SB 1048 Clears the Senate Education Committee
SB 1048 (Becker), the landmark legislation to establish a California Seal of Climate Literacy, was passed unanimously with bipartisan support by the Senate Education Committee, moving the bill one step closer towards becoming a reality for California's students!
In her testimony, Dr. Ingrid Roberson, Chief Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction, said
“The State Superintendent of Public Instruction is proud to support SB 1048. Every sector—from agriculture to technology to healthcare to manufacturing to tourism—must contend with a changing climate and transition to a resilient and sustainable future. Our students deserve a credential that reflects their readiness for that future, and the CDE is ready to provide that.”
The Seal of Climate Literacy provides an important framework for California students to gain the essential skills needed to navigate a climate-changed future. It is co-sponsored by the California State PTA, Ten Strands, Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action, and UndauntedK12.
In his testimony, State Senator Josh Becker, SB 1048's author, said
“This voluntary program for LEAs gives schools the flexibility to implement this diploma distinction in a way that is best for their communities while maintaining consistent statewide recognition. Climate change remains one of the defining issues of our time and we must prepare future generations to meet it. Students are increasingly interested in climate-related careers but lack structured opportunities to deeply engage in that while in school. This bill creates an accessible pathway for students to build that knowledge.”
As of the hearing on April 8th, we mobilized more than 600 supporters across the state - including 93 students, 95 educators, 120 parents, and 140 organizations. Their voices are proving that climate literacy is foundational for the resilience, career readiness, and active leadership of the next generation. Let’s keep building on this momentum!
What’s Next?
SB 1048 now moves to the Senate Appropriations Committee. This is a key opportunity to highlight the lasting value and necessity of climate-ready education, and we need your help.
Share this post with 3 additional people and request their sign on to SB 1048. We are looking especially for school district leaders, students, and teachers from diverse geographies across the state.
Reach out to your local school district and ask them to support SB 1048 (here is a template letter and guidance to get you started!)
Share our posts on LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky, and X, and tag your representatives, letting them know why you want to see a California Seal of Climate Literacy.
