Senator Durazo Honored as AARP California’s Legislator of the Year for 2025

AARP California is proud to announce that Senator Maria Elena Durazo has been named its 2025 Legislator of the Year in recognition of her outstanding advocacy for California’s family caregivers. Senator Durazo’s leadership was instrumental in authoring SB 590, a landmark bill that expands paid family leave (PFL) to include “designated persons”—also known as “family of choice”—ensuring that all Californians, regardless of traditional family structure, can care for loved ones facing serious illness.

With 4.4 million family caregivers in California providing 4.1 billion hours of care annually, Senator Durazo’s work addresses the evolving needs of families and acknowledges the vital role caregivers play in long-term services and supports. Her legislation is especially significant for aging Californians without children or spouses, and for the LGBTQ community, where non-traditional family relationships are common.

State Director Michael Murray expressed deep appreciation for Senator Durazo’s commitment: “Senator Durazo’s vision and dedication have brought real change to California families. Her work on SB 590 ensures that no one is left behind, and that every caregiver—regardless of family structure—has the support they need. We are grateful for her tireless advocacy and proud to honor her as our Legislator of the Year.”