I hope your summer is off to a great start! Welcome to the first edition of our quarterly newsletter. As your California State Assemblymember, I aim to inform you about my work in the community and what's happening at the Capitol in Sacramento.
The State Assembly, one of two bodies in the California Legislature, works with the State Senate to create laws for California. I represent about half a million residents in Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties. I spend weekdays in Sacramento and weekends in our community.
Serving Assembly District 28 is a great honor, and I am dedicated to addressing the needs of our residents. I hope this newsletter keeps you updated on what is happening in our community.
In this update:
Happening in the Community
Special Olympics Northern California
I was honored to recognize the athletes of Special Olympics Northern California recently. At their annual "Bocce Bash" in Los Gatos, I joined George Kittle of the 49ers and JT Marcinowski of the Earthquakes to advocate for inclusion and unity through sport. It's a privilege to support such a worthy cause!
Service Providers Tours
We have outstanding nonprofit service providers in Assembly District 28. I met leaders from West Valley Community Services, which provides housing and food services, and toured Sacred Heart Community Services, which fights poverty in San Jose. These organizations are crucial for low-income and unhoused individuals and families.
Pride in Assembly District 28
I attended Santa Cruz Pride and the Pride flag raising in Morgan Hill. These celebrations foster unity and remind us of the importance of love and equality.
Women of the Year
I want to highlight the fantastic Women of the Year of AD 28. Their leadership and contributions are making a significant impact.
Banana Slug Art Contest
I held a Banana Slug Art Contest to showcase local artists and promote my bill to make the Banana Slug California's state slug. Congratulations to 11-year-old Lillian from San Jose for winning first place! The bill (AB 1850) passed the Assembly and is now in the Senate.
Giant Dipper Anniversary
I had a blast celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Giant Dipper at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which has always been a beloved part of the Santa Cruz community. The Giant Dipper, operating since 1924, is the fourth oldest coaster in the U.S. and one of the top ten oldest in the world. Amazingly, this iconic ride has thrilled generations for a century!
Leadership Morgan Hill
I welcomed Leadership Morgan Hill to the Capitol. This program equips individuals with the skills to drive change and has been instrumental in shaping Morgan Hill's future.
District Events
I've been hosting various events in AD 28, including Paws and Policy at dog parks, Community Conversations at community centers, Hike a Trail with Gail, and Taking Care of Business walks through local business districts.
Legislative Update
This legislative session has been exciting, and I'm proud of the impactful work my staff and I have done. I introduced 17 pieces of legislation this year. Here are four bills currently in the State Senate:
- Deepfake Disinformation (AB 2839): Prohibits the distribution of AI-generated deepfake content intended to mislead voters about elections or candidates, addressing the critical issue of election security.
- Daycare Pool Safety (AB 2866): Introduces safety standards for home daycares with pools, including fencing, pool covers, alarms, and regular inspections, in response to last year's tragic drownings in San Jose.
- Housing for Farmworkers (AB 3035): Expands eligible areas for farmworker housing development in Santa Clara and Santa Cruz counties to address housing shortages.
- Supporting State Parks (AB 2103): Expedites the process of acquiring state park land in AD 28, aiding Big Basin Redwoods, Año Nuevo, and Butano State Parks in protecting wilderness areas.
- Rental Application Fees (AB 2493): Prevents property management companies from charging rental application fees when no rental unit is available.
I also serve on various legislative committees and caucuses dealing with issues from elections to mental health. For more information on all my bills and committees, visit my website.
California Budget Overview
The State Legislature is addressing a significant budget deficit. Here's a summary of where we are and what's happening:
- Process: The Governor leads the budget process, proposing drafts and signing the final budget. The Legislature reviews and revises proposals to reflect community values.
- Timeline:
- January: Governor Newsom proposed an initial budget with a deficit of $38-$58 billion.
- February-March: I met with community leaders to discuss the impact on Assembly District 28 and emphasized protecting our social safety net was a top priority.
- April: The Legislature passed AB 106, reducing the deficit by $17 billion through new revenue and delayed funding.
- May: Governor Newsom's revised budget included spending cuts and using reserves to balance the budget while maintaining core services.
- June: The Assembly and Senate send the governor a revised budget restoring key funding areas. The Legislature must approve the budget by June 15, and the new fiscal year starts July 1.
- Balancing the Budget:
- Techniques include delaying future spending, using reserves, and making program cuts. Governor Newsom plans to cut 260 state-funded programs, including scholarships and workforce development.
- Across-the-board cuts of about 10% ensure no single area bears the brunt of the deficit.
- My Thoughts:
- Balancing the budget should not burden our most vulnerable. While avoiding general tax increases, we must make difficult decisions to adopt a balanced budget.
- Areas facing cuts include housing, homelessness, and the environment. I am working to minimize these impacts.
For more detailed information, visit the California Budget and Policy Center or follow California's budget expert, Jason Sisney.
Upcoming Events
July 4:
Care Fair:
- SAVE THE DATE for the inaugural Care Fair on September 14, focusing on mental health. Nominate a mental health hero. More event details will be forthcoming.
District Events:
- Engage with me at these various upcoming events:
For the latest information, visit my website.
Let's Talk
Did you know my office is a one-stop shop for state information and services? As your representative, I'm here to help with issues involving state agencies like the DMV, state tax board, and unemployment insurance.
We also recognize community leaders and achievements with Certificates of Recognition and can attend events. To submit a meeting request, click here.
If you need assistance or have questions, visit my CONTACT portal or call one of the district offices below.
- San Jose Office: (408) 264-2848
- Santa Cruz Office: (831) 425-1503
Resources
CalKIDS
CalKIDS provides savings accounts for newborns and eligible low-income public school students, with up to $1,500 from the state for higher education.
SUN Bucks
This program gives $40/month to children qualifying for free or reduced lunches during the summer without affecting citizenship applications.
Older Adult Resources
California's Department of Aging offers many resources for older adults, people with disabilities, and family caregivers.
Crisis Lifeline
Calling 9-8-8 is a crisis lifeline similar to 9-1-1, offering 24/7 free and confidential support for individuals in distress or thinking about suicide.
Thank you for reading! I hope you found this newsletter helpful and learned something new. I'm grateful to serve as your State Assemblymember.
I hope you get outside this summer, enjoy the nice weather, spend time with loved ones, and relax! With everything going on, it's essential to take a deep breath, take care of yourself, and check in on your mental health.
Thanks, and be well,
Gail Pellerin
Assemblymember, District 28
