Democratic House Candidate’s Campaign Is Perfect Model On How To Embrace Obamacare

From Politicsusa.com / By: Justin Baragona / Thursday, April, 24th, 2014, 12:24 pm

Over the past few months, I have featured James Kimber in a number of articles for this site. Kimber is the Democratic candidate for the US House of Representatives in California’s 50th Congressional district. He is running against Republican incumbent Duncan Hunter. Initially, I wrote off any chance that Kimber would have at winning this seat, as the demographics and Hunter’s name recognition (thanks largely to his father) seemed to create too much of a deficit to overcome.

Anyway, there has been a concerted effort to get Hunter included in Bill Maher’s ‘Flip A District’ bracket. Hunter himself appeared on Maher’s show recently and reinforced the notion that he is nothing more than a Republican hack with no actual ideas. Meanwhile, Kimber has pounded the pavement, speaking personally to many of the district’s residents, whether they are Republican, Democrat or independent.

Throughout his campaign, Kimber has made sure to not shy away from the Affordable Care Act. In fact, he’s fully embraced the law and engaged people directly in conversation about the law’s benefits. Kimber provided me with some details about how he has been able to discuss the ACA in a positive manner to everyday citizens and make them see past their partisan objections to the law. By embracing the law, Kimber has been able to get others to embrace it as well.
Below is a story from Kimber regarding a young patient he saw, as well as the patient’s father. Kimber currently works as a healthcare provider and the patient’s father seemed disdainful of the health care law. 
 

As a healthcare provider with 30 years experience, I am in a unique position to talk about healthcare and I never miss an opportunity to do so. All of my patients come from the district (CA-50) which spans 6,000 square miles and crosses two counties. Because most people in the district are Republicans, they all feel the need to express their opinion for ‘Obamacare’ but I’m equally comfortable answering their questions and dispelling the misinformation. Recently one of my patients was in for a follow-up and his father asked what I thought. The patient, a 17 year old had fallen from his skateboard with no helmet and suffered a broken skull with some bleeding on the brain. It sounds worse than it was; the boy actually only spent a couple of days in the hospital before going home.

He was now in for his first follow-up and doing fine. His father asked me “what do you think of ‘Obamacare’ (in sort of a snide tone). I knew what the father meant, so I told him: “I think I know what you think of ‘Obamacare’ so let me tell you what I think. I think your son will never get insurance”. That really got the dad’s attention. I then told him… “You son suffered a traumatic brain injury. It doesn’t get much worse than that. You took him to the hospital so it’s well documented and that will follow him around forever so he’ll never get insurance. Or, if he could get insurance it will be so expensive he won’t be able to afford it; or if he could afford it, it won’t provide him with all the coverage he would need. BUT, because of the Affordable Care Act, pre-existing conditions are a thing of the past and your son can get insurance.” The father was quiet for a minute or two and then looked at me and said “I never thought of it that way”.


Kimber also provided another example of changing a leery person’s mind. This person was actually antagonistic towards Kimber to start off, and Kimber was able to not only change his point of view, but actually assisted him with getting an affordable health plan.

I was at a Meet & Greet in Ramona (city within the 50th District). I was talking when a man who saw the crowd pulled his car over to see what was going on. He made his way up when he heard there was a “Democrat” speaking and he came directly up to me and exclaimed “I’m a Republican”. I told him that was great but he didn’t seem convinced so with a finger in my chest, he said again “NO, I’m really Republican!” And I replied back “okay, I really need your vote!”. And with that, I asked him what he wanted to discuss and he replied “healthcare”. I thought, great. This is perfect. The subject I enjoy talking about the most. So I asked him what kind of insurance he had and he told me he was uninsured. I couldn’t have asked for a better setup! He was mid 50′s, self-employed with a family and home. He takes care of his family, able to pay his bills but just can’t afford insurance for himself. We had a tablet with us and we were able to bring up the Covered CA website and in just a few steps we were able to show him how much it would cost him for a policy with good coverage. He was shocked when he found how little it would cost. The only thing he was upset about was that he couldn’t sign up right away – this was back in August and he was upset that he had to wait until October when the enrollment season opened up (he has since signed up for coverage and is still very happy).

