Dear Neighbor,

This weekend we celebrate Independence Day, an important day in the history of our country representing hope for a better future for all and a reminder to continue our work toward a more inclusive, equitable, and just future for all.

At the Capitol, the Legislature passed SCA 10, a constitutional amendment to give voters the opportunity to explicitly add the fundamental right to abortion and contraceptives to the state constitution, as well as the 2022-23 State Budget which includes $9.5 billion in direct tax refunds for Californians. I am also proud to report that this year, I was able to secure $267.2 million in dedicated funds for local Senate District 33 projects!

In the District, we celebrated Pride and Juneteenth, participated in the City of Vernon’s job fair, and met with community members to talk about expanding resources for seniors, tackling food insecurity, creating jobs, the state of the economy, and my 2022 legislative package.

Kids 6 months and older are now eligible for COVID-19 vaccines, guidance is available on what to do if you experience monkeypox symptoms, and LA County has a list of professional fireworks shows for those interested in celebrating this weekend.

Happy Independence Day

• As we celebrate Independence Day, this year I am reflecting on the work we have ahead of us, to ensure that our country not only has a history representing equity, freedom, and justice for all—but a future that upholds and protects those sacred rights. Let us recommit with a stronger resolve than ever before, to achieving a better tomorrow full of hope and possibilities, just as our country envisioned two hundred forty-six years ago when the Declaration of Independence was officially signed.
   

News from the Capitol

• This year, as part of the 2022-23 State Budget, I helped secure $267.2 million in dedicated funds for local Senate District 33 projects! Here is what those projects include:
  • $2 million for a Florence-Firestone Technology Career Incubator site
  • $5 million for the Clara Park Renovation Project in Cudahy and the Maywood Riverfront Park Renovation Project
  • $5 million to the City of Signal Hill for the renovation of the outdoor amphitheater
  • $5.2 million to the City of Long Beach for the Wrigley Greenbelt restoration and Multi-Service Center expansion and improvements
  • $250 million to Lynwood Unified School District for the re-building of Lynwood High School
• The SCOTUS decision on June 24, which overruled federal constitutional protections regarding the right to abortion was beyond devastating. In California, abortion care is still legal and as State Senator, I will fight every day to ensure we remain a Reproductive Freedom State. I am pleased to share that in light of this news, the California Legislature took swift action and passed SCA 10—a constitutional amendment I co-authored to put the explicit the fundamental constitutional right to abortion and contraceptives in California on the ballot this November.
• On the evening of June 29, the Legislature passed the 2022-23 State Budget putting California’s wealth to work. The agreement, now on its way to the Governor’s desk to be signed into law, makes responsible and historic investments in Pre-K through K-12 education, higher education, infrastructure, climate and energy, housing, health access, and resources for reproductive health care.
• The State Budget contains $9.5 billion in direct tax refunds to Californians! Visit my Facebook or Twitter for a quick overview on how the relief program works and how much you could qualify for.
• While I am deeply disappointed that SB 1173 was not set for a hearing, I remain committed to the necessary and ongoing fight against the impacts of climate change on our state, & especially communities disproportionately impacted in my district. Read more about what happened with SB 1173 here.
• On the brighter side, my bill SB 972 to create a more equitable food economy that enhances health and food safety and includes street food vendors, passed Assembly Health Committee on June 28 with a 12-1 vote!

In the District

• On June 10, I visited the Weingart Senior Center in Lakewood to learn first-hand about free programming and resources for seniors and to discuss how we can continue to support seniors in our community. I also met with the Southwest Regional Council of Carpenters to talk about jobs and the state of the economy.
• On June 11, our office provided state resource information and helped during the food and supplies giveaway in Walnut Park!
• Team Gonzalez celebrated Juneteenth across the District at events like Change Makers’ Juneteenth Celebration at MLK Jr. Park in Central Long Beach and “Legacy & Literacy” at the Burnett Library which houses the African American Resource Collection curated by the African American Heritage Society of Long Beach, since1997.
• On June 23, it was a pleasure to join the City of Vernon’s Job Fair, every time someone got a job offer or an interview, they rang a bell and everyone in the crowd applauded! 
• On June 24, I provided a legislative update at the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce 2022 Economic Forum and that same day, we also had the pleasure of being a part of the first-ever SELA Pride Festival!
• On June 25, our office recognized father and daughter artist team Eric and Kayleen Rauseo who have been using their creative talents for awareness of food insecurity throughout the community. We are so proud of their dedication!

Kids 6 Months+ Are Now Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccines

• After extensive clinical trials, the vaccines are proven to be safe and effective in protecting children ages 6 months and up against COVID-19. Infants and toddlers receive a smaller dose of the vaccine, and it is recommended that they are vaccinated against COVID along with their other regular vaccinations. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines, talk to your child’s doctor or visit VaccinateALL58.com. 

What to Do if You Have Symptoms of Monkeypox

• Although the sudden emergence of monkeypox can be alarming after two years of living through the COVID-19 pandemic, monkeypox is not a new virus and does not spread in the same way as COVID-19. The current risk of getting monkeypox is low. If you have symptoms of monkeypox or COVID-19, isolate from others and contact a health care provider right away. To learn more about monkeypox and how you can protect yourself and others, go to: http://sn.cdph.ca.gov/monkeypox

Celebrate Safely this 4^th of July

• To best protect your family and community, attend a professional fireworks show. The Los Angeles County Fire Department encourages families to attend a public fireworks show conducted by State-licensed pyrotechnicians. Please click here to see a list of professional fireworks shows in Los Angeles County or call the Fireworks Hotline at (888) 654-FIRE (3473).

Top Social Media Posts

Check out my top social media posts below! Remember to follow me @SenGonzalez33 on FB and Twitter for legislative updates, resources, events and much more!

As always, if you need any other information or assistance, please contact my office at (562) 256-7921 or send us a message here. Happy Independence Day!
 

Sincerely,

Lena Gonzalez
33rd State Senate District