Dear Neighbor,

As we return to the Capitol for the 2026 legislative session, I am stepping into the second year of this two-year session with great urgency and resolve, engaging in committee hearings, state budget negotiations, and advancing policies that directly impact our families. From immigration and housing to safety and ensuring our voices are heard at every level of government, I will not back down.

Standing with Minnesota and Immigrant Families

Too many lives have been lost to the inhumane cruelty being inflicted upon families in Minnesota, throughout the country, and here in our community. I strongly condemn this administration’s attempts to use fear and oppression to silence those who stand up against their unconstitutional actions and false narratives. This terror must end now, and we refuse to be silenced in the face of such systemic injustice and trauma. I continue to stand in firm solidarity with all Minnesotans and every individual impacted by these horrifying events. Read my statement here. 

New Legislation: Protecting Our Communities from Military-Style Immigration Enforcement

Today, at a press conference alongside Congressman Robert Garcia and state and local leaders, I announced new legislation to severely restrict the use of military-style weapons, specifically flashbang grenades and explosive breaching devices, in law enforcement operations. Senate Bill (SB) 937 comes as escalating immigration enforcement tactics cause serious risks and severe injuries in our communities. Find more information about SB 937 here.

Senate Approves SB 747, The No Kings Act

I am proud to co-author Senate Bill 747, the No Kings Act which passed the Senate on January 27 with a vote of 30-10. The bill will hold ICE, Border Patrol, and other federal officers accountable for violating the Constitution. It creates a right of action under California state law for violations of constitutional rights, so that individual plaintiffs will be able to bring a lawsuit for monetary damages against any federal, state, and local officer who violates their constitutional rights. Watch my remarks on the Senate floor, read my full statement, and learn more about the No Kings Act on my website. 

Supporting Our Immigrant Communities 

At the Capitol, I continue to advocate for our immigrant communities and the rights of all Californians. Recently, I met with the California Hotel and Lodging Association to discuss the use of local hotels by ICE, so we can ensure our community spaces are not being weaponized against our neighbors.

I also met with U.S. Senator Adam Schiff to discuss the vital intersection of state and federal policy, especially while the current federal administration enacts policies that target immigrant communities and cut federal funding for essential services. Our conversation centered on how we can collaborate to bring more federal resources to communities across the state. Having a strong partnership at the federal level ensures that the voices of SD 33 residents are heard in Washington D.C., and I look forward to our continued work together to improve the quality of life for all Californians.

My office continues to update our Know Your Rights resource page with the latest guidance, rapid response networks, and additional information. Remember, in California you can report misconduct by federal ICE or CBP agents to the California Attorney General. To file a report, go to: https://oag.ca.gov/reportmisconduct. 

Taking Action on Homelessness

This month, Team Gonzalez, volunteers, and service providers across our district participated in the annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, a critical effort to identify the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in our communities. This data is essential for securing the state and federal funding necessary to provide housing and supportive services. Over the past year, California has made record-level state investments in temporary shelters and permanent supportive housing which resulted in a 9% drop in unsheltered homelessness. My office remains focused on legislative solutions that prioritize housing and mental health resources to support our most vulnerable residents.

First Time Homebuyers Program, Dream for All (DFA)

The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) recently announced that the agency’s Dream for All (DFA) Shared Appreciation Loan Program will accept applications for down payment assistance from February 24, 2026 until March 16, 2026 at 5 p.m. This down payment assistance program is focused on helping first-generation homebuyers with up to 20% of the home purchase price or appraised value in down payment assistance. To ensure the equitable distribution of funds, the program will be using a random selection process. Among other eligibility requirements, borrowers will need to meet CalHFA’s Dream for All income limits, listed by county. For more information visit: https://www.calhfa.ca.gov/dream. 

New Tool: DROP Gives You More Control Over Your Data

California has launched the Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform (DROP), a free state service that allows residents to reclaim their privacy by requesting that over 500 data brokers delete their personal information and stop selling it. This secure tool helps significantly reduce spam calls and unwanted texts while lowering the risk of identity theft and fraud. Starting August 1, 2026, data brokers will be legally required to honor these requests and must continue checking for new submissions every 45 days. Operated by the California Privacy Protection Agency, DROP is a simple, no-cost way for individuals and caregivers to take back control of their digital footprint. For more information visit: https://privacy.ca.gov. 

Cudahy Community Water Meeting & Public Comment

Ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water remains one of my top priorities. My office has been actively responding to community questions and making sure residents’ concerns are communicated to our state water partners. As part of this ongoing effort, the State Water Resources Control Board recently held a public meeting to address water quality concerns raised by residents. If you were unable to attend, your voice can still be heard. You can submit written public comments by email at DDW-SoCalEngagement@waterboards.ca.gov or by mail: Saeeda Rafique at the State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, 500 N Central Avenue, Suite 500, Glendale, CA 91203.The deadline to submit public comments is February 16, 2026. 

For information on upcoming local events, LAUSD immigration and family preparedness resources, small business support, and more, visit our Resource Corner.

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