ATKINS BILL TO RESTORE LOCAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING SET ASIDE PASSES

(Sacramento) The California State Assembly today passed AB 1229, authored by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins.  The bill restores the ability of local governments to use inclusionary zoning to increase the availability of rental housing for low and moderate income residents and addresses uncertainty and confusion created by a 2009 appellate court ruling that the state’s rent control law, the Costa-Hawkins Act, prohibits such programs for rental housing.  AB 1229 overturns this ruling.

“Inclusionary zoning is a critical tool that has provided affordable homes to over 80,000 Californians.  My bill gives local governments a green light to continue using this tool without fear of conflicting with state law,” says Atkins.  “Affordable housing is critical to both communities and families because it enables workers to live near where they work, even in high cost parts of our state.”

Inclusionary zoning is a land use practice through which local governments require new housing developments to include a specified percentage of units that are affordable for low and moderate income residents.  These policies have been in use for over 40 years, but were challenged in the case of Palmer/Sixth Street Properties L.P. v. City of Los Angeles.  In Palmer, the court held that the provision of Costa-Hawkins which gives developers, and not government, the right to establish initial rental rates applies to privately financed rental housing projects and voids many inclusionary housing policies.  At least 140 California cities and counties have some form of inclusionary housing policy.  Many of these include a provision allowing the developer to pay a fee to the local government in lieu of actually offering low cost housing.

AB 1229 is sponsored by groups seeking to maximize housing options for low income people, including the Western Center on Law and Poverty, the California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation, the Non-Profit Housing Association of Northern California and the San Diego Housing Federation.

The bill now moves to the State Senate for consideration.

Local Walmart worker joins nationwide, prolonged strike

Striking worker will join caravan to Walmart shareholders meeting in Arkansas to call for better jobs

SAN DIEGO – Armando Valenzuela, an employee of Walmart store 2291 in Chula Vista, CA, today went on strike, joining more than 100 other Walmart workers across the country. Valenzuela presented the manager of his Walmart store with a letter outlining the basis for his Unfair Labor Practices Strike lasting for one week.

"Every one of my Walmart co-workers across the country has their own awful story, but they aren't all yet ready to to risk their jobs to speak out," said Armando Valenzuela, striking Walmart employee. "I'm standing up today and taking the message to Walmart headquarters on behalf of the millions of Walmart employees who deserve so much better."

Valenzuela will now join a Freedom Rider-inspired “Ride for Respect” caravan to Bentonville, Arkansas to participate in the Walmart shareholders meeting on June 7, 2013. Workers from 12 states so far have gone on strike, and members of the caravan will deliver a petition at the shareholders meeting calling on Walmart to publicly commit to jobs with full-time hours and a minimum salary of $25,000.

"All workers, union and non-union, deserve basic respect and the opportunity to provide for themselves and their families," said Richard Barrera, Secretary-Treasurer of the San Diego Labor Council. "We continue to call on Walmart and all employers to be responsible community partners and treat their workers with dignity and fairness."

The first prolonged strike in Walmart history, the national action follows the first coordinated Walmart strikes in October and nationwide Black Friday walkouts in November.

"It takes tremendous courage to stand up against the biggest corporation in America," said Mickey Kasparian, President of UFCW Local 135. "I'm proud to stand with Armando and all the everyday workers throughout this process to demand fair and decent treatment for all Walmart employees."

The group OUR Walmart recently filed thirty counts of unfair labor practices with the National Labor Relations Board, including alleged acts of retaliation and intimidation by Walmart management.

"One of the most fundamental elements of our social contract is the fundamental commitment that if you work hard and do your share, you'll be able to afford to live safely and healthily," said Rabbi Laurie Coskey, Executive Director of the Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice. "But it takes more than simply believing; it takes people like Armando who are willing to stand up and fight against corporations who aren't working in good faith with our communities."

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San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council
The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO includes 135 affiliated labor groups in the region with a membership of more than 200,000 working families.  Founded in 1891, the Labor Council advocates for more jobs, better jobs and better lives for all of San Diego’s workers – union and non-union.
www.unionyes.org

ASSEMBLY PASSES ATKINS BILL TO INCREASE ACCESS TO EARLY ABORTIONS

(San Diego)  The California State Assembly today passed legislation by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins to address the shortage of trained healthcare providers who are permitted to perform first trimester abortions.  AB 154 allows nurses, physician’s assistants, and nurse-midwives to perform aspiration abortions after receiving proper training.  Currently, over half of California’s counties have no abortion provider, forcing women to travel long distances and experience long delays in accessing this critical healthcare procedure.

“Women need quality health care in their own communities and without excessive wait times,” says Atkins.  “This is particularly true with abortion services, which are cheaper and less complicated earlier in a pregnancy.  My bill improves the lives of women and their families.”

A recent comprehensive study conducted by the University of California San Francisco and published in the American Journal of Public Health showed that trained nurse practitioners, midwives and physicians assistants can safely provide early abortions and that women appreciate receiving care in their own communities.  AB 154 includes stringent training and competency requirements for these practitioners.

The bill is sponsored by the California Women’s Health Alliance, a coalition of groups such as Planned Parenthood that is dedicated to protecting and improving the reproductive health of California women and will next be heard in the Assembly Health Committee. The bill is also supported by the California Medical Association.

AB 154 now moves to the State Senate for consideration.

BOY SCOUTS DECISION ONLY GOES HALFWAY

(Sacramento) Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins made the following statement regarding today’s decision by the Boy Scouts to admit gay boys but still ban LGBT adults:

Today the Boy Scouts of America took a half step forward toward being an organization that embraces one of the most fundamental principles of American society, that all people are equal.

It is good that in the future no boy will be turned away from Scouting because of his sexual orientation.  However, to continue to treat LGBT adult leaders, including Scouts who have reached adulthood and presumably embody Scouting’s values, continues the shameful practice of treating some volunteers as second class citizens.  Most important, boys who have an LGBT parent who wants to be a Cub or Boy Scout Den Leader will still be told that their parent is inferior.  No youth organization should tell a child such a thing.

Moreover, because of their continuing discrimination and their self-avowed status as a religious organization, the Boy Scouts should not receive taxpayer subsidies for use of public facilities, despite today’s vote.

The struggle for an equal and inclusive society can be a long, slow process and progress is often incremental.  It is my hope that today is just a first step for the Boy Scouts and not a final one.

ASSEMBLY PASSES ATKINS BILL TO ADDRESS BOAT PAINT POLLUTION

(Sacramento) The California State Assembly today unanimously passed a bill by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins that will lead to a determination of how best to address the water pollution caused by copper-based boat hull paint.  AB 425 requires the California Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR) to evaluate and make recommendations regarding whether to make the paint subject to increased state oversight and how best to mitigate its potentially harmful effects.  The bill calls for DPR to issue its report no later than February 1, 2014.

“Copper paint protects boat hulls, but can be harmful for our waterways and the animals that live in them,” says Atkins.  “AB 425 will provide the scientific analysis we need in order to formulate sound environmental policy to protect our water quality and marine life in a way that is least burdensome to boat owners.”

Copper based paint keeps boat hulls free of damaging organisms like barnacles and algae, but, at the same time, can foul the water and endanger aquatic life.  This is particularly problematic in waterways that are semi-enclosed, experience little water circulation, and have a high concentration of recreational vessel moorings, where boats spend most of their time in one place.

Copper based hull paint is legal in California as long as it is registered as a pesticide; however, the level of pollution in some bodies of water exceeds that allowable under the federal Clean Water Act and state water quality regulations.  For example, Shelter Island Yacht Basin in San Diego Bay has been ordered to reduce its copper pollution by 76% by the year 2022.

DPR has been conducting ongoing research and analysis of the issue for a number of years without issuing recommendations.  AB 425 is intended to jump start this process and require DPR to complete its work so that informed policy decisions can be made.

