Larry Klein
Mayor
Richard Mehlinger
Vice Mayor
Alysa Cisneros
Councilmember
Murali Srinivasan
Councilmember
Linda Sell
Councilmember
Charlsie Chang
Councilmember
Eileen Le
Councilmember
May 20, 2026
T
he Honorable Dawn Addis
California State Assembly
1021 O Street, Suite 4120
Sacramento, CA 95814
R
E: Assembly Bill 2134 (Addis): City council members: absences without permission – SUPPORT
D
ear Assemblymember Addis:
O
n behalf of the City of Sunnyvale, we want to express our support of Assembly Bill 2134, which establishes important and equitable protections for city councilmembers who need to take parental leave by ensuring that parental leave will not count toward absence limits that could otherwise result in a councilmember losing their seat, and prohibits cities from denying or requiring public approval of such leave. These provisions address a gap in existing law, as elected officials are not covered by traditional workplace protections such as the California Family Rights Act.
A
s noted in the committee analysis, current law can force councilmembers to choose between their public service and caring for a new child. In Charter cities like Sunnyvale, changing existing local law can be costly and often requires voter approval. AB 2134 provides a thoughtful solution by protecting both the ability of elected officials to serve and their right to privacy.
S
unnyvale strongly supports policies that make public service more accessible and inclusive. Ensuring that individuals can serve in elected office without sacrificing their ability to care for their families is essential to fostering diverse and representa tive local leadership. AB 2134 helps remove barriers that may discourage individuals from seeking or continuing in public office.
A
B 2134 is consistent with the City’s existing policy framework, including Council Policy 7.2.20 regarding reasonable accommodation for Council and Board and Commission members. This reflects the City’s broader commitment to fairness, accessibility, inclusion, and ensuring individuals can effectively serve the public. AB Attachment 6
The Honorable Dawn Addis, State Assembly
May 20, 2026
2134 advances those principles by supporting elected officials who need to take parental leave while continuing to fulfill their public responsibilities. Establishing consistent statewide standards that apply to Charter cities will provide clarity for cities, and a timely and cost-effective path to support elected officials in this policy arena.
For these reasons, the City of Sunnyvale supports AB 2134 and thanks you for your leadership in advancing policies that support families and strengthen public service.
Please do not hesitate to contact me or Rebecca Moon, City Attorney at [email protected] with questions.
Sincerely,
Larry Klein
Mayor
cc: Senator Dr. Aisha Wahab
Assembly Member Patrick Ahrens
City Council
Tim Kirby, City Manager
Rebecca Moon, City Attorney
Sarah Johnson-Rios, Assistant City Manager
Attachment 6