Dear Neighbor,

This month, as Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, I was proud to recognize incredible Latino trailblazers from many fields during our Latino Spirit Awards at the State Capitol.

And this week, the Governor released the May Revise, an updated proposal of the state budget as negotiations continue ahead of next month’s final budget deadline. We also recently wrapped up “Suspense Week,” when bills with fiscal impacts are reviewed by the Appropriations Committee, and I’m proud to share that several of my bills successfully moved forward.

Another important deadline is quickly approaching — the deadline to register to vote, which is May 18 for the June 2 Primary Election. I’ve included helpful voting resources and frequently asked questions below to help you make your plan to vote and make your voice heard!

24th Annual Latino Spirit Awards 

As Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, it was an honor to host the 24th Annual Latino Spirit Awards this year at our state capitol. The Latino Spirit Awards honor prominent Latinos in the fields of business, higher education, advocacy, health and science, human rights, journalism and media, environmental justice, entertainment, culinary arts and philanthropy. Established in 2002, The Latino Spirit Awards take place each year at the State Capitol in Sacramento to coincide with the state’s celebration of Cinco de Mayo and to recognize inspirational figures in the Latino community. Read all about our amazing 2026 Latino Spirit Award honorees, here. And view pictures from the Senate and Assembly Floor ceremonies, here.

Senator Lena Gonzalez with Los Tigres del Norte and Senate President pro Tempore Monique Limón during the Senate Floor ceremony for the 24th Annual Latino Spirit Awards at the California State Capitol
 

Governor’s 2026-27 May Revise

The May Revise is an updated budget proposal released by the Governor each year on May 14. It provides a clearer picture of California’s projected revenues and proposed spending priorities based on the latest economic and fiscal data. The process began in January with the first version of the budget by the Governor, and the Senate budget proposal and Assembly budget proposal have also been issued. Negotiations between the Senate, Assembly and Governor’s office will continue through the end of June. Under California law, the Legislature must pass a final budget bill by June 15 at midnight, and the Governor must sign the final budget before the new fiscal year begins on July 1. You can read my statement on the May Revise here and the full May Revise budget proposal at: https://ebudget.ca.gov/home.  

My Bills Advancing to the Senate Floor for a Vote

Recently, we wrapped up “Suspense Week” when bills with fiscal impacts are reviewed by the Appropriations Committee. I am proud to share that several bills from my legislative package have successfully advanced and are now headed to the Senate Floor for a vote before the May 29 legislative deadline. If passed by the Senate, these bills will move to the Assembly for consideration in policy committees, bringing them one step closer to becoming law. You can read the latest updates, fact sheets, and summaries about my bills at https://sd33.senate.ca.gov/legislation. 

Get Vote Ready for the June 2nd Primary Election

The June 2, 2026 California Primary Election is quickly approaching, and now is the time to make sure you are registered and ready to vote if you haven’t already. The deadline to register to vote for the upcoming election is May 18, 2026, and the California Secretary of State’s office began mailing vote-by-mail ballots to all active registered voters on May 4. In addition to voting by mail, you can vote early in person, return your ballot at a secure ballot drop box location, or vote at your local polling place on Election Day. For more information on voter registration, ballot tracking, polling locations, and important election deadlines, visit the California Secretary of State website or review the Voting FAQ my office has compiled which includes language access resources, information on support services for voters with disabilities, and ballot drop box locations and vote centers in Senate District 33. 

Long Beach Renter Aid Program

If you are at risk of losing housing, the Long Beach Renter Aid Program can help. This program provides short-term financial assistance for up to six months or $9,000 per household to low-income renters in Long Beach who are at risk of losing their homes. Assistance may be used to cover overdue rent, utility bills, moving expenses, and security deposits for eligible residents in Long Beach. Residents can apply online or receive in person assistance at the Long Beach Multi Service Center Monday through Thursday or the Long Beach Housing Authority on Fridays. The next round of applications is scheduled to open Friday, June 5, 2026, through Friday, June 12, 2026. If an applicant is not selected to proceed – applicants will be allowed to reapply the next month. For more information, please visit the Long Beach Renter Aid Program website. 

Cambodian New Year Celebration

I had the honor of joining the Los Angeles County Cambodian Employees Association (LACCEA) for their annual Cambodian New Year celebration. It was a beautiful evening highlighting the work that the group does to support Cambodian culture and traditions throughout LA County and featured a stunning fashion show. A very special congratulations to the Cambodian Health Professionals Association of America (CHPAA) on being honored. Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous Khmer New Year!

Senator Lena Gonzalez with Councilwoman Dr. Suely Saro and attendees at the LACCEA Cambodian New Year Celebration

Upcoming Events, Resources & More

Visit our resource corner for Mental Health Awareness Month resources, SD 33 Pride Month Nominations, summer scholarship opportunities, Shoemaker Bridge ramp closure updates, and more.

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