The bill will next be considered in the State Senate.

Richard Barrera elected Secretary-Treasurer and CEO of the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO

Barrera succeeds Lorena Gonzalez after her election to the 80th Assembly District

SAN DIEGO - Lorena Gonzalez resigned her position as Secretary-Treasurer and CEO of the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, one day after being elected to represent California's 80th Assembly District.

"I've worked side by side with Lorena for years, and I have always been proud to have her at the head of this Labor Council and as the best advocate that working families in San Diego could have asked for," said Mickey Kasparian, President of the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council and UFCW Local 135. "I couldn't be happier that, along with Myrtle Cole, this Labor Council is able to mark the end of Lorena's tenure by electing two of our own to champion labor and workers' rights as they represent San Diego."

After announcing her resignation on Wednesday, May 22, 2013, Gonzalez asked for support of her recommendation of Richard Barrera to succeed her as Secretary-Treasurer and CEO of the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council. Later Wednesday evening, Richard Barrera was unanimously recommended for the position by the Labor Council Executive Board and elected the next Secretary-Treasurer and CEO by Labor Council delegates at their monthly meeting.

"Lorena's leadership of this Labor Council is the stuff of legend, and I'm honored to continue the work that she's led for so many years," said Barrera after his election by Labor Council delegates. "Working families have built tremendous power for themselves in San Diego, and I can't wait to keep pushing to grow our middle class, protect workers on the job, and stay on the path to achieve economic justice for every San Diegan."

"I've worked with Richard for years and seen him in action on behalf of working people here in San Diego, and I know his drive and commitment will lead the Labor Council to continued success," Kasparian continued after Barrera’s election. "I’m excited for Richard's vision as we all look to build an even stronger movement for working families in San Diego."

Barrera will complete the four year term to which Gonzalez was elected on March 28, 2012, expiring in 2016.

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San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council
The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO includes 135 affiliated labor groups in the region with a membership of more than 200,000 working families.  Founded in 1891, the Labor Council advocates for more jobs, better jobs and better lives for all of San Diego’s workers – union and non-union.

www.unionyes.org  

Labor Council Response to Special Election Results in the 80th Assembly District & 4th San Diego City Council District

 

SAN DIEGO - San Diego Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez made the following statement in response to reported results in two San Diego special elections today:


“Tonight we're seeing exactly what happens when San Diego's working families stand up for themselves against the downtown special interests. Despite the best efforts of the likes of the Lincoln Club, Walmart, hoteliers, and lobbyists, working people have come together for their communities to make their voices heard.

“The strides that we've seen in these communities in just the last few years have been amazing. These working San Diegans have found the time and energy to really commit to organized, empowered neighborhoods, and we've seen the results in the election of Mayor Bob Filner, the defeat of Proposition 32, and in two more landmark victories for working families tonight.

“The most exciting part is knowing that this isn't simply a one-time election effort. This is real, grassroots infrastructure that's built to last and make sure the hard working people in these communities continue to be heard as we all continue working to build a better San Diego that works for everyone.”

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San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council

The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO includes 135 affiliated labor groups in the region with a membership of more than 200,000 working families.  Founded in 1891, the Labor Council advocates for more jobs, better jobs and better lives for all of San Diego’s workers – union and non-union.
www.unionyes.org

STATEMENT OF MAJORITY LEADER ATKINS ON GOVERNOR BROWN’S REVISED BUDGET

(Sacramento)  Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins made the following statement on today’s release of Governor Jerry Brown’s “May Revise,” a revised budget proposal for fiscal year 2014 which reflects recent economic factors:

“I applaud Governor Brown’s cautious and balanced approach to state finances which prioritizes our investment in the future through education and healthcare.  This approach keeps our promise to help those with the greatest need, while also maintaining our focus on steps that will pay off in terms of prosperity for many generations to come.  It is also consistent with the principles outlined in the Assembly Democratic Caucus’ Blueprint for a Responsible Budget, released last week – fiscal responsibility, strengthening the middle class, and delivering effective, efficient services for Californians.

The Governor and the Legislature have worked together over the past few years to achieve today’s balanced and stable budget.  We have done this through tough and painful cuts that reduced safety net services.  The voters’ approval of the temporary taxes in Proposition 30 has also relieved the strain on state coffers as we slowly recover from the Great Recession.  I look forward to working with my legislative colleagues to review the details of the Governor’s proposal as we move toward adoption of a balanced, on-time budget by June 15.”

ASSEMBLYMEMBER WEBER RESPONDS TO GOVERNOR’S REVISED BUDGET

SACRAMENTO, CA- Assembly Member Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego) commends Governor Jerry Brown for presenting a budget that provides more funding for education and puts California on a path to long term fiscal stability.  During a press conference today in Sacramento, highlighting revisions to his previous budget proposal, the Governor announced that the state is $4.5 billion above revenue estimates made in January and highlighted his plans to restructure the local school funding formula to benefit low income, English learners, and foster youth as well as implement the State's new Common Core Curriculum Standards.

Specifically, the Governor proposes to increase funding for the local control funding formula by an additional $240 million, for a total of $1.9 billion.  He also plans to allocate $1 billion in one-time funds in 2013-14 to fund the Common Core Standards. These revenues would be available for professional development, instructional materials, and technology enhancements, which would be funded per pupil at roughly $170 per student, the Governor indicated.

“The inequities and disparities of the current system are well documented and should no longer be tolerated, said Assemblymember Weber, who was an educator for over 40 years. “We now have an historic opportunity to ensure all students have equal access to base funding and to invest in students of high need. The Governor’s Local Control Funding is a starting point to ensure that this is accomplished, but there are still some concerns that need to be worked out.  There has to be accountability and transparency to ensure that dollars are allocated wisely.  Furthermore, we need to ensure that this influx of dollars will focus on creating career pathways for our disadvantaged students so that they can obtain high wage jobs and in turn give back to our economy,” she said.

California recently joined a number of other states in adopting the Common Core State Standards, which establishes new criteria for what students should learn in school. It also joined a consortium of states to develop new tests based on those standards. California has already adopted the Common Core Standards in Math in the fall of 2010 and new English Language Development Standards in 2012.  Governor Brown’s May Revise provides a $1 billion allocation to assist schools in implementing these standards.

“This year I am authoring AB 899, which is a bill intended to establish a process to align the English Language Development (ELD) standards to the new Common Core Math and New Generation Science Standards to help our nearly 1.4 million English Learners. I am glad that the Governor is making the Common Core Standards a priority. I look forward to working with the Governor and my colleagues in the Legislature to ensure students in California and the nation are at the same academic level as students in other countries,” said Assemblymember Weber.

The revised budget proposal assumes $98.1 million in revenue and $96.4 million in expenditures and includes a $1.1 billion reserve.  In the next couple of weeks, the Legislature and the Governor will work together to pass a responsible on time budget by June 15, 2013. Assemblymember Weber appreciates the Governor’s commitment to maintaining the fiscal stability that has come from an improving economy.

ATKINS BILL TO STREAMLINE TRANSGENDER NAME CHANGES PASSES ASSEMBLY

(San Diego)  Assembly Bill 1121, authored by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins, was passed by the California State Assembly today.  The bill provides transgender people seeking legal name changes to reflect their gender identity with a streamlined and inexpensive process that protects their privacy. Current law requires a transgender person to obtain a court order and to publish the name change application in the newspaper. This process can be expensive and also publicly exposes the person to potential discrimination, harassment or even violence because of being transgender.

“Transgender people are entitled to have their official documents and their legal name reflect their true identity without a burdensome and expensive process that endangers their personal safety,” says Atkins.

