California Senate adopts Read Across America and Ramadan resolutions; confirms two gubernatorial appointees

SENATE, Sacramento — On March 2, 2026, the California State Senate adopted Senate Resolution 81, declaring March 2 as Read Across America Day, and Senate Concurrent Resolution 125, recognizing the start of Ramadan. The body also confirmed two gubernatorial appointees to state boards and offices.

Senator Lena Perez presented SR 81, saying Read Across America “is a day to celebrate the joy and benefits of reading,” and cited research and outreach efforts to stress literacy’s role in academic and personal wellbeing. Senators Choi and Rubio spoke in support, with Rubio urging volunteers and community partners to continue reading efforts in schools and libraries. The resolution passed on a roll call vote, ayes 37, noes 0.

The Senate then took up two gubernatorial appointments. The body confirmed Dr. Chris Thayer to serve as director of the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment; the reading noted her previous leadership roles at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and prior review by the Senate Rules Committee. The appointment passed on a roll call vote recorded as ayes 29, nos 2.

Senator Reyes presented Dr. Gina Castro Rodriguez for appointment to the Board of State and Community Corrections, describing her credentials as a licensed marriage and family therapist and an assistant professor at the University of San Francisco. That appointment was confirmed by voice/roll call with ayes 29, nos 0.

Senator Wahab introduced SCR 125 to honor Ramadan, calling attention to the holiday’s significance for California’s Muslim communities and urging colleagues to respect diverse faith practices. Senator Becker, speaking as vice chair of the Jewish caucus, described attending an Iftar and encouraged support for the resolution. SCR 125 passed unanimously, ayes 37, noes 0.

Procedurally, the Senate approved routine journal and file actions, and the presiding officer recessed the body with a subsequent afternoon session and the next regular floor day scheduled for March 5 at 9 a.m.

Votes at a glance

- SR 81 — Read Across America Day: Adopted (roll call) — ayes 37, noes 0. - SCR 125 — Ramadan recognition: Adopted (roll call) — ayes 37, noes 0. - Dr. Chris Thayer — Appointment as OEHHA director: Confirmed — ayes 29, nos 2. - Dr. Gina Castro Rodriguez — Appointment to Board of State and Community Corrections: Confirmed — ayes 29, nos 0.

The Senate recessed until an afternoon session; no further policy votes were recorded during the morning floor session.