SACRAMENTO – California Gov. Jerry Brown has named former Assemblymember John Laird as secretary of the Natural Resources Agency.

Laird was one of the first openly gay elected officials to serve in the state legislature.

The agency is responsible for preserving the state’s natural resources, something that is a passion of Laird’s.

During his tenure in the legislature, Laird spearheaded several vital pieces of legislation barring discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, including the Civil Rights Housing Act of 2006.

“Equality California is delighted to congratulate John Laird, who has an exceptional track record as a tireless public servant committed to bettering our state,” said Geoff Kors, Equality California executive director.

“His appointment is a source of tremendous pride for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Californians, and we wish him the best in his new position.”