Transgender people’s understanding of themselves as male or female is different from the sex they were assigned at birth.  Medical science recognizes this condition as Gender Dysphoria and prescribes specific treatments to help the transgender person transition physically, so their bodies match their gender identity.  This often includes surgery, medication, and mental health support. Being transgender is not a choice.  A person’s gender identity is set at an early age and cannot be changed at will.

The transition to living in accord with one’s gender identity also involves a legal process because birth certificates and a person’s name usually reflect the sex they were assigned at birth. In California, a person seeking a court-ordered name change has to publish a notice in a newspaper for four weeks.  They are also required to have a public hearing before a judge, the record of which is also public.  The process is lengthy and can be expensive.

Forty-four percent of transgender people experience discrimination, harassment and assault.  A public name change process heightens the likelihood of these occurring.  AB 1121 allows the transgender person to avoid the public notice and court process by applying directly to the state Office of Vital Records for a name change.

AB 1121 is sponsored by Equality California and the Transgender Law Center.  It will now move to the California State Senate for consideration.

Pharmacist Kickbacks Jeopardizing the Health of San Diego Patients

The following is a guest opinion by Hollaine Hopkins from the Lupus Foundation, California chapter.

Health care cost containment is a critical issue facing every participant in the health care system. Efforts to contain costs, however, appear to have given rise to dangerous financial arrangements between health insurers and pharmacists that may be jeopardizing the health of San Diego patients.

A loophole in California law allows your health insurer to give a financial kickback to your pharmacist every time the pharmacist switches your medication to older, cheaper, non-chemically equivalent drugs from those originally prescribed by your doctor, even without your knowledge.

Switching patients to non-chemically equivalent drugs is a potentially dangerous practice known as “therapeutic substitution.” Unlike switching patients to identical generic drugs – which simply function as a cheaper alternative – pharmacists who make therapeutic substitutions are subjecting patients to drugs with different ingredients and dosages, different release mechanisms, and different side effects and complications.

For the more than 1.5 million Americans living with lupus, a therapeutic switch can directly result in a decline in health. Although two medicines may treat the same condition, when the ingredients are not the same, there can be different side effects or treatment can be ineffective. There is currently no cure for lupus and many patients take up to 20 pills every day simply to mitigate the symptoms of the disease. Those patients need to know they are getting the medications their doctor prescribed.

California law currently prohibits physicians from receiving any financial incentive from insurers for prescribing any particular course of treatment. Because of a loophole in the law, however, pharmacists are allowed to take a kickback from an insurer every time they make a therapeutic switch to a cheaper drug.

Perhaps not surprisingly, physicians report a spike in the number of requests to authorize these switches, leaving physicians without any idea if the pharmacist is recommending the switch because it is in the best interest of the patient or if it is because the pharmacist is receiving financial compensation for the switch.

Pharmacists are a critical part of a collaborative health care environment based on ethics and trust. Pharmacists are rightly well-regarded figures in their communities, and when pharmacists provide counsel, patients listen.

Prescribing physicians also routinely take the advice of pharmacists on alternate therapies, without question, for any number of reasons. A pharmacist may know that a patient’s health plan does not cover the medication a doctor has prescribed, for example. Pharmacists may also have knowledge of patient history that can help patients avoid negative drug interactions.

San Diego patients should be confident that treatment decisions are based solely on what is in their best interest and should not have to worry about whether their pharmacist is being unduly influenced by health insurer kickbacks.

League of Conservation Voters San Diego Releases 2012 Environmental Quality Report Card

Report Card grades San Diego Councilmembers and Mayor on environmental record in 2012

San Diego -- League of Conservation Voters San Diego today released the 2012 Environmental Quality Report Card for City of San Diego. The Report Card identifies 17 priority votes from 2012 and grades each member of the San Diego City Council and now-former Mayor Jerry Sanders on their record on environmental issues.

Grades for the nine elected officials ranged from an 88% ‘B’ for Councilmember David Alvarez to 59% failing ‘F’ grades for former Councilmember Carl DeMaio and former Mayor Jerry Sanders.

“The good news is, the entire council showed improved scores after an abysmal 2011 report card,” said Livia Borak, President of League of Conservation Voters San Diego. “The key now will be building on improved communications to keep our elected leadership informed and engaged on environmental priorities as we move forward.”

The entire Council improved its ranking by voting unanimously on numerous positive environmental issues, including the Water Policy Implementation Task Force, approving the purchase of emergency generators for sewage pump stations, accepting the Recycled Water Study, blocking the Quail Brush energy project, approving the California Property Assessed Clean Energy financing program, and dedicating park and recreation lands.

“It’s encouraging to see stronger voting records from the council, but we still have plenty of room for more leadership on environmental justice and climate change,” said Nicole Capretz, Associate Director, Green Energy/Green Jobs Campaign for the Environmental Health Coalition. “The next step is to make sure these issues are central to long-term planning in San Diego.”

The 2012 EQRC includes a breakdown of the votes and explanations of priority issues from the past year. It also outlines ways that members of the city council can improve their grades going forward.

“In 2013, we’ll be looking to the council to address a number of issues that will impact our region for years to come,” said Jill Witkowski, Waterkeeper at San Diego Coastkeeper. “From storm water regulations that could finally make the water safe after it rains to climate change standards that seriously address the threats to our region, now is the time to commit to smart, lasting policies to keep San Diego on the right track.”

The entire report card can be downloaded at the League of Conservation Voters San Diego website at http://lcvsd.org/

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LCVSD is a chapter of the California League of Conservation Voters, which seeks to protect the environmental quality of the state by working to elect environmentally responsible candidates and hold them accountable to the conservation agenda. By being an "on the ground" voice in the San Diego community, LCVSD provides an opportunity for environmental activists to directly impact the local electoral process while promoting environmental candidates.

MAJORITY LEADER ATKINS HONORED AS AGRICULTURE ADVOCATE

(Sacramento)  Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins of San Diego was honored today with the Cornucopia Award from California Women in Agriculture, http://www.cawomen4ag.com/ .  The award is given annually to an urban legislator who has demonstrated a willingness to enter into dialogue with agriculture.

“While San Diego is well known as the second largest city in California, what is less well known is that agriculture is a key economic engine for San Diego County,” says Atkins.  “I am proud to receive this award and to play a role in enhancing the partnership between urban and rural California, especially by supporting the role of women in agriculture.”

San Diego County has the 12th largest agricultural economy of 3,000 counties nationwide.  It also has more small farms than any other county in the nation.  San Diego is the number one producer of avocados and nursery crops; number two in acres devoted to guavas, pomegranates, limes, and macadamias; and number 3 in honey production.  The county is also first in number of part-time farmers and second nationally in the number of farms with women as the principal operator.

More information about San Diego agriculture is available from the San Diego Farm Bureau, http://www.sdfarmbureau.org/SD-Ag/Ag-Facts.php.

Democrats to Welcome Nathan Fletcher at Annual Gala

Major Obama Fundraiser, La Jolla's Christine Forester, Among Tonight's Honorees

Several surprises will greet the sellout crowd at the San Diego County Democratic Party's 33rd Annual Roosevelt Dinner, themed “Painting the Town Blue,” at the Hilton San Diego Resort in Mission Bay tonight. The reception and silent auction begin at 6:00 p.m. and the program begins at 7:00.

Nathan Fletcher, a former Republican Assemblymember and San Diego mayoral candidate, will be welcomed by County Party Chair Francine Busby as a newly registered Democrat. He announced his registration change this morning on Facebook.

Other special guests will include State Controller John Chiang, a candidate for Treasurer;  State Board of Equalization Member Betty Yee, a candidate for Controller; and State Senator Alex Padilla, a candidate for Secretary of State. The program will feature special awards for Chair Emeritus Jess Durfee and Christine Forester, a prominent local fundraiser for President Obama who sits on several presidential advisory boards.

