Dear Neighbor,

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, excitement is building across our region and bringing our local and global communities together. We are also looking ahead to the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, which will showcase the diversity and energy of our region while bringing athletes from around the world to one stage. For those interested in getting involved, LA28 will soon begin accepting applications for its Games-time volunteer crew, with plans to recruit 60,000 people with different strengths and skills to help bring the Games to life. Be sure to check out the details and get ready to apply!

This month, we recognize Juneteenth and National Immigrant Heritage Month, with many events taking place across our region. We are also proud to celebrate our 2026 Pride Honorees for their meaningful service and lasting contributions to our communities.

At the Capitol, the Legislature passed a state budget by the June 15 legislative deadline, that protects core programs and keeps Californians at the center of our state’s priorities. I also recently introduced new legislation to strengthen transparency, protect immigrant communities, and honor the farmworkers whose labor and advocacy have helped shape California. Together, we will continue working to uplift our communities, protect our shared values, and build a stronger future for Senate District 33.

Apply To Be a Games-Time Volunteer Starting July 14

Interested in being part of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games? You can apply for Games-time volunteer opportunities beginning July 14, 2026! The LA28 volunteer program offers opportunities to support one of the world’s largest sporting events while helping welcome visitors from around the globe.

In addition, volunteer opportunities are already available now ahead of LA28, supporting local sustainability, restoration, and community projects. Visit our LA28 Information page to learn more about all volunteer opportunities and the latest LA28 updates. 
 

Protecting Park Access

On June 16, my Senate Bill 1268 passed its first Assembly policy committee hearing unanimously with an 11-0 vote. SB 1268 would make the Outdoors for All initiative state law, helping ensure California continues to expand outdoor equity, improve access to parks and outdoor recreation in disadvantaged communities, and support park facilities and programming. By putting this initiative into law, we can help protect this progress and preserve access to outdoor spaces for future generations.

As we continue this work, California State Parks is inviting public feedback on the draft application guide for a $188.5 million grant program to help communities create and improve parks. This funding was made possible through Proposition 4, the 2024 Climate Bond, which I was proud to co-author and champion. Public comments are due by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 26. For more information or to share your input, please visit the California State Parks page.

Pride Month Spotlights
 

This Pride Month, we are thrilled to recognize our Senate District 33 2026 Pride Honorees! These individuals and organizations have shown outstanding leadership, advocacy, and service, making a lasting impact on our communities. Through their dedication to advancing equality, creating inclusive spaces, and uplifting LGBTQ+ residents, they help build a more welcoming, supportive, and vibrant Senate District 33. Learn more about our amazing 2026 Pride Month Honorees, here.

Senate Passes the Legislative Version of the Budget 

On June 15, the California State Senate passed the Legislature’s version of the 2026-27 state budget. In the face of significant federal funding reductions, the Legislature is working to protect essential services that our most vulnerable communities depend on. The Senate and Assembly will now continue negotiations with the Governor to reach a final budget agreement, including through additional hearings. The Governor has until June 29 to sign the final budget. To learn more, please visit the Legislative Budget page.

Detention Facility Transparency Act

On June 12, I introduced Senate Bill 423, the Detention Facility Transparency Act, to improve public access to information about conditions in private detention facilities in California. SB 423 would expand the California Public Records Act to require local agencies to release records related to 911 calls and other calls for emergency services from these facilities, helping the public and local and state officials better understand reports of civil rights violations, alleged crimes, or inhumane conditions. The bill also includes safeguards to protect crime victims’ identifying information and active investigations. Conditions at detention facilities are raising concerns in California and across the nation – with reports of deaths, inhumane conditions, medical neglect, mistreatment, and more. That is why SB 423 is crucial to bringing greater transparency to how these facilities operate in our state. To learn more about this bill, please read our SB 423 Press Release.

Designating August 6 as Farmworkers Day

I have also introduced new legislation as Chair of the California Legislative Latino Caucus to redesignate Farmworkers Day from March 31 to August 6. SB 1394 takes the next step in ensuring our state appropriately commemorates the entire farmworker movement and recognizes the workers who sustain our vital agricultural industry and honors the sacrifices they made to fight for better wages and working conditions. To learn more, access the SB 1394 fact sheet.

Assistance Available for Businesses Impacted by the East Los Angeles Oil Spill

Los Angeles County is providing direct assistance to businesses impacted by the May 22 East Los Angeles crude oil spill. The County's Office of Small Business is offering free one-on-one support to help business owners document losses, prepare claims, and navigate the submission process. Impacted businesses in East Los Angeles and Southeast Los Angeles are encouraged to contact the Office of Small Business for assistance and information about available resources by calling the OSB phone line at (844) 432-4900, visiting OSB’s East LA Entrepreneurship Center located at 4716 E. Cesar E. Chavez Ave., or emailing osb@opportunity.lacounty.gov.

Upcoming Events, Resources & More

Visit our resource corner for information on free summer events, food assistance programs, changes to CalFresh, and more.

As always, if you need any other information or assistance, don't hesitate to get in touch with my office at (562) 256-7921 or send us a message here. 
 

Sincerely, 

Lena Gonzalez
33rd State Senate District