As far as Hunter is concerned, Kimber didn’t let him off the hook. He pointed out that Hunter’s idea to repal the ACA and do nothing else is pretty similar to some people who didn’t know when to stop fighting a war that was long over.

I literally talk about healthcare to the voters every day while Mr. Hunter continues to tell people “repeal and defund ‘Obamacare’. Mr. Hunter is like one of those WWII Japanese soldiers who kept fighting after the surrender because they thought the war was still going on. One Japanese soldier didn’t surrender until 1974! I think someone needs to tell Mr. Hunter the war on ‘Obamacare’ is over. I meet people daily who have listened to all the misinformation regarding the Affordable Care Act and have been misled. But I’m able to explain to them why this is working and how it benefits them. As a healthcare provider, I’ve seen the direct effects; in the first two months of 2014 I had more new patients than all of 2013 and these are all people who had been newly insured and had been without insurance for years.

Kimber is showing us how Democrats across the country can speak positively about the Affordable Care Act and not run scared from it. It is a powerful weapon for Democrats to use against their GOP opponents. Considering the positive impact it is having for millions of Americans, the ACA should be used as a campaigning tool and a major platform for Dems to run on. Kimber realized that a while ago and his campaign is a wonderful example of how to embrace Obamacare.

Block measure allowing community colleges to offer four year degrees clears Senate Education Committee

SB 850 has 10 Democratic and Republican co-authors

A bill aimed at closing California’s job skills gap by allowing community colleges to offer four-year degrees where a local workforce need can be documented was approved today in the Senate Education Committee on an 8-0 bipartisan vote.

Senator Marty Block (SD-39), who authored the legislation – SB 850 – described his measure as a jobs bill. “California has a workforce skills gap,” Block said. “By 2025 our state will need one million more adults with four-year degrees. We need to use all of California’s resources – including our community colleges – to close that gap.” He added that more than 20 states since 1970 already allow community colleges to offer baccalaureate degrees.

Block’s proposal is a pilot program that would allow 15 campuses from 15 different districts to offer one baccalaureate degree each starting Jan.1, 2015 and ending in July 1, 2023. Programs would begin no later than the 2017-18 academic year.

Baccalaureate degrees offered at the chosen campuses could not be duplicative of degrees offered by the University of California (UC) or California State University (CSU) campuses. “It will be value added, not duplicative,” Block said. The state’s community college Board of Governors and Chancellor in consultation with the UC and CSU systems would select the participating districts and campuses.

Participating districts would also be required to submit a report to the Chancellor that examines the program’s success including:
    •    Percentage of students completing the baccalaureate degree,
    •    Fiscal self-sustainability of the pilot program,
    •    Difficulty in finding and paying instructors for the program,
    •    Decline in enrollments at the campuses in the regions served by the district as a result of the pilot program, and
    •    Number of students who received jobs in the field of study of their baccalaureate degree.

Block introduced SB 850 in January, and it is the third time he has introduced similar legislation.

Previous attempts included:
    •    AB 661 in 2011 which would have allowed Grossmont-Cuyamaca and the San Mateo Community College Districts to offer one baccalaureate pilot degree per campus. It was held on the inactive file on the Assembly Floor.

    •    AB 2400 in 2010 which would have authorized the San Diego, Grossmont-Cuyamaca and San Mateo districts to establish baccalaureate degree pilot programs. It was held in the Assembly Higher Education Committee.

“We’re in a different time now,” Block said to explain why he believes his third attempt will succeed. “California is in a better position now to invest in closing our skills gap. We are in a fast-paced race that we can’t afford to lose. Community colleges can help us meet the challenge. It’s wishful thinking to believe we can meet the challenge of producing another 60,000 bachelor degrees a year without using community colleges, and the longer we delay in using them, the further behind we will fall.”

Block observed that earlier in the week, another report underscored California’s lagging baccalaureate completion rate. He cited Tuesday’s release by the Lumina Foundation which stated that nearly 22.5 percent of the state’s adults have attended college and earned credits but have not earned a degree. That places California at 23rd among all states in college attainment.

SB 850 is supported by veterans and business organizations as well as numerous community college districts. Supporters include AMVETS, American Legion, the California State Commanders Veterans Council, the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers and at least 13 community college districts including those in San Diego, Los Angeles, Napa, and Imperial Counties. Business supporters include the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and the San Jose Silicon Valley and Oceanside Chambers of Commerce.

