Dear Neighbor,

This year marks 100 years of Black History Month, a century of honoring the extraordinary contributions, leadership, and lasting impact of Black leaders, families, and culture that have shaped our nation and strengthened our communities. Throughout this month and every day, we are proud to uplift the leaders, advocates, and changemakers in our district whose work continues to inspire progress and empower future generations.

Black History Month Spotlights 2026

In 2026, Black History Month marks 100 years of national observance, an important milestone that invites us to reflect on the legacy, impact, and continued importance of honoring Black history and excellence. This year, I am proud to recognize eight outstanding community members as part of our Black History Month Spotlights. These individuals were nominated by the community for their leadership, service, and commitment to uplifting others. From educators and artists to organizers and mentors, each spotlight reflects the powerful impact of local leaders whose work strengthens our communities and creates opportunities for the next generation. Learn more about them on our BHM 2026 Spotlights page! 

New Bills Introduced!

In the past couple of weeks, I introduced several new bills to address important concerns for Senate District 33 and California, including public safety, consumer protection, responding to federal immigration enforcement, and more. 

• SB 1279: This bill will make our streets safer by allowing the City to launch a speed camera pilot program on the Pacific Coast Highway in Long Beach.

• SB 1332: This bill responds to the inhumane actions of federal immigration agents by banning anyone who was employed by ICE between January 20, 2025 and January 20, 2029 from working for the state.

• SB 1052: This bill will help people with intellectual and developmental disabilities access services if a member of their family or support system is detained, deported, or no longer able to help.

• SB 1146: This bill will create more transparency in advertisements about health products by requiring advertisers to disclose the use of artificial intelligence.

• SB 1349: This bill creates a process to review major tax expenditures benefitting corporations and provide information about the impacts on funding for state programs.

• SB 1211: This bill would streamline the process for investigating post-conviction claims of factual innocence.

I look forward to providing more updates on these bills and my 2026 legislative package as the year continues. For more information, visit the legislation page on my website.
 

Standing in Solidarity Against Racism

Senator Lena Gonzalez Speaks in Support of Senate Resolution 77 on the Senate Floor & Condemns Racist Rhetoric from the White House

Recently, I voted in support of Senate Resolution 77 (Weber Pierson) which passed the Senate. The resolution condemns the offensive rhetoric posted on President Trump’s social media account, which promoted harmful racist tropes. We must not stay silent as our communities are disparaged. We must continue to call out every instance of racism, discrimination, and intolerance. Listen to my full remarks here.

Scholarship Opportunities: FAFSA & CA Dream Act

If you or someone in your household is planning to attend college, now is the time to apply for financial aid. Completing the FAFSA or the California Dream Act Application (CADAA) opens the door to thousands of dollars in grants, scholarships, and financial assistance that do not need to be repaid. The priority deadline for the FAFSA and CADAA is March 2, 2026. Many scholarship programs use these applications to determine eligibility, including state-funded aid and institutional scholarships. We encourage all students to complete their applications as soon as possible to maximize the support available to them. For more information, please visit our resource corner.

California Earned Income Tax Credit

Tax season is here, and many families may qualify for the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), the Young Child Tax Credit, or the Foster Youth Tax Credit. These programs provide direct cash back to lower-income Californians and can result in refunds worth thousands of dollars. Checking your eligibility and filing a return could make a significant difference for your household this year. For more information and free tax preparation resources visit https://www.caleitc4me.org. 

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