City Expands Legislative Platforms to Include Disaster Response, Immigration Protections

Pasadena is expanding what it lobbies for in Sacramento and Washington, adding disaster relief priorities following recent wildfires while also opposing Trump administration policies that would condition federal funding on local cooperation with immigration enforcement.

The City Council’s Legislative Policy Committee reviews the revised platforms Tuesday, with final approval by the Council in full possible Feb. 9.

The federal platform now includes support for disaster aid beyond pandemic response, following wildfires and other natural disasters. City officials also added language opposing any federal attempt to condition funding on local cooperation with immigration enforcement, addressing actions taken during the Trump administration’s first year, according to the City Manager’s agenda report.

“Key legislative issues will continue to focus on affordable housing, public health, and climate change,” the report said.

The platforms now reach into new territory: copper wire theft prevention, library user data protections, hydrogen fueling infrastructure, and dedicated street repair funding. An entirely new economic development section backs federal Small Business Administration programs and Community Development Block Grants. The platforms also support maintaining funding for the Continuum of Care homeless program.

At the state level, officials added a dedicated section on Zone Zero regulations and their impact on Pasadena residents. Transportation priorities expanded to include automated speed enforcement, distracted driving reduction and e-bike regulation.

Climate provisions support building emission reductions and funding from penalties against polluters. Public health priorities now include cannabis education, reproductive health services and LGBTQ+ health access.

The platforms guide how Pasadena responds to legislation, allowing staff and lobbyists to act quickly without waiting for council approval. The City Manager’s Office monitors legislation year-round with departments and lobbyists. The platforms can be amended anytime if unexpected issues arise.

The committee meets at 5 p.m. Tuesday in City Council Chambers at City Hall, 100 N. Garfield Ave., Pasadena.