Dear Neighbor,

Today was a crucial deadline for the Legislature’s Appropriations Committees to decide the fate of bills with significant fiscal impacts. Bills that made it off the “suspense file” will now move forward in the legislative process, heading to a vote on the floor. With just a couple of weeks left until the end of the legislative session on August 31st, we are closer than ever to the finish line. I invite you to learn about my bills that are moving forward this year, which will soon face decisive votes determining whether they make it to the Governor’s desk to be signed or vetoed.

Senate Bill 1137, which I authored in 2022 to end neighborhood oil drilling and protect our communities from Big Oil pollution, is now being implemented by the California Geologic Energy Management Division (CalGEM). As part of this implementation, CalGEM has made available a form to collect public input on sensitive receptors. SB 1137 prohibits the issuance of well permits and the construction and operation of new production facilities within 3,200 feet of a sensitive receptor. Examples of sensitive receptors include residences, schools, community resource centers, health care facilities, live-in housing, or businesses open to the public. Continue reading to learn more about CalGEM’s implementation of the law and access the form to report a sensitive receptor.

Did you know there are state funds available for nonprofit organizations to bolster safety and security? This includes nonprofits at high risk for violent attacks and hate crimes due to their ideology, beliefs, or mission. The Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) will conduct webinars to provide applicants with technical assistance on the application requirements. Proposals must be received by Monday, September 23, 2024, at 11:59 PM (PDT).

Are you a high school student passionate about protecting the environment and ensuring a livable planet for future generations? We invite you to apply for our annual Youth Environmental Champions Program! In this program, you'll engage in a series of workshops, presentations, field trips, discussions, and various educational activities designed to empower you to create positive change in our communities. Topics include: saving our oceans, ending oil and gas pollution, understanding the history of pollution-burdened communities, lowering emissions from transportation, and much more! Best of all, the program is completely FREE for youth! Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to connect with my office and discover how you can make a difference in your community. Apply today!

Lastly, the City of Bell will be hosting a mental health webinar on August 20 to go over what mental health is, the categories of mental illness, and how they’re treated. Join this informative session to gain valuable insights, ask questions, and learn how to support mental well-being in our community.

As always, if you need any other information or assistance, please contact my office at (562) 256-7921 or send us a message here.