This year's sellout crowd of more than 600 party activists, volunteers, elected officials, and community leaders will celebrate the sweeping victories of the 2012 election in which 71% of Democratic candidates won countywide. Major wins included picking up a Republican-held Congressional seat; a Democratic Mayor and City Council in San Diego for the first time in history; and the District 3 County Board of Supervisors seat.

This event will be open to credentialed media. The Mission Bay Hilton is located at 1775 Mission Bay Dr., San DIego (92109). Please contact Stephen Whitburn for details at (619) 543-0333.

Attorney General Kamala Harris Endorses Lorena Gonzalez

Pro-Jobs Democrat Earns the Support of California’s Chief Law Enforcement Officer




CHULA VISTA – (Thursday, May 2, 2013) – California Attorney General Kamala Harris has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign in the May 21 special election for the 80th Assembly District.

As the state’s top law enforcement officer and chief lawyer, Harris has aggressively defended the rights of consumers, fought for homeowner rights in the wake of the foreclosure crisis and combated the transnational trafficking of guns and drugs into California. Harris is the first woman, the first African American and the first South Asian to hold the office of Attorney General in California.

"California needs all the strong, passionate voices for justice it can get and that's exactly why I'm counting on Lorena,” Harris said. “She has proven herself to be a successful consensus-builder even when doing the right thing is tough. That's the sort of courage and leadership we need to keep California on the track to greater success."

A full list of Lorena’s endorsements can be viewed at www.votelorena.com/endorsements.

Lorena is a candidate to replace State Senator Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District will be held Tuesday, May 21.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom Endorses Lorena Gonzalez

 

 Pro-Jobs Democrat Earns the Support of California’s Champion for Innovation of Public Service and Progressive Values

CHULA VISTA – (Wednesday, May 1, 2013) – Lt. Governor Gavin Newsom has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign in the May 21 special election for the 80th Assembly District, her campaign announced today.

Newsom has promoted innovation in public service and civic engagement and has led initiatives to benefit environmental quality, job creation and equal rights in California throughout his career. As Lt. Governor, Newsom serves on the governing boards of the University of California and California State University, the State Lands Commission and the California Commission for Economic Development.

“Lorena's reputation as an honest, effective advocate for all working families is already well-known across California,” Newsom said. “I know Lorena will be an outspoken champion for middle-class jobs, high environmental standards and a world-class education system that will prepare our students for the careers of the future.  I’m proud to call her my friend and I’ll be even prouder to call her ‘Assemblywoman’.”

A full list of Lorena’s endorsements can be viewed at www.votelorena.com/endorsements.

Lorena is a candidate to replace State Senator Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District will be held Tuesday, May 21.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

San Diego Labor Leader Blasts Walmart and former Mayor Jerry Sanders

SAN DIEGO - With the recent completion of a state audit of the City of San Diego Development Services Department, United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 135 President Mickey Kasparian calls for the City of San Diego to take action, based on those results.

“In light of the finding by state auditors, our city has no choice but to take extreme action on the Walmart project in Sherman Heights,” demanded Kasparian. “The clear violations of City codes and procedures, possible ethics violations, and a complete lack of transparency, are stunning in their magnitude.”

“Former San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders and his Administration are completely responsible for this mess,” said Kasparian. “An historic site was demolished under his watch. San Diego and its citizens deserve better.”

According to a UT San Diego article dated April 25, 2013, the Sherman Heights construction project gained approval even as Walmart was making donations to political causes favored by former San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders.

“The Walmart construction site in Sherman Heights should be closed and their permits should be revoked,” Mr. Kasparian went on to state. “Walmart has recently been accused of bribery scandals in Mexico and India. We need to know the truth here in San Diego as well.”

Please reference: http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/apr/25/audit-walmart-approval-sherman-heights/

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San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council

The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO represents more than 200,000 union workers in the region and advocates for an economy with more jobs, better jobs and better lives for all workers in the region - union and non-union.
www.unionyes.org

Bill Providing Voting Rights Information to Eligible Offenders Passes Assembly Elections and Redistricting Committee

SACRAMENTO, CA- Assembly Member Shirley N. Weber’s (D-San Diego) AB 149 passed the Assembly Committee on Elections and Redistricting, Tuesday, April 23, 2013, with a 5-2 vote.

C0-sponsored by the California Civil Rights Coalition and the Greenlining Institute, AB 149 would ensure that persons involved in the criminal justice system are given accurate information about their voting rights and are afforded the opportunity to participate in the civic life of their communities.

Specifically, the bill would require the Department of Corrections to provide every parolee with a voter registration form and information about their voting rights upon the completion of their parole supervision. It would also require county probation departments to provide every eligible person under their supervision with a voter registration form and information on their voting rights. County sheriffs would also be required to provide this same information to eligible inmates of a county jail.

“Aside from the fact that voting has been proven to reduce recidivism among current and former offenders, it is a fundamental tenant of democracy,” said Assembly Member Weber. “I’m glad to see my colleagues on the Assembly Elections and Redistricting Committee stand with me in rectifying a situation where misinformation and misconceptions have had the consequence of disenfranchising an entire segment of eligible voters,” she said.

The California Constitution and state law provides that once a person has completed parole, his or her voting rights are automatically reinstated. However, in most instances, those involved in our criminal justice system are not apprised of their voting rights nor is accurate voter information readily accessible to them.

The lack of accurate voter registration information has a particularly disparate impact on communities of color in California, given the racial disparities in our criminal justice system.

By offering voter registration to the thousands of eligible voters who pass through our criminal justice system, the state will be taking an important step toward increasing its dismal voter registration rate.

AB 149 is supported by organizations such as the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, and Rock the Vote. The next step in the legislative process is for the bill to be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

ATKINS BILL TO INCREASE ACCESS TO EARLY ABORTIONS CONTINUES TO ADVANCE

(San Diego)  The Assembly Health Committee today passed AB 154, legislation by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins to expand the list of healthcare professionals authorized to perform early abortions. This bill allows nurses, physician’s assistants, and nurse-midwives to perform aspiration abortions after receiving proper training.  Currently, over half of California’s counties have no abortion provider.  AB 154 will help alleviate that shortage.

“As the former director of women’s health clinics, I know how critical timely reproductive healthcare is for women,” says Atkins.  “My bill will help ensure that no woman will have to travel a long distance or wait a long time for the care she needs because of a shortage of providers.”

A recent comprehensive study conducted by the University of California San Francisco and published in the American Journal of Public Health showed that trained nurse practitioners, midwives and physicians assistants can safely provide early abortions and that women appreciate receiving care in their own communities.  AB 154 includes stringent training and competency requirements for these practitioners.

The bill is sponsored by the California Women’s Health Alliance, a coalition of groups dedicating to protecting and improving the reproductive health of California women and will next be heard in the Assembly Health Committee. The bill is also supported by the California Medical Association.

AB 154 will next be reviewed by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

ATKINS BILL RESTRICTING DRUG SWITCHING BY PHARMACISTS ADVANCES

(San Diego) The Assembly Business, Professions and Consumer Protection Committee today approved a bill by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins to increase protections for patients whose medications are switched by pharmacists receiving financial incentives for doing so.  AB 670 restricts payments for these switches, called therapeutic substitutions, to only those made after the pharmacist performs a comprehensive medication review.

“Pharmacists are valued professional members of the healthcare team who often recommend a substitute medication because it is in the best interest of the patient, but additional caution is needed when the pharmacist has a financial incentive to make the switch,” says Atkins.  “AB 670 will ensure that the switch is in the best interest of the patient.”

Current law allows pharmacists to replace a brand-name drug with a generic formulation of the exact same medication.  Pharmacists may also, with physician approval, make a therapeutic substitution, which means that the drug treats the same condition, but is chemically different from the one originally prescribed.  If not done in conjunction with the proper review, the substitute drug can have adverse effects for the patients.

