Lena Gonzalez – California State Senator for the 33rd District

Bill to Address Health Disparities for Latino and Indigenous Communities: Gonzalez introduced Senate Bill 1016, The Latino and Indigenous Health Disparities Reduction Act on Feb. 5. If passed, the bill would require that the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Department of Social Services (DSS) collect and analyze comprehensive health data focusing on Latino and Indigenous communities. 

This initiative is influenced by the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on these communities, with Latinos and Indigenous Mesoamericans experiencing higher rates of infections and deaths in California compared to the general public. 

“It behooves us to build the infrastructure needed to better reach and serve our Latine and Indigenous Mesoamerican communities. Without the data, it’s nearly impossible for decision-makers to adequately prioritize equitable funding for solutions to new and ongoing health crises,” Gonzalez said in a public statement.

Appointment to California Senate Majority Leader: Gonzalez was appointed to the role of Senate Majority Leader on Feb. 8. Her new responsibilities will include keeping the rest of the democratic caucus abreast of legislative tasks for each day, as well as scheduling business on the senate floor. 

Climate Resilient Schools Act: Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) has put forth Senate Bill 1182, known as the Climate Resilient Schools Act, aiming to fortify California’s schools against climate change impacts, while lowering their greenhouse gas emissions. 

The bill mandates the California Energy Commission (CEC) to craft a comprehensive Master Plan, addressing sustainability and resilience in school infrastructures. This initiative seeks to engage stakeholders, tackle policy gaps and ensure equitable resource allocation. In a public statement, Gonzalez said the bill is influenced by the disproportionate impact of climate change on low-income communities and students of color. 

The proposed legislation is set for further deliberation in upcoming committee hearings.

Opportunity 4 All Act: Gonzalez stated her support for Assembly Bill 2586, which would allow all students, regardless of immigration status to work on-campus jobs while enrolled in the University of California, California State University, and California Community College systems.

“I proudly stand in support of AB 2586 Opportunity for All, alongside the thousands of students enrolled across our state’s higher education public campuses who are still left out and told they have no right to gainful employment,” said Gonzalez in a public statement.

“Every student should have equitable access to employment opportunities at California’s public college campuses, regardless of their immigration status. The Golden State’s robust economic position as the fifth largest economy in the world is significantly shaped by the remarkable skills and dedication of a diverse workforce, which includes our undocumented students.”

Read it on the Signal Tribune, here.