Memorial highways: Memorial Highway Signage Fund.

Senator Laird's proposal to establish the Memorial Highway Signage Fund within the State Treasury creates a dedicated funding mechanism for highway memorials honoring individuals who have promoted racial and gender equity in California.

The fund would draw from multiple revenue streams, including state General Fund appropriations, private donations, and federal funding sources. While the Department of Transportation would maintain responsibility for installing memorial signage, the bill requires legislative appropriation before any expenditure from the fund. This provision applies specifically to memorial designations that have already received legislative approval.

The measure builds upon the Department of Transportation's existing authority over state highways by providing a targeted funding source for memorial signage, while maintaining legislative oversight through the appropriations process. The fund's structure allows for both public and private contributions toward recognizing historical figures who advanced equity causes through permanent highway markers.