Doctors are not permitted to accept payment to specifically switch their patients’ medications from one drug to another based solely on a financial incentive.  AB 670 places similar restrictions on pharmacists and will ensure that science and patient well-being are the determining factors when choosing a drug and that consumers are protected.

AB 670 is sponsored by the California Medical Association.  It will next be heard by the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Scott Peters’ Address to California Democratic State Party Convention

Good afternoon, California Democrats!

Because of your remarkable hard work and enthusiasm last year – particularly the non-stop efforts of San Diego Democrats – last fall, I was able to unseat a 12-year Republican incumbent.

He had just about the harshest views toward immigration of any member of Congress, even though he represented a district in San Diego, near one of the largest, busiest international borders in the world.

But thanks to what you did last year, when Congress fixes our broken immigration system this year, Brian Bilbray won’t be there to get in the way!

I’m a life long Democrat; I learned at an early age about standing up for fairness and what’s right.

My dad was a minister who fought for housing desegregation in the suburbs of Detroit in the ‘60s when realtors there wouldn’t let African American or Jewish families buy homes in certain neighborhoods.  He fought that fight despite threats against his personal safety.  My parents set an example of service for me and my sisters, and they were always Democrats.

My parents said the Democratic Party believed in fairness, tolerance, and acceptance; we pitch a Big Tent and make room for others.

We stand for civil rights.  For a woman’s right to choose.  For equality in marriage.  For the ability to cast your vote without harassment or interference.  For equal pay for equal work.  And even in this Congress we have had some success, passing a Violence Against Women Act that protects ALL women, not just some. And we are supporting, and I am co-sponsoring, several bills to give LGBT military spouses equal rights, as well as Rep. Rosa DeLauro’s Paycheck Fairness Act.

As Democrats, our values are that we stand up for the Middle Class, and for the rights of working men and women.  Though sometimes, within our big Democratic tent, we may disagree about how to get there.

For example, not every Democrat agrees with everything about our President’s budget proposal.  But I give him credit for proposing a budget that funds Democratic priorities like investments in children, infrastructure and science that we need to keep America strong, while also reducing spending and debt in a serious way.

We share the same values, even if we see a different pathway.

When I was running for Congress, some skeptics told me that when I got to Washington our Leadership wouldn’t appreciate my independent views and that Party leaders wouldn’t let me vote my conscience over my Caucus.  But that’s not the case.  It turns out that our party, and our leader in the House, Nancy Pelosi, take our diversity seriously, and they value that diversity.

They’ve let me forge my own path, ask my own questions and offer my own ideas, trusting that I know what’s best for my District, consistent with our values.  I thank them for that because our diversity as Democrats makes us stronger.

But if Democrats have a Big Tent, unfortunately, today’s Republican Party is pitching a Pup Tent.

I’ve reached out to moderate Republicans to see if we can forge partnerships to solve problems, and I please don’t get me wrong – I will continue to do just that.  But it appears so far that the Tea Party still reigns supreme on the Right, and in today’s Republican Party, hyper partisanship is rewarded, and independence is squashed.

Last year, we were part of a nationwide message from voters that it’s time to end the political fighting and start the problem solving.  And it’s Democrats that are doing that work today.  So we need to keep sending that message.

Thank you for what you did last year. I ask you not lose the enthusiasm and energy. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Let’s keep the seats we won last year, and let’s go find some more.  Let’s show America that we are serious about fairness and opportunity.  Let’s show America we want to make government work instead of cutting off its legs.  Let’s show America we can adopt science-based climate policy that can save the planet.  And let’s show America that we can build a future where all of our children can be prosperous, safe and healthy.  Let’s finish the job of turning Congress from Red to Blue!

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Local Filipino-American Business Leaders Look to Pro-Jobs Democrat Gonzalez for Leadership

CHULA VISTA – (Tuesday, April 23, 2013) – The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of San Diego County has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez in the May 21 special election for the 80th Assembly District.

The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of San Diego County's mission is to promote interest of Filipino American businesses in the region. Many chamber members reside or own businesses in the 80th Assembly District and a large segment of the Filipino-American community reside in the district.

"The board voted to endorse Lorena Gonzalez as it felt she is the most qualified candidate," said Audie J. de Castro, Chairman of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of San Diego County. "She would best serve members of our organization and community and the 80th District as a whole."

A full list of Lorena's endorsers can be found at http://votelorena.com/endorsements/.

Gonzalez is a candidate to replace State Senator Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

STATEMENT OF ASSEMBLY MAJORITY LEADER TONI ATKINS REGARDING PROPOSED CHANGE TO BOY SCOUTS GAY BAN

(San Diego) Today’s announcement by the Boy Scouts that they will no longer deny membership to gay youth is a positive step forward in eliminating discrimination from the organization; however, the continued ban on adult lesbian and gay volunteers perpetuates irrational and biased stereotypes and denies young people the adult role models they need to grow into successful adults.  I call on the Boy Scouts to reject discrimination in all its forms.

Media reports indicate that the Scouts’ policy change is based upon the results of a survey it recently sent to its supporters, asking for opinions on the discriminatory membership ban.  While it is encouraging that those currently involved in Scouting recognize the unfairness of denying the Scouting experience to some boys, I encourage them to recognize that many adults, gay and straight, refuse to involve their families in the Boy Scouts while it treats some families as second class.  The Boy Scouts should seek adult volunteers who exemplify integrity and commitment to youth, regardless of their sexual orientation.  A youth organization should not teach any boy that his parents are unwelcome or inferior.

Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins is a member of the California LGBT Legislative Caucus.  As a San Diego City Councilmember, she led the fight to end the Boy Scouts’ free use of Balboa Park for their headquarters because of their discriminatory policies.

Bill to Rebuild Communities and Decrease Recidivism in California Passes State Assembly Committee

SACRAMENTO, CA- Today, the Assembly Public Safety Committee passed Assembly Member Shirley Weber’s (D-San Diego) Assembly Bill No. 1238 unanimously with a 7 to 0 vote on April 16, 2013.

This bill continues a proven reentry program for youthful offenders ages 18-24. The California Youthful Offender Reentry Program (Cal-YOR) is an evidence-based program that has effectively brought the recidivism rate down to 1.5 percent for enrolled youth offenders.

Specifically, AB 1238 puts the Cal-YOR program into statute, recognizing it as an effective program for improving communities and reducing recidivism.  Nine community-based organization, including Homeboy Industries, received grants under Cal-YOR in 2010.  The one-time funding supported 411 at-risk-youth and resulted in a 1.5 percent recidivism rate for these offenders, as reported by the California Emergency Management Agency (Cal-EMA) this month, which is a record low.

“Cal-YOR funded programs, like California YouthBuild and Homeboy Industries, have changed the lives of hundreds of young offenders throughout California,” said Assembly Member Shirley N. Weber. “These programs have turned offenders into leaders and have given these kids a chance to rebuild their lives.

Reentry programs, such as  the California YouthBuild and Homeboy Industries programs, have built a reputation as an invaluable and effective resource for young offenders returning to communities.  While enrolled in the program, these offenders are required to participate in job training, obtain their high school diplomas through classroom instruction, assist in construction projects to build and refurbishing affordable housing and improve energy efficiency in homes.

“AB 1238 provides the necessary services, including educational and employment opportunities for a meaningful second chance,” said Assembly Member Weber.  “It is unrealistic to simply release a young offender from incarceration and expect that he or she will have the personal tools needed to turn his or her life around.”

AB 1238 has passed its first hurdle and will now move to be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Bill Providing Voting Rights Information and Registration to Eligible Current and Former Offenders Passes Assembly Public Safety Committee

SACRAMENTO, CA- Assembly Member Shirley N. Weber’s (D-San Diego) AB 149 passed the Assembly Committee on Public Safety with a 5-2 vote on April 16, 2012.
AB 149 would ensure that persons involved in the criminal justice system are given accurate information about their voting rights and are afforded the opportunity to participate in the civic life of their communities.

