Dear Neighbor,

Wishing you and your loved ones a happy and safe Fourth of July as we celebrate our nation’s independence and 250th anniversary. This is a time to gather with family, friends, and neighbors, while also recognizing that recent fires, air quality concerns, and escalating federal immigration actions have deeply impacted families across our region. We hold immigrant families in our hearts who are unable to celebrate together this year and all Californians whose rights, dignity, and sense of stability have been shaken over the past year and a half. As we celebrate, let’s stay safe, use caution around fireworks, and remain united in care and support for our communities.

Safety First This Fourth of July

As we head into the Fourth of July holiday, I encourage you to visit our Fireworks Events and Resources page, which has information on fireworks displays across the Los Angeles region. The page also includes fire safety guidance, reporting information, and tips from local and state agencies to help keep our communities safe. Please note that in many areas, including Long Beach, Signal Hill, and unincorporated LA County all fireworks including those marked "safe and sane" are prohibited, and enforcement is in place to protect residents and first responders. Please check your local restrictions and have a fun, safe, and enjoyable holiday weekend.

Bill Updates

I was proud to speak in support of AB 2349 during a recent Senate Environmental Quality Committee hearing. This bill would strengthen emergency air monitoring and improve coordination during fires, industrial accidents, and other emergencies that affect air quality. Recent hazardous incidents across our region, including the Lineage warehouse fire, underscore the need for stronger regional coordination to protect public health, especially in smaller cities like those in Southeast Los Angeles in Senate District 33.

Several of my bills also recently advanced through key Assembly policy committees, bringing them one step closer to becoming law. This includes SB 937, which passed the Assembly Public Safety Committee. The bill would restrict the use of flash-bangs and explosive breaching devices in our communities. These military-style weapons have been used by federal agents during immigration enforcement operations, putting children, families, and community members at risk. This type of policing does not belong in our communities. Watch my remarks on SB 937 in Public Safety Committee. 
 

Resources Available for Residents Impacted by Lineage Warehouse Fire

Although firefighters have contained the Lineage warehouse fire, air quality impacts may continue across Los Angeles County, including areas of Southeast Los Angeles. Residents are encouraged to stay informed, sign up for emergency alerts, and take steps to protect their health. Eligible residents may also apply for a portable air filtration unit through the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), available on a first-come, first served basis. For more updates and resources please visit our Lineage Warehouse Fire resources page.

East Los Angeles Oil Spill Update

The cleanup response to the crude oil spill caused by damage to an underground pipeline near Eastern Avenue has been completed after crews met all cleanup goals on June 22. Response teams cleaned and inspected nearly 19,000 feet of storm drains, and now the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board will oversee longer-term remediation efforts related to the incident. Affected wildlife will continue to receive care at the Los Angeles Oiled Bird Care and Education Center until there are no incident-related animals remaining in care. The investigation into the cause of the spill is ongoing. For more information and resources, please visit the LA County East LA Oil Spill Resource Page.

Governor Newsom Signs 2026-27 State Budget 

On June 29, Governor Newsom signed the 2026-27 state budget, delivering in partnership with the Legislature a spending plan with zero deficit that protects Californians while maintaining the state's long-term fiscal stability amid continued economic uncertainty and that protects vulnerable communities from assaults on the state. Access the recent announcement and a summary of the state budget, here.

Birthright Citizenship Upheld 

The Supreme Court recently ruled to uphold birthright citizenship, a longstanding constitutional right for children born in the United States. Read my full statement on this landmark decision, here.

Upcoming Events, Resources & More

Visit our resource corner for information on free summer events, food assistance programs, LA28 ticketing and volunteering opportunities, 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