December 2019 Newsletter
As the Senator representing the 33rd district, I am proud to share with you our latest e-newsletter that highlights the hard work accomplished in my first 6 months of office. I invite you to stay engaged in our quarterly newsletters as they will offer an effective way to keep you informed about the work we do in Sacramento and upcoming issues affecting all our cities—Bell, Bell Gardens, Cudahy, Huntington Park, Lakewood, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Lynwood, Maywood, Paramount, Signal Hill, South Gate, and Vernon.
Last June, I was sworn-in to represent the 33rd Senate District in the California State Senate. I am honored to work on your behalf to support families, fight for our environment, and ensure everyone in the district has economic opportunities to thrive.
Senator Gonzalez being sworn into office by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, with her husband Adam and son Zorion.
In my first six months in office, my team and I have worked tirelessly to address constituent concerns and advance community priorities in the district, and I voted on key legislation that will have a positive impact on our residents. I am excited to introduce new legislation and organize community events in the coming year.
One of my first acts as Senator was to join my colleagues in voting on the State Budget, bringing critical resources to the state and district. We secured $2.4 billion for housing & homeless services, $1 billion for emergency preparedness, a $600 million expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit for working families, and almost a half-billion dollars toward early childhood education—all while retaining nearly $20 billion in reserves for the future.
Additionally, as a member of three important Committees—Judiciary, Health, and Joint Legislative Audit—I was proud to support monumental pieces of Legislation that will expand access to free community college throughout the state, provide more Medi-Cal coverage for our residents who need it most, and protect families and small business owners from predatory loans.
While we have been busy with legislation in the Capitol, we have been equally active throughout the district resolving constituent issues, meeting with local groups, and helping organize events to assist constituents in every community districtwide.
Here are a few highlights from the district events and programs that my office has proudly hosted and attended this year:
We hosted the 6th Annual Dia de los Muertos celebration in the city of Long Beach, an event I started while Councilwoman for Long Beach’s 1st District. Hundreds of community members came out to enjoy the altars, entertainment, and vendors.
As a mom of three boys, one of my top legislative priorities is to advocate for women and children. I partnered with ReadyNation, First 5 LA, and the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce on an event connecting business leaders with early childhood education providers, and I will continue to support educational and childcare resources for our community members.
Senator Gonzalez meeting with early childhood education providers.
Senator Gonzalez presenting certificates to graduates from the Parent Leadership Academy.
Additionally, through partnerships with the State Treasurer, local Chambers of Commerce, and City leaders, I have had the opportunity to meet with dozens of small business owners, to hear firsthand how we can support their efforts and grow our local and regional economies.
Senator Gonzalez with Congresswoman Roybal-Allard, Paramount Mayor Tom Hansen, Paramount Councilwoman Brenda Olmos, and leaders from the Paramount Chamber of Commerce.
Senator Gonzalez with State Treasurer Fiona Ma.
Over the past six months in office, we have toured amazing health centers throughout the district; celebrated the groundbreaking of many public art projects, parks, libraries, and school facilities; and met with countless community leaders and organizations. Every meeting, event, and tour fills me with pride to represent the great 33rd Senate District, and we will continue to plan signature events to strengthen community ties in the 33rd Senate District.
Senator Gonzalez with local artists and education leaders for the unveiling of a new mural at Washington Middle School.
Senator Gonzalez reading to a student at the Escalante Early Education Center in Cudahy.
In addition to our community outreach, I have had the privilege of meeting with our local leaders and organizations to discuss the legislative needs and priorities of the district. I convened a meeting with our City Managers where we talked in depth about the need for strong leadership on the issues of housing and homelessness, and we have been working closely with our organizational partners in the area to lead on the issues of trade & transportation, sustainability, early childhood development, and public health.
As we look to the next Legislative year, please join my District team at the following community meetings to get more information about my legislation and policy priorities:
- Tuesday, January 7: Coffee with the Lynwood Mayor Aide Castro
- Wednesday, January 8: Bixby Knolls Neighborhood Association Meeting
- Wednesday, January 15: Willmore Neighborhood Association Meeting
- Stay tuned for our District Office Open House early next year…
I am very excited about what Team Gonzalez is planning for 2020, and I look forward to continuing to work on your behalf in the California State Senate. Please check my website and social media accounts to stay up-to-date on what we are planning for the coming Legislative year!
Thank you, and have a great holiday season!