Block is chair of the Senate Budget Subcommittee #1 which deals with education financing and is a member of the Senate Education Committee. Prior to Block’s election to the Legislature, he served as president of the San Diego Community College District and as an administrator at San Diego State University.

###


Proudly representing the cities and communities of San Diego, Del Mar, Solana Beach, and Coronado

Planned Parenthood Action Fund Endorses Congressman Scott Peters

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Planned Parenthood Action Fund announced its endorsement of Congressman Scott Peters (CA-52) in his re-election bid to represent California’s 52nd Congressional District. Planned Parenthood Action Fund is the national advocacy and political arm of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

“Planned Parenthood Action Fund is proud to endorse Congressman Scott Peters, a true advocate for women’s rights,” said Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “Congressman Peters continues to defend women’s access to contraception, cancer screenings and other quality health care needs.  We need more leaders like him who will stand up for women’s health care and speak out against extreme efforts to restrict women’s rights. We’re facing one of the most hostile environments for women our nation has seen, and we must elect leaders who will protect a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions.”

In February, Planned Parenthood Action Fund announced the Women are Watching (WAW) campaign to educate voters about candidates’ positions on women’s health. Planned Parenthood advocacy and political organizations have become a powerful and effective force by educating voters about where their candidates stand on women’s health issues. The majority of Americans believe that a woman and her doctor, not politicians, should be making health care decisions.

Polling from the 2012 election shows that access to safe and legal abortion, affordable birth control, and basic health care are motivating voting issues for women, who view them as core economic issues for their families.  An overwhelming majority of women voters trust Planned Parenthood political and advocacy organizations when they speak out about issues affecting the health of women.

# # #

Planned Parenthood Action Fund is an independent, nonpartisan, not-for-profit membership organization formed as the advocacy and political arm of Planned Parenthood Federation of America. The Action Fund engages in educational and electoral activity, including voter education, grassroots organizing, and legislative advocacy.

Senate approves Block bill to speed human trafficking prosecutions and reduce victims’ trauma

SB 939 approved 33 to 30

SACRAMENTO – Legislation by Senator Marty Block (SD-39) to streamline prosecution of human trafficking charges and reduce the trauma of victims who testify against their traffickers was approved Monday in the Senate.

SB 939 would permit the consolidation of serial human trafficking, pimping, and pandering charges into a single trial if all the involved jurisdictions agree. Frequently, victims are taken to multiple cities and counties for labor and commercial sex exploitation. Prosecution involves trials in each of the multiple locations where the crimes occurred with victims testifying during each of the trials. Current law allows for the consolidation of other serial sexual offenses occurring in multiple jurisdictions.

“Human trafficking is among the most despicable and odious of crimes because traffickers treat victims as property to be used and sold,” Block said. “SB 939 will save money for our court system and will eliminate the need for victims, witnesses, and defendants to travel to multiple counties to testify in court proceedings. Currently, victims must travel to each jurisdiction where the crimes occurred and testify multiple times in front of their traffickers. Multiple trials only repeat the trauma.”

Block noted that human trafficking is of particular concern in San Diego. “This is a priority issue for me as San Diego is ranked at number eight out of the top 13 high intensity regions for child prostitution in the nation,” Block said. “More troubling, human trafficking cases filed in San Diego federal court have increased by more than 600 percent over the past five years according to a U.S. attorney’s report last year,” he added.

While in the Assembly, Block successfully authored a measure to help stem human trafficking,  AB 2212, which allows local law enforcement to shut down sites engaged in human trafficking as a per se nuisance. It also allows financial penalties to be levied against the property owners of the sites to help fund programs for victims.

Last year, Block introduced SB 473 which would add human trafficking to the list of crimes used to define a criminal street gang under the Street Terrorism Enforcement and Prevention Act. SB 473 would ensure that the prosecution and punishment of gang members exploiting human lives is comparable to the prosecution of gang members engaged in robbery and narcotic sales. It is now in the Assembly.

“We can’t fight this insidious crime one jurisdiction at a time. Human trafficking is a massive and lucrative enterprise that must be fought collectively by pooling our resources and multiplying the impact of every justice system effort,” Block said.

