Governor Newsom Will Decide Fate of Tristan's Bill
The governor has until September 30 to sign or veto legislation aimed at improving safety on Highway 74.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Legislative Policy
Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez and the family of the late Tristan Samuel Bourgeois are advocating for the passage of AB 1145. Known as Tristan's Bill, the legislation addresses commercial truck safety on Highway 74 and currently awaits action from Governor Gavin Newsom.
Why it matters
The bill seeks to implement specific safety recommendations derived from a Riverside County study to prevent future tragedies. It follows the death of 27-year-old Tristan Samuel Bourgeois, who was killed in a truck crash on the highway in 2024.
AB 1145, also called Tristan's Bill, was amended during the legislative process to specifically require the state to implement recommendations from a Riverside County study regarding Highway 74.
The players
Governor Gavin Newsom
He is the current Governor of California who holds the authority to sign or veto pending state legislation.
Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez
He is a member of the California State Assembly who serves as the author of Assembly Bill 1145.
Tristan Samuel Bourgeois
He was a 27-year-old individual whose death in a 2024 truck crash on Highway 74 inspired the legislative efforts known as Tristan's Bill.
The details
Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez authored the legislation to address significant safety concerns regarding the operation of commercial trucks along Highway 74. The bill reflects a collaborative effort to codify findings from local safety research into state policy.
Timeline
Tristan Samuel Bourgeois died in a truck crash on Highway 74 in 2024.
Governor Gavin Newsom must sign or veto the legislation by September 30, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents or skeptics of the bill often raise concerns regarding the state-level mandates placed on local infrastructure projects, citing potential budget constraints. These stakeholders frequently argue that such requirements should remain under the jurisdiction of local transportation authorities.
If signed into law, the bill will mandate the implementation of new safety protocols on Highway 74. Residents and frequent commuters in the area can expect potential changes to commercial vehicle traffic patterns intended to improve roadway safety.
The takeaway
This legislation demonstrates how local safety studies can be elevated into state law to address specific regional hazards. Residents should monitor the official governor's action calendar to see if these safety recommendations become mandatory requirements.
What happens next
Governor Gavin Newsom is scheduled to sign or veto AB 1145 by September 30, 2026.
Further reading
For more on state policy changes, visit the Legislative Policy section.
More information
To communicate your stance on pending legislation, visit the Governor's office public contact form.
