The California State Senate on May 5 adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 23, declaring May 5 California Peace Officers Memorial Day and honoring peace officers who died in the line of duty. The chamber approved the resolution by a unanimous vote (Ayes 38, Noes 0).

The resolution, presented by Senator Umberg, named Officer Matthew Bowen (Vacaville Police Department, end of watch 07/11/2024), Deputy Alfredo M. Flores (Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, end of watch 04/20/2024), Officer Austin Christopher Machitar (San Diego Police Department, end of watch 08/26/2024), Officer Chad E. Swanson (Manhattan Beach Police Department, end of watch 10/04/2023) and Officer Terry D. Long (El Monte Police Department, end of watch 08/22/2004). “For the greatest love of all is a love that sacrifices all,” Senator Umberg read as part of his remarks honoring the officers and their families.

Why it matters: Senators said the resolution recognizes the sacrifices families and communities endure when officers are killed in the line of duty and highlights the Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony and related family support organized by the California Peace Officers Memorial Foundation.

Debate and remarks: Multiple senators spoke in support. Senator Richardson recalled a local officer killed in 2000 to underscore the personal toll on communities. Senator Archuleta described family members in law enforcement and the strains of long patrol distances in rural areas. Senator Rubio and Senator Wahab recounted interactions with affected families and first responders to emphasize both community loss and the trauma officers face in service.

Outcome and next steps: The Senate adopted SCR 23 by voice/roll-call with all voting members recorded as “Aye.” After adoption, Senator Umberg introduced guests from the California Peace Officers Memorial Foundation and delegations from Santa Ana, including municipal officials and police association leaders who were present in the gallery.

The resolution is ceremonial (a concurrent resolution) and does not create a new program or appropriation. The Senate recorded the memorialization and recognized families and organizational representatives at the Capitol and at the Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony earlier in the day.