“Anyone who believes that voting is one of the bedrock principles of our democracy should support AB 149,” said Assembly Member Weber. “Right now, whether it’s intentional or not, we are depriving an entire segment of eligible voters, largely people of color, from their voting rights simply by not providing them with the correct voting information.”

The bill would require the Department of Corrections to provide every parolee with a voter registration form and information about their voting rights upon the completion of their parole supervision. It would also require county probation departments to provide every eligible person under their supervision with a voter registration form and information on their voting rights. County sheriffs would also be required to provide this same information to eligible inmates of a county jail.
California ranks near the bottom (45th) among states in voter registration levels. Among the millions of unregistered voters in California are people who mistakenly believe they are ineligible to vote due to a criminal charge or conviction.

Participation in voting and other civic matters can help former offenders successfully re-enter society and has been linked to help reduced recidivism. The California State Constitution and state law provides that once a person has completed parole, his or her voting rights are automatically reinstated.

But those involved in our criminal justice system are not apprised of their voting rights nor is accurate voter information readily accessible to them.

Instead, rumors and misinformation abound, and even from courts, public defenders and elections officials often give out incorrect information about eligibility. For example, a study by the Sentencing Project, a Washington research and advocacy group, found that 37 percent of public officials surveyed in 10 states either misstated a central provision of the voter eligibility law or were unsure about what the law said.

Given the racial disparities in our criminal justice system, the lack of accurate voter registration information has a particularly disparate impact on communities of color in California.

“We know that countless reports such as Uggen & Manza’s study of voting rights and recidivism, as well as Brennan Center for Justice and Democracy’s Voting Rights Restoration study, have echoed the sentiment that there is a strong correlation between voting and reduced recidivism so it only makes sense to ensure accurate information is provided,” said Assembly Member Weber.

By offering voter registration to the thousands of eligible voters who pass through our criminal justice system, the state will be taking an important step toward increasing its dismal voter registration rate.

The public welfare and safety of our communities will also be enhanced by the civic participation of all eligible voters, which includes those who are attempting to successfully re-enter their communities.

The bill will be heard next by the Assembly Elections and Redistricting Committee on April 23, 2013.

Statement of California Democratic Party Chairman John Burton on Need for Filibuster Reform in Wake of U.S. Senate's Failure to Take Action Against Gun Violence

At no point has the need to end the Senate’s absurd 60-vote requirement been made clearer than yesterday. A measure to require more gun buyers to go through background checks garnered 54 votes - more than a majority - but failed to clear the 60 vote threshold that has become a baseline to move any business forward in the Senate.

Incredulous Americans today woke up to the news that even in the wake of the tragedies in Aurora, Colorado, Oak Creek, Wisconsin and Newtown, Connecticut, the Senate can’t pass sensible gun legislation to make these mass shootings less common or more difficult to carry out.
The Senate is broken. Its procedures are arcane and indefensible.

It is time to end the 60-vote requirement. The victims of tragedies past, and the victims of tragedies that are more likely to come without action, demand no less.

Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox Endorses Lorena Gonzalez

Cox Endorsement is 'A Vote for Honest Compromise' and the Latest South Bay Mayor to Support Pro-Jobs Democrat Gonzalez

CHULA VISTA – (Wednesday, April 17, 2013) – Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez in the May 21 special election for the 80th Assembly District.
Cox, a Republican, is in her second term as mayor of the second largest city in San Diego County. Lorena and Mayor Cox worked for several years to bring business, unions, government and the community together to approve the Chula Vista Bayfront Master Plan, which is slated to break ground next year and create 2,200 permanent jobs and 7,000 construction jobs.

"Mayor Cox's endorsement is another vote of confidence for honest compromise," Lorena said. "After working with different stakeholders in the Chula Vista Bayfront, we were able to come together to create new opportunities for the South Bay. I am very honored that she respects the hard work that had to be done in that process by endorsing my campaign."

Cheryl Cox is the most recent South Bay mayor -- past and present -- to endorse Lorena: San Diego Mayor Bob Filner; National City Mayor Ron Morrison; former Chula Vista Mayors Greg Cox, Stephen Padilla and Tim Nader; and Former National City Mayor Nick Inzunza have all endorsed Lorena as well.

She has also been endorsed by Congressman Juan Vargas, State Senator Ben Hueso and several other Democrats, Independents and Republicans. A full endorsement list can be found at http://votelorena.com/endorsements/.

Gonzalez is a candidate to replace State Senator Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21.
Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

Statement by San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Lorena Gonzalez On Immigration Bill

SAN DIEGO - Today’s announcement of a roadmap to citizenship for more than 11 million aspiring Americans is a testament to the unstoppable momentum in our country around creating a just and compassionate immigration process.

San Diego’s labor movement is committed to mobilizing our community to ensure that we will have a roadmap to citizenship in 2013.

As may be expected in a first response to an issue as complex as immigration, there are details in the bill that could cause unintended, but serious, harm to immigrant workers and the broader labor market. We still have much work to do to fix these aspects and mobilize our community to ensure we have the best, most comprehensive and inclusive bill possible.

Our work does not stop now, not when our families and communities continue to be torn apart. Workers who stand up for themselves in the workplace are being deported by employers while DREAMers watch as their parents are seized out of their arms. We call for an immediate moratorium on deportations of people who will soon be eligible for a roadmap to citizenship.

All people want to create opportunities for ourselves and our families. Working people in San Diego and around the country believe in hard work, in the dignity of all work, and in respect for one another. What unites us as Americans is our belief in shared values and in the country we call home, not where we were born.

We will not stop until our sisters and brothers, neighbors and co-workers, and fellow community members can live and work with dignity and without fear.

Together with our allies in the immigrant rights movement, faith groups and community partners, the San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council and the more than 200,000 working families it represents are committed to fighting for justice for all working people. The time for citizenship is now.

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San Diego-Imperial Counties Labor Council

The San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council, AFL-CIO includes 135 affiliated labor groups in the region with a membership of more than 200,000 working families. Founded in 1891, the Labor Council advocates for more jobs, better jobs and better lives for all of San Diego’s workers – union and non-union.

www.unionyes.org

Weber’s Bill to Protect Providers of In-Home Supportive Services Passes the Assembly Health Committee

SACRAMENTO, CA- Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber’s (D-San Diego) AB 784, which would establish a 13-member advisory committee to assess the impact of the Affordable Care Act on health care benefits for In-Home Supportive Services, providers passed the Assembly Public Safety  Committee on Tuesday, April 16, 2013 with a 13-4 vote.

California’s In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program pays for services to help qualified individuals remain safely at home. Currently it is unclear how the Affordable Care Act will affect the IHSS provider-employer relationship for purposes of providing health care benefits to IHSS providers.

“An advisory committee dedicated to determining the appropriate employer for purposes of providing health benefits will ensure that there is a clear delineation as to who is responsible for providing health benefits to providers of in-home support services,” said Assemblymember Weber.

AB 784 is sponsored by the United Domestic Workers and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees. AB 784 will next be heard in the Assembly Human Services Committee on April 30, 2013.

California Democratic Party Endorses Lorena Gonzalez

State Party Endorsement Caps Support From Major Democratic Leaders and Organizations in South Bay Assembly Race

SACRAMENTO – (Monday, April 15, 2013) – The California Democratic Party has endorsed pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez in the May 21 special election for the 80th Assembly District.
The endorsement was announced at the 2013 California Democratic Party State Convention held in Sacramento this weekend. The announcement followed a unanimous vote by party delegates in the 80th District last week to endorse Lorena, a lifelong Democrat who has garnered support from every Democratic club in the region as well as nearly every major Democratic elected official in the 80th Assembly District.

