California will get a new state symbol if a proposal passes the state Senate and receives the governor’s signature later this year.
Introduced by Republican Assemblywoman Diane Dixon, AB 2504 would establish a state seashell, adding to a list of dozens of existing state symbols such as the state mammal and the state flower—the grizzly bear and the golden poppy, respectively.
Ms. Dixon proposed in February establishing the black abalone as the official state seashell. The bill unanimously passed an Assembly vote in April and was sent to the Senate Governmental Organization Committee the following month, where it also passed unopposed.
It did not reach the Senate for a floor vote before the Legislative summer recess, which started on Independence Day.
“Acknowledging the Black Abalone as an endangered state seashell, will not only bring forth much needed attention to the coastal conservation efforts but, connect these official symbols with the rich Native American history in our state,” Ms. Dixon said in a recent Senate bill analysis.
Black abalone shells were once used as trade currency by Native American tribes along some routes in Southern California, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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“This is a fun bill designed to offer an educational purpose while encouraging Californians to learn more about our beautiful coastline and fragile sea life,” Ms. Dixon said in a February press release.
State symbols can be used on flags or official seals to celebrate the state’s resources or unique attributes.
