authority to advance or halt legislation. 

Several influential committees will see new leadership this year. Senator Sabrina Cervantes (D–Riverside) will chair the Senate Appropriations Committee, while Senator John Laird (D–Santa Cruz) will serve as Chair of the Budget Committee. San Diego legislators will also hold several prominent committee leadership roles. Senator Catherine Blakespear (D–Encinitas) will continue as Chair of the Environmental Quality Committee, Senator Akilah Weber Pierson (D–San Diego) will lead the Health Committee, and Senator Steve Padilla (D–San Diego) will serve as Chair of the Insurance Committee.