Tristan’s Bill Advances with Bipartisan Support in Sacramento

Assemblyman Jeff Gonzalez of Indio announced that Tristan’s Bill has officially passed the California Assembly Transportation Committee with bipartisan support.

The bill is named in memory of Tristan Bourgeois, a 27-year-old La Quinta resident who was tragically killed in October 2024 after a crash involving a big rig on Highway 74 near Vista Point in Palm Desert.

Tristan’s Bill directs Caltrans to conduct a comprehensive safety study of Highway 74 and other similarly hazardous roads throughout California. The legislation addresses longstanding concerns over semi-truck traffic on narrow, winding roads, as well as ongoing issues related to dangerous conditions and limited law enforcement presence.

“This bill is a major step toward making some of California’s most dangerous mountain highways safer for everyone,” said Gonzalez. “We owe it to families like Tristan’s to take serious action.”

Highway 74, often referred to as the “Palms to Pines Highway,” has a history of severe crashes, particularly in stretches with sharp turns and steep drop-offs. Advocates and residents have long called for increased oversight and safety measures on the route.

Tristan’s Bill will now move to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

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