In The News

A state senator presented checks in the amount of more than $14 million dollars to promote park rehabilitation, inclusive workforce development and health and wellness services in Long Beach.

Sen. Lena A. Gonzalez, D-Long Beach, handed out $14.5 million in state budget discretionary funds to the city of Long Beach, Centro CHA Inc. and TCC Family Health.

By Lena Gonzalez

By HAYLEY MUNGUIA 

A new fiscal year begins in California on Thursday, July 1, and it appears several projects in Long Beach will benefit from a fresh round of state funding.

The state Legislature approved a budget for fiscal year 2021-22 earlier this week that includes more than $20 million for parks, community centers, health clinics and more in Long Beach. Gov. Gavin Newsom had not signed the budget as of 5 p.m. Wednesday, but officials appear confident the local funding will get his seal of approval.

By Sebastian Echeverry

MacArthur Park in Central Long Beach could see a renovated sports field and expanded playgrounds thanks to an infusion of millions of dollars in state funding approved by the California Legislature this week.

The $14.5 million also includes money for a new health and wellness center in Cambodia Town and a center to assist business owners in the area.

Councilwoman Suely Saro, who represents the area, said the investment is rare and would improve the quality of life for residents.

SACRAMENTO — Senator Lena A. Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) in collaboration with over forty environmental justice advocates and community members, fought over the last few months on a significant bill, Senate Bill (SB) 342. Unfortunately, on June 3, the bill was sent to the inactive file for this legislative year and made into a two year bill due to pressures from Big Oil.

By Rachel Bluth

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Even as most states are trying to make it harder to get an abortion, California could make it free for more people.

State lawmakers are debating a bill to eliminate out-of-pocket expenses like copays and payments toward deductibles for abortions and related services, such as counseling. The measure, approved by the Senate and headed to the Assembly, would apply to most private health plans regulated by the state.

By Lena Gonzalez 

Securing continuous funding to invest in broadband infrastructure in poorly served communities will create jobs and provide economic opportunities.  

California can narrow the digital divide by investing in 21st century infrastructure, updated internet speed standards, and above all, equitable broadband deployment. The global pandemic has underscored the importance and urgency of this civil rights issue. California should commit to ensuring all communities have the technology needed to participate fully in our society, our economy and our democracy. 

Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) and Senator Lena A. Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) have led a group of 17 members of the California Legislature in calling upon the governor and legislative leadership to support a major investment in broadband infrastructure and service for Californians without reliable, affordable internet.

The effort comes as the governor considers adjustments to his January budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2021-22 in the annual “May Revision.”