Senate Memorial 12 requests that the General Services Department, the Department of Transportation, and the State Parks Division of the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department identify and recommend a public location to honor the life and work of social justice and civil rights advocate Andres "Dre" Arellanes, who passed away in 2023. Arellanes was a prominent figure in advocating against unlawful police violence and for reforms in law enforcement use-of-force policies, particularly following a personal incident in 2007 where he was subjected to excessive force by law enforcement. His advocacy contributed to significant reforms at local, state, and national levels, influencing the United States Department of Justice's investigations into police practices and leading to changes in international guidelines for law enforcement.
The memorial emphasizes the courage and impact of Arellanes and his family's efforts in promoting social justice, which have likely saved lives and inspired reforms worldwide. It calls for the identification of a suitable location, such as a state park or landscaped area, to serve as a lasting tribute to Arellanes' contributions. Additionally, the memorial mandates that copies be sent to relevant departments and the legislative finance committee to facilitate the process of commemoration.