"California needs more women in the state legislature, and who better than Lorena Gonzalez -- a woman who has dedicated her life to advocating for more jobs, better jobs and a stronger middle class," California Democratic Party Chairman John Burton said.

Lorena has been previously endorsed by several Democratic Party clubs in the district, including the Chula Vista Democratic Club, San Diego County Young Democrats, the Chicano Democratic Association, the South Bay Democratic Club and the Eastlake-Bonita Democratic Club.

She has also been endorsed by San Diego Mayor Bob Filner, Congressman Juan Vargas, State Senator Ben Hueso and several other Democratic elected officials. A full endorsement list can be found at http://votelorena.com/endorsements/.

Gonzalez is a candidate to replace State Senator Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

ATKINS BILL TO INCREASE ACCESS TO EARLY ABORTIONS ADVANCES

(San Diego)  AB 154, legislation by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins to expand the list of healthcare professionals who are authorized to perform early abortions, was approved by the Assembly Business and Professions Committee today. Under this bill, nurses, physician’s assistants, and nurse-midwives would be able to perform aspiration abortions after receiving training.  The bill addresses a serious shortage of healthcare providers available to women seeking this procedure.

“More than half the counties in California have no abortion provider, forcing women to travel long distances or endure long waiting lists in order to receive basic reproductive healthcare,” says Atkins.  “For some, this delay means a more complicated procedure or even giving up.  My bill increases the number of skilled and trained professionals available to fill this healthcare gap.”

A recent comprehensive study conducted by the University of California San Francisco and published in the American Journal of Public Health showed that trained nurse practitioners, midwives and physicians assistants can safely provide early abortions and that women appreciate receiving care in their own communities.  AB 154 includes stringent training and competency requirements for these practitioners.

The bill is sponsored by the California Women’s Health Alliance, a coalition of groups dedicating to protecting and improving the reproductive health of California women and will next be heard in the Assembly Health Committee.

Assembly Public Safety Committee Passes Weber’s Bill Requiring Further Training for Peace Officers

SACRAMENTO, CA- Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber’s (D-San Diego) AB 979, which would require peace officers assigned to a jurisdiction that includes navigable waters to complete a course in basic maritime operations passed the Assembly Public Safety  Committee on Tuesday, April 2, 2013 with a 7-0 bipartisan vote.

Sponsored by the Port of Los Angeles, AB 979 requires specified peace officers assigned to a jurisdiction that includes navigable waters to complete a course in basic maritime operations.   The course would be required only if the local governing body opts in and if the federal Department of Homeland Security provides funding.

“By having basic training for maritime peace officers, ports in California will be better served in emergency situations, such as man-made or natural disasters,” said Assemblymember Weber.
As a result of post-9/11 homeland security and post security missions, maritime training has not only evolved but has also become a necessity among law enforcement agencies whose jurisdictions include maritime areas. It is critical for agencies, such as the Coast Guard, Sheriff’s departments, and police departments, to enhance their maritime presence, adequacy and consistency of training.

Ensuring that our ports and waterways are secure is important to protecting California, and we must be sure that our officers are properly trained to handle any issues that may arise.  This measure achieves this objective.

AB 979 is supported by the Port of Los Angeles, California Association of Harbor Masters and Port Captains, the California Association of Port Authorities, and the National Marine Manufacturers Association. The legislation will next be heard in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.

Senator Ben Hueso Endorses Lorena Gonzalez in 80th Assembly District Election

Hueso Endorses Lorena to Replace Him in Assembly; Says She is Strongest Candidate for Rebuilding Middle Class

CHULA VISTA – (Friday, April 5, 2013) – State Senator Ben Hueso today announced his endorsement of pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign for the 80th Assembly District.

Hueso represented the 80th Assembly District from 2010 until this March, when he was elected to the State Senate in a special election. Prior to his election to the Assembly, Hueso served as City Council President and Councilmember to San Diego neighborhoods in the South Bay and the Historic Barrio District.

“I support Lorena Gonzalez because she will provide honest representation to the people of the 80th Assembly District and she's committed to fighting for the Middle Class,” said State Senator Ben Hueso. “There is no better candidate than Lorena Gonzalez for the State Assembly.”

Lorena served as Hueso’s alternate on the California Coastal Commission and the two leaders have partnered on numerous initiatives, including legislation signed into law by Gov. Brown last year that protects Social Security benefits for public safety personnel (AB 1248).

Lorena is a candidate to replace Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

COMMITTEE APPROVES ATKINS BILL TO EXPAND FINANCING FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING

(Sacramento)  A bill to ensure that state tax credits for developers who build low income housing for special needs populations are available where they are most needed was advanced today on a unanimous vote by the Assembly Housing and Community Development Committee.  AB 952, authored by Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins, lifts current restrictions on where these tax credits can be used so that the state’s most expensive areas, as well as those with the highest poverty rates, are eligible.   At least half of the planned housing will be required to serve special needs populations such as the homeless, pregnant and parenting teens, and the disabled.

“This bill makes sense from both a business and a humanitarian viewpoint.  AB 952 ensures that no tax credits go unused, while it also benefits Californians with the greatest need for housing,” says Atkins. “Housing developments for special needs populations require substantial subsidies because of the extremely low incomes of residents.  But these subsidies pay off for the state in the long run in terms of quality of life and reduced healthcare and social services costs.”

Funding for affordable housing in California has significantly declined in recent years, due to the loss of tax increment revenues designated for this purpose from now defunct redevelopment areas; a tightening since the recession of what was already difficult to secure bank financing; and the spend-down of housing funds generated by two statewide ballot measures, Props 1C and 63. Currently, areas where affordable housing is most needed -- Difficult to Develop Areas (DDAs,) where housing is most expensive, and Qualified Census Tracts (QCTs,) which have a high level of poor residents -- are ineligible for state low income tax credits because those areas receive similar federal tax credits.  However, due to a lack of demand outside of these two high-need areas, the state Tax Credit Allocation Committee has had as much as $25 million in state credits remaining at the end of the year.  This bill would allow some of those credits to be applied in DDAs and QCTs for special needs housing.

AB 952 will next be heard in the Assembly Revenue and Taxation Committee.

County Supervisor Greg Cox Endorses Lorena Gonzalez in 80th Assembly District Special Election

Longtime Republican Supervisor and Former Chula Vista Mayor Hails Lorena as “Committed to Creating Jobs”

CHULA VISTA – (Thursday, April 4, 2013) – Greg Cox, the longtime County Supervisor for the South Bay, today announced his endorsement of pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign for the 80th Assembly District.

Cox, a Republican, has represented the South Bay on the San Diego County Board of Supervisors since 1995. Before becoming a County Supervisor, Cox was Mayor (1981-1990) and City Councilman (1976-1981) of Chula Vista. Cox also served as Executive Director of the South County Economic Development Corp. and as an educator in the Sweetwater Union High School District.

“I have worked with Lorena and I know she is committed to creating jobs and protecting the middle class,” Cox said. “With only two candidates in this race, I will be casting my vote for Lorena and encourage other South Bay voters to do the same.”

Lorena and Supervisor Cox partnered in 2010 on a common-sense approach to protecting the jobs of concession, parking and hospitality employees at the San Diego International Airport upon a change in contractor.

Gonzalez is a candidate to replace State Senator-elect Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail VoteLorena@gmail.com.

Fuzzy Math. A Surplus?

Congressman Juan Vargas Endorses Lorena Gonzalez in 80th Assembly District Special Election

Longtime South Bay Leader Says Lorena Will Be Strongest Voice for Rebuilding the Middle Class in California

CHULA VISTA – (Tuesday, April 2, 2013) – U.S. Congressman Juan Vargas today announced his endorsement of pro-jobs Democrat Lorena Gonzalez's campaign for the 80th Assembly District.

