SACRAMENTO (October 1, 2024) – Today, Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) celebrated the signing of Assembly Bill 2504 into law.
AB 2504 recognizes the Black Abalone as the California State Seashell! The shell of the Black Abalone has great historical significance and was used by Native American tribes for food, trade, jewelry and ceremonial regalia. In the 1980’s, the shell was almost completely eliminated from our shores by Withering foot syndrome in Southern California after an El Niño event. Since then, the Black Abalone has been considered an endangered species.
“I am proud AB 2504 is now law!” said Assemblymember Dixon. “I have nearly 40 miles of the Orange County coastline in my Assembly District, and this measure encourages all Californians to help protect our beautiful shore. People come from all over the world to explore our beaches and learn about the ocean and marine life. This special designation and historical recognition of the Black Abalone as the California State Seashell will highlight our precious, natural resources.”
In honor of this new law, Assemblymember Dixon filmed a short video about the tide pools in Laguna Beach and the importance of protecting organisms like the Black Abalone. Check out a highlight of the film here: https://youtu.be/E34hik3TUnA