served as Gray’s expert witnesses in support of a bill, AB 1067, to designate the almond as the state’s official state nut.“These exceptional students began the school year studying all things California,” said Gray. “After learning about the numerous other state symbols that exist, they were surprised to find out that California lacks an official state nut. They wrote to me requesting introduction of this bill and came to Sacramento today to advocate for the passage of this legislation.”
Approximately 25 students made the trip to Sacramento. Each student testified in the Assembly Governmental Organization Committee of which Gray is the chairman. They were joined by representatives from the Modesto Nuts baseball team including team mascots Al the almond, Wally the walnut, and Shelly the pistachio.
“We should be very proud of California’s agricultural heritage and the important role nuts play,” said Gray. “We grow a large percentage of the world’s supply of nuts right here in California. It is very fitting that it is the kids growing up in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley who noticed the lack of recognition nuts receive. They see every day how vital the production of nuts is to their community and how many families depend, in some way, on the nut economy.”
After the students finished their statements, the committee heard testimony about the importance of California’s other commercial nuts; the walnut, pistachio, and pecan. With Wally and Shelly cheering, Gray and the students agreed each nut was worthy of recognition and decided to amend the bill to include all four.
“The more the merrier,” said Gray. “This is about highlighting the importance of agriculture and all of these nuts are worthy of recognition. Having this conversation today has made nuts the number one topic of conversation today at the Capitol.”
AB 1067 now moves on to the Assembly Floor for a vote in the coming weeks.
Source: Assemblymember Adam Gray
