On October 9, 2018, Council adopted a Legislative Advocacy Position Policy to establish clear guidelines for advancing City goals and positions through legislative review and advocacy at the regional, state, and federal levels of government and to provide guidance for City officials who serve on regional, state, and national boards, committees, and commissions when they are asked to review public policy matters and issues.

The guiding principles for legislative advocacy include and are not limited to:

1. Support the League of California Cities and National League of Cities positions on priority bills that benefit Santa Clara.
2. Protect local revenue sources and prevent unfunded mandates.
3. Protect and/or increase funding for specific programs and services.
4. Protect and/or increase local government discretion.
5. Advance approved policies such as the City’s Statement of Values, the General Plan, or the Climate Action Plan.

Legislative Advocacy Positions are adopted annually or updated by the Council at the beginning of the calendar year to identify specific legislative priorities outside of the legislative guiding principles listed above.

Council Adopted the following 2024 Legislative Advocacy Positions:

• Broadband, Cable Services, and Wireless Telecommunications Facilities
• Community Services
• Emergency Management
• Energy Legislation, Regulations and Issues
• Housing
• Human Resources and Public Sector Employment
• Public Safety
• Regional Issues and Collaboration
• Sustainability and Environmental Protection
• Transportation Issues
• Water Supply and Conservation

Legislation and issues of interest are brought to the City’s attention through several means: the League of California Cities, the National League of Cities, the Cities Association of Santa Clara County, Council Members, city staff, citizens, and professional or governmental organizations and legislators. All legislation or issues of interest will be referred to the City Manager’s Office.