The AICP was among business and civic leaders from throughout California and across the country who gathered in Santa Barbara to welcome Senator Monique Limón following her recent inauguration as President Pro Tempore of the California State Senate. The event celebrated Limón’s historic ascent to Senate leadership and unique role in shaping statewide policy and economic opportunity.
This year, the AICP is ramping up its advocacy efforts in Sacramento to pass and enact a commercial production tax incentive program. A critical component of this effort is direct engagement with legislative leadership and, in particular, the chairs of key policy and fiscal committees where the proposal will be vetted and, ultimately, voted on. Meetings with these leaders are essential to familiarize them with our issues and concerns, address their questions, as well as to ensure our incentive program is aligned with broader legislative priorities and positioned for successful advancement through the committee process and onto the floor for a vote. As President Pro Tem, Senator Limón has authority over committee assignments for proposed legislation, vote scheduling, and overall priorities for the Senate that will be pivotal to the bill’s momentum and ultimate passage.
Senator Limón represents the 21st Senate District in Santa Barbara and parts of Ventura and San Luis Obispo counties. She is the first Latina, first woman of color, and first mother to lead the state’s upper chamber. As President Pro Tem, she leads the Senate’s legislative agenda and chairs the powerful Senate Rules Committee, positioning her at the forefront of policy debates on issues like the state’s budget, housing, climate, and labor priorities.
“I am proud to assume the role of President pro Tempore of the California State Senate at this critical time in our state and the nation’s history,” said Senator Limón. “I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to move California forward and address the issues impacting the almost 40 million people who call this state home.”
Speakers emphasized Limón’s pragmatic approach to governance, her collaborative leadership style, and her deep understanding of the economic and workforce issues facing California. Attendees also noted the importance of maintaining strong connections between Sacramento policymakers and the business communities that drive innovation and growth statewide.
The reception drew several members of the Senate’s leadership team, underscoring the significance of the occasion and the strong working relationships within the chamber. Among those in attendance were Senator Angelique Ashby of Sacramento, Senator Steve Padilla of San Diego, Senator Tim Grayson of Concord, and Senator Sabrina Cervantes of Riverside, each of whom joined in recognizing Limón’s new role and leadership responsibilities.