Assembly adopts resolution declaring January Positive Parenting Awareness Month after debate over wording

The California State Assembly on Jan. 16 adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution 14 (ACR 14) designating January as Positive Parenting Awareness Month.

Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez, the resolution’s author, said the effort “comes together today to recognize, celebrate, and mark January as positive parenting awareness month across the great state of California,” and described the work of parent‑support programs in strengthening family relationships. “Please join me today in voting in favor of this resolution,” Rodriguez said.

The resolution prompted a brief floor exchange over language in its whereas clauses. Assemblymember De Maio declined to add his name as a coauthor, saying some whereas clauses contained “politicized and divisive language” that he could not support and arguing the Legislature should use unifying, accurate language. Several other members voiced support for the resolution and praised programs that provide prenatal care, early childcare investments and transitional kindergarten as ways to bolster parents’ ability to care for children.

The clerk opened the roll for coauthors and recorded 70 coauthors. The Assembly then took a voice vote; the clerk announced “The ayes have it. The resolution is adopted.” Assemblymember Rodriguez later introduced guests from Triple P (an evidence‑based positive parenting program) and Foothill Family that work in her district.

Members supporting ACR 14 described it as a symbolic recognition aimed at elevating parenting supports and did not indicate the resolution itself creates or allocates specific funding streams. The measure was adopted by voice vote and will be filed in the Assembly journal.