Vargas was elected to Congress last year after representing the San Diego County’s South Bay communities in the State Senate (2010-2013), State Assembly (2001-2007), and San Diego City Council (1993-2000). Lorena and the Congressman have partnered on developing policies to preserve small and neighborhood businesses, to prevent renewable energy jobs from being exported out of the region, and to protect social security benefits for public safety personnel.

“I have endorsed Lorena Gonzalez because she has a proven track record of delivering for our communities in Chula Vista, South San Diego and National City.” Vargas said. “No one is more committed for fighting for the middle class than Lorena.”

Lorena is a candidate to replace State Senator-elect Ben Hueso in the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the City of San Diego neighborhoods of San Ysidro, City Heights, Barrio Logan, Sherman Heights, Otay Mesa, Paradise Hills and Golden Hill. The special election for the 80th Assembly District is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21.

Learn more about Lorena’s campaign at www.VoteLorena.com  or by e-mail at VoteLorena@gmail.com.

Victor Gonzalez Endorses Steve Castaneda for Assembly

Putting Community Before Self-Interest Matters

CHULA VISTA, Calif. – Being a problem solver and committed to the community, Victor Gonzalez, President of the San Diego County Chapter of the National Latino Peace Officers Association, proudly announces his support of Steve Castaneda for Assembly.

Gonzalez, a resident of the 80th Assembly District, and the NLPOA organization share a mission to honor family, education and community through service and mentorship.

“Steve Castaneda is the best candidate for Assembly in the 80th District because I know that his commitment to our community is genuine,” said Victor Gonzalez, President of the NLPOA’s San Diego County Chapter. “Steve has been serving our community for more than two decades and isn’t someone who recently moved into the district for personal or political gain.

“We have serious problems in our community and in our state and Steve Castaneda is the only candidate who has a proven track record of improving the lives of all people in our community.”
Gonzalez says that Castaneda is the best choice for the 80th Assembly District in the upcoming special election being held on May 21, 2013.       

About Steve Castaneda for State Assembly
Steve Castaneda, a fiscally conservative Democrat, is a small business owner and former Chula Vista councilmember. He is the father of two sons and is married to his wife, Tanya Mannes Castaneda. The 80th Assembly District is located in southwest California, encompassing portions of Chula Vista, National City and San Diego. The 80th District special election is a result of a vacancy created by former Assemblyman Ben Hueso's election to the California State Senate.

For more information, visit www.castanedaforassembly.com. Join our online communities on FaceBook and Twitter for campaign updates.

ATKINS HONORS WOMEN IN PUBLIC SERVICE

(San Diego)  In honor of Women’s History Month, Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins has recognized eight women from the 78th Assembly District who exemplify commitment to public service.  The women were honored at a reception in the Majority Leader’s San Diego district office.

“The women I am honoring today have worked tirelessly to improve their communities and the lives of others,” says Atkins.  “They are ideal role models for both young women and young men who aspire to make a difference through service.  I thank them all for helping to make the 78th Assembly District a vibrant, diverse, and outstanding place to live.”

The eight honorees are:

The Honorable Lee M. Haydu
Ms. Haydu’s service includes the San Dieguito Lagoon Committee, Del Mar Heights Elementary Site Council, Vice President and President of the PTA.  She is currently serving on the Del Mar City Council.
 
The Honorable Mary C. Herron
Ms. Herron was mayor of the City of Coronado in 1988, after having first been elected a City of Coronado Councilmember in 1978.  She has worked to end homelessness.

The Honorable Carrie A. Downey
Ms. Downey has been involved in League of Cities, Village Elementary PATT, Coronado Lion’s Club, Coronado Junior Woman’s Club, and Coronado Chamber of Commerce. She also served 8 years on the Coronado City Council.
 
Ms. Sara F. Moser 

Ms. Moser is a long-time supporter of Planned Parenthood and family planning.

Dr. Delores A. Jacobs 

As Chief Executive Officer of The San Diego Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Community Center, Dr. Jacobs manages one of the oldest, largest and most dynamic LGBT community centers in the country.

The Honorable Lesa Heebner 

A long-time resident of Solana Beach, Ms. Heebner worked to upgrade and revitalize the city and was involved in the Coastal Rail Trail, the Solana Beach View Assessment Committee and served on several Ad Hoc Committees for infrastructure improvements. She currently serves on the Solana Beach City Council and also served as Mayor.

The Honorable Patricia McCoy
Serving 12 years on the Imperial Beach City Council, this long-time IB resident played an integral role in the wildlife preservation movement and is credited with creating a refuge to protect some of the last coastal wetlands in California and ensuring the establishment of what is now known as the Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge, the San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge, and the Tijuana River National Estuarine Research Reserve

The Honorable Diane Rose
A long-time resident of Imperial Beach, Ms. Rose served 12 years on the City Council and as Mayor.  She also served on the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG,) the Metropolitan Transit System, the California League of Cities, and the federal board advising President Clinton and Congress on U.S.-Mexico border issues.  Rose has been dedicated to the preservation and improved quality of life that transformed Imperial Beach.

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Longtime Chula Vista Police Chief Strongly Endorses Steve Castaneda for Assembly

Public Safety and Commitment to Children in the Community Matters

CHULA VISTA, Calif. – Protecting public safety and an outstanding commitment to children are two major reasons retired Chula Vista Police Chief Bill Winters proudly supports Steve Castaneda for Assembly.

Winters, a resident of the 80th Assembly District, served as Chula Vista Police Chief from 1965 to 1992. Since his retirement from the police department, he has been heavily involved with South Bay Little League Baseball.

“I am proud to endorse Steve Castaneda for Assembly because I know that his dedication to public safety is unmatched,” said Bill Winters, Chula Vista’s Police Chief for 26 years. “Not only is Steve’s commitment to the residents of the 80th Assembly District unwavering, but his proven record of improving the lives of our kids is well documented.

“We’ve worked together on many things in the long time I’ve known him, but a perfect example of Steve’s ability to get things done for our community was when he took the lead in helping to repair a youth baseball facility in south Chula Vista.” 

Winters says that Castaneda is the best choice for the 80th Assembly District in the upcoming June 2013 special election.       

About Steve Castaneda for State Assembly

Steve Castaneda, a fiscally conservative Democrat, is a small business owner and former two-term Chula Vista councilmember. He is the father of two sons and is married to his beautiful and talented wife, Tanya Mannes Castaneda. The 80th Assembly District is located in southwest California, encompassing portions of Chula Vista, San Diego and National City. The 80th District special election is a result of an impending vacancy created by Assemblyman Ben Hueso's election to the California State Senate and will be held in early June 2013.

For more information, visit www.castanedaforassembly.com. Join our online communities on FaceBook and Twitter for campaign updates.

Community Rally to Protect Saturday Mail Delivery

March 24th Day of Action highlights need to protect six day postal delivery

[SAN DIEGO] – Concerned citizens will rally on Sunday, March 24 to protect Saturday mail delivery and demand that Congress deliver a better plan to strengthen the Postal Service for the future. The rally will take place at the Downtown Post Office, 815 E Street on March 24 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. All members of the community are invited to attend.

The Postal Service’s plan to shrink the Postal Service by ending six-day service is an attack on the future of this great institution, on the customers who need it and on the employees who support it. Many Americans — especially small-business owners, senior citizens and rural residents — would suffer if the strength and reach of our Postal Service is compromised. In addition, cutting Saturday mail delivery would delay important household and business transactions, including bills, invoices and personal communications, and may force customers to shift to high-cost competing services.

The U.S. Postal Service is America’s only universal communications network, reaching every address in America six days a week. Established by the Constitution and using no taxpayer funding for its operations, the Postal Service is a vital public institution that California cannot afford to see reduced or dismantled.

To learn more about the rally visit: http://action.deliveringforamerica.com/RallyforSixDay

WHEN:           11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sunday, March 24, 2013

WHERE:         Downtown Post Office, 815 E Street San Diego, CA 92101