Last week I was joined by several tribal chairpersons, including Chairman Robert Smith of the Pala Band of Mission Indians, and Chairman Bo Mazzetti of the Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians when I spoke in support of ACR 17, which formally proclaims September 22nd Native American Day in California.  On that day, tribal members from throughout the state and legislators from both parties will meet on the south steps of the Capitol to celebrate tribal history, culture and sovereignty.

Have you ever seen people out there throwing colorful discs in some of our local parks?  If you’re not familiar with the sport, I encourage you to take a look at Disc Golf. I am hoping to name August as “Disc Golf Month” each year in California.  Here’s why:

California should be doing more to help small business succeed.  Last week a ceremony at the County Administration Building sponsored by the Cook Alliance and Institute for Justice celebrated Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKOs), established under Assembly Bill 626 in 2018, legislation I strongly supported.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), along with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), recently approved a demonstration project in California to provide pre-release services and improved access to care for persons being released from jails and prisons.

Ensuring the well-being of all animals is one of my big priorities. Over the years I have introduced and supported bills that provide funding to care for native wildlife, protect wild horses and burros, limit unnecessary animal testing, and many more.

Bills that made it through the Senate and Assembly by the “House of Origin Deadline on June 2nd must pass a final floor vote by September 14, when we adjourn for the year. Approximately 1100 bills are currently pending in both houses and the Governor will have until October 14 to sign or veto everything that reaches his desk.

Local fire departments are essential for public safety. By responding rapidly to wildfires and other emergencies, they save countless lives. Ensuring they have the means to perform this critical task has been a big priority for me in Sacramento.

Human trafficking is the second largest and fastest growing illicit industry, after drug trafficking. Worldwide, it’s estimated that there are over 40 million victims of human trafficking. 75% are women and girls, 25% are children.

During the pandemic, the Employment Development Department (EDD) virtually collapsed, and legislative offices like mine stepped into the breach. My office alone handled over 3,000 unemployment cases.

California’s $310.6 billion budget for the new Fiscal Year was approved in mid-June. Trailer bills that make specific funding allocations for state agencies and programs are receiving approval and in many cases are still under review. As often happens, politically expedient wants are often placed above essentials. For example, spending plans still include $4.2 billion for the high-speed rail boondoggle.