Press Releases

February 14, 2024

“The Climate Resilient Schools Act will help protect our students and frontline communities from the adverse impacts of the climate crisis while simultaneously addressing the crisis itself,” said Majority Leader Gonzalez (D-Long Beach). “It is a timely opportunity we simply cannot miss, especially as our state benefits from federal funds that can be utilized to construct sustainable schools, minimize pollution, and ensure our students remain healthy and safe as they learn, despite the challenges posed by climate change. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature as the bill progresses through the legislative process and into committee hearings in the upcoming weeks.”

February 08, 2024

“I am deeply honored to be appointed as the new Senate Majority Leader alongside Pro Tem McGuire. Through my nearly five years as a Senator representing Long Beach and Southeast Los Angeles, my top priority has been to uplift the voices of all Californians through meaningful legislation, especially for our most underserved communities.

I look forward to this new opportunity to serve the diverse and dynamic Democratic caucus members who will continue to deliver on the progress we’ve built together on the environment, healthcare access, housing, equity, justice, and beyond. Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to Pro Tem Mike McGuire for providing me this opportunity to partner with him as we strive to make California a better place for all.”

February 05, 2024

“Equitable access to healthcare for all communities, including our Latino and Indigenous communities, is extremely important,” said Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach). “The Latino and Indigenous Health Disparities Reduction Act acknowledges the unique hurdles these communities face and offers a solution to help improve their health outcomes. SB 1016 will update our state health data to reflect the diversity of our communities and ensure that no one is left behind."

February 05, 2024

“El acceso equitativo a la atención médica para todas las comunidades, incluidas nuestras comunidades Latinas e Indígenas, es extremadamente importante”, dijo la Senadora Lena González (D-Long Beach). “La Ley de Reducción de las Disparidades de Salud de Latinos e Indígenas reconoce los obstáculos únicos que enfrentan estas comunidades y ofrece una solución para ayudar a mejorar sus resultados de salud. El Proyecto de Ley SB 1016 actualizará nuestros datos de salud estatales para reflejar la diversidad de nuestras comunidades y garantizar que nadie se quede atrás".

January 22, 2024

Long Beach, California – La Senadora Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) emitió la siguiente declaración en apoyo a la histórica huelga de todo el sistema de los miembros de la Asociación de Profesores de California (CFA): 

"Como alumna orgullosa de la Universidad Estatal de California en Long Beach, me solidarizo con los miembros de la Asociación de Profesores de California (CFA) que actualmente están en huelga en los campus de la Universidad Estatal de California (CSU, por sus siglas en inglés), abogando por salarios equitativos y mejores condiciones de trabajo y aprendizaje. El cuerpo docente y el personal de nuestro estado desempeñan un papel crucial en el fomento de la creatividad, la impartición de conocimiento y la inspiración de los estudiantes para que se conviertan en futuros líderes de nuestra economía, que es la cuarta más grande del mundo, gracias a los esfuerzos de todos los trabajadores de nuestro estado. He hablado directamente con la Canciller García durante el fin de semana y la insté a negociar de buena fe y extender un contrato justo a los profesores de CSU, brindándoles los salarios, beneficios y condiciones laborales que merecen. CSU puede hacerlo mejor por estos dedicados educadores, sus familias y nuestros estudiantes".

January 22, 2024

Long Beach, Calif. – Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) released the following statement in support of California Faculty Association (CFA) Members’ historic systemwide strike: 

"As a proud alumna of California State University, Long Beach I stand in solidarity with the California Faculty Association (CFA) members who are presently on strike at California State University (CSU) campuses, advocating for equitable pay and improved work and learning conditions. The faculty and staff of our state play a crucial role in nurturing creativity, imparting knowledge, and inspiring students to become future leaders in our economy, which is the fourth largest in the world, thanks to the efforts of all workers across our state. I have talked to Chancellor Garcia directly over the weekend and urged her to bargain in good faith and extend a fair contract to the CSU faculty, providing them with the salaries, benefits, and work conditions they deserve. CSU can do better for these dedicated educators, their families, and our students."

January 10, 2024

Sacramento, Calif. – Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) released the following statement regarding Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2024-25 state budget:

“As anticipated by earlier budget analyses, the current fiscal year will present some challenges. Now that the Governor's budget proposal has been released, we will continue the discussion in the Legislature to ensure we protect our progress and maintain investments in critical services, programs, and priority areas necessary for safeguarding the health and well-being of all Californians.

December 08, 2023

Long Beach, Calif. – On December 8, 2023, Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) presented $3.5 million in funds to support the preservation of historical sites Rancho Los Alamitos and Rancho Los Cerritos in the City of Long Beach. Senator Gonzalez advocated for the funds to be allocated as part of the 2023 fiscal year state budget. The allocation of funds will serve to address several key aspects, notably public safety concerns, accessibility improvement, and restoration of historic ranch buildings and gardens. The Ranchos are situated on lands historically inhabited by the Gabrielino-Tongva indigenous community. As historically significant regional treasures, the Ranchos help promote cultural and environmental awareness through accessible programming for students, families and all visitors.

“I am proud to lend my support for the preservation of Long Beach’s cherished landmarks, Rancho Los Cerritos and Rancho Los Alamitos,” said Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach). “This funding will provide our communities with better access to beautiful outdoor spaces and historical buildings, and educational resources, where visitors can learn firsthand about our state's history and the importance of environmental stewardship.”

December 07, 2023

Sacramento, Calif. – On Thursday, December 7, 2023 Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) released the following statement regarding the Legislative Analyst’s Office latest report on California’s fiscal outlook for 2024-25:

“As we begin discussions for a new budget where we will likely face significant challenges, our top priority must be to safeguard investments in critical services, essential programs, and priority areas that benefit the health and wellbeing of all Californians. With strong budget reserves and various potential tools at our disposal, I am confident in our ability to maintain a balanced, thoughtful, and responsible budget. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues in the Legislature and the Governor's Administration to identify and implement the necessary solutions for the benefit of the Californians we represent.”

December 06, 2023

Sacramento, Calif. –Senator Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) released the following statement regarding the $3.1 billion in grant funding for continued progress on the country’s first electrified 220-mph high-speed rail system. The funds were awarded to the California High-Speed Rail Authority (Authority) by the US Department of Transportation: