Relative to Taiwan.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Steve Choi and 1 co-sponsor

California Senate expresses support for Taiwan and encourages strengthened non-binding ties in trade, technology, education, and public engagement.

Read. Adopted. (Ayes 37. Noes 0.)

Summary of SR 117 (Session 2025-2026) – Relative to Taiwan

Purpose and intent

SR 117 is a Senate resolution recognizing and expressing the sense of the California Senate concerning Taiwan.

The resolution is non-binding (a ceremonial/official expression rather than a statute) and serves to articulate the Legislature’s position on matters related to Taiwan, including its status, relationship with the United States, and related policies.

Key provisions and changes

Formal recognition or statements: The resolution typically acknowledges Taiwan as a democratic society with shared values (such as democracy, human rights, and the rule of law) and affirms the U.S.-Taiwan relationship in various aspects (economic, security, cultural, or diplomatic).

Policy alignment: It may call for continued or enhanced cooperation between the State of California and Taiwan in areas such as trade, investment, education, technology, public health, and cultural exchange.

Legislative intent statements: It often urges federal policy considerations or commends Taiwan’s contributions to global issues and regional stability.

No prescriptive or regulatory effect: As a concurrent or joint resolution, it does not create new laws or impose regulatory requirements on state agencies or residents.

Who or what would be affected

State agencies and operations: The resolution itself does not create new mandates; it signals legislative intent and may influence how state officials engage in diplomacy, economic ties, and public messaging regarding Taiwan.

Stakeholders benefiting from broader U.S.-Taiwan cooperation: Businesses, educational institutions, researchers, and nonprofit organizations engaged in California–Taiwan exchanges may see a favorable policy signal.

General public: While not imposing requirements, the resolution communicates California’s stance and may affect public perception of U.S.–Taiwan relations.

Procedural and timeline details

Introduction and referral: Introduced May 27, 2026, and referred to the Committee on Rules, Legislative, and something similar (RLS) for initial consideration.

Committee action: Passed from the committee to third reading as of June 3, 2026.

Floor action: Ordered to special consent calendar on June 16, 2026, indicating a streamlined floor consideration.

Final passage: Read and adopted on June 18, 2026, with a recorded vote of Ayes 37, Noes 0, indicating unanimous bipartisan support on the Senate floor.

Sponsorship

Primary/Co-sponsors: Co-sponsors include Steve Choi and Jerry McNerney, signaling cross-party and/or coalition support for the Taiwan-related topic.

Context and implications

As a non-binding resolution, SR 117 primarily serves to express the California Senate’s views and to symbolize solidarity and partnership with Taiwan.

It may influence ongoing dialogues between California and Taiwan and contribute to the broader policy environment supporting Taiwan’s democratic status and international engagement.

The resolution complements other state and federal efforts to sustain and expand ties with Taiwan in areas such as trade, technology, education, and public health.