SB 939 is co-sponsored by the District Attorneys of Riverside, San Diego, Alameda and Orange Counties.

###

Sierra Club and League of Conservation Voters Endorse Sarah Boot for San Diego City Council District 2

SAN DIEGO – Today, Sarah Boot was endorsed by two prominent national environmental organizations in her run for San Diego City Council District 2. The Sierra Club and the League of Conservation Voters evaluated all candidates in the race and determined that former prosecutor Sarah Boot’s commitment to environmental protection and her leadership on coastal issues make her the clear choice for environmentalists in the race.

Livia Borak, President of the League of Conservation Voters San Diego (LCVSD) said, “LCVSD is proud to endorse Sarah Boot for District 2. Sarah is an intelligent and thoughtful candidate with a strong conservation ethic. As a coastal district representative, we know Sarah will make clean water and beaches, resource protection, and preservation of open spaces a priority. We're looking forward to continued support of Sarah, our future environmental champion.”

The Sierra Club issued a statement by Robert Holland of the San Diego Chapter saying, “The Sierra Club is pleased to announce our endorsement of Sarah Boot's campaign for San Diego's City Council. Sarah has a long history of supporting environmental causes and is committed to redirecting resources to preserve San Diego's beaches and bays. Sarah's commitment to advocating for renewable energy sources, safe drinking water, and clean beaches make her the environmentalist's choice for San Diego City Council.” 

Boot had this to say about her recent endorsements, “I’m especially proud on the 44th anniversary of Earth Day to announce the endorsement of my campaign by leaders in the environmental movement.” Boot added, “If elected, I am 100% committed to protecting our beaches and bays, guarding our open spaces, and serving as a voice for the coast.”

Mexican American Business & Professional Association Endorses Scott Peters for Congress

‘Peters is best choice for Latinos and small businesses’

San Diego – The Mexican American Business & Professional Association (MABPA) has endorsed Congressman Scott Peters for re-election over a field of challengers in the race for the 52nd Congressional District. MABPA, a nonpartisan organization which regularly hosts prominent San Diego Republicans and Democrats, was an early and influential endorser of Congressman Peters’ successful campaign in 2012.

“Scott's Congressional leadership has provided crucial support for investment in San Diego, which helps boost our innovation economy, improve cross-border economic ties, and provide more opportunities for Latinos and small businesses," said MABPA President Josie Calderon. "We're proud to continue our support of an effective advocate for San Diego who's delivered on his promises in Congress.”

“I went to Congress committed to breaking through the partisan divisions to provide support for our local businesses,” said Peters. “I've worked hard to build support for more investment in our local economy and reached across the aisle to reduce regulations that block business growth. Together with partners like MABPA, we’re proving that San Diego knows how to create jobs while protecting and improving our quality of life. I’m honored to have earned the trust of these business leaders.”

Founded in 1978, the Mexican American Business & Professional Association (MABPA) is an organization whose mission is to foster leadership and access in the service of prosperity for all San Diego communities. MABPA’s robust membership actualizes its mission with an informed focus on the Business, Education, Community Leadership, and Legislative domain. They aim to increase participation and to actively address issues that affect our region and affirmatively voice their view.

Local LGBT Leaders Join HRC to Announce Endorsement of Scott Peters for Congress

SAN DIEGO – San Diego LGBT leaders joined the The Human Rights Campaign – the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization – today to announce their endorsement of Rep. Scott Peters for re-election to the U.S. House in California’s 52nd district. Peters has a stellar record on LGBT equality and has been steadfast in his support of marriage equality in California and across the country.

"Scott Peters has proved himself to be a leader and a strong advocate for equality," said Fred Sainz, HRC Vice President for Communications. "As the nation moves rapidly to embrace full LGBT equality, Scott’s voice on Capitol Hill will echo those of his fair-minded constituents and Americans across the country."

"I've been proud to work alongside HRC for years in the fight for full equal rights for everyone," Peters said. "My father fought for racial equality during the civil rights movement when I was young, and I'm proud to continue that legacy at the forefront of the battle for full LGBT equality, the most important civil rights issue of our time."

In San Diego, members of HRC San Diego were joined by City Council President Todd Gloria, former State Senator Christine Kehoe, and Stampp Corbin, former Co-Chair of the 2008 Obama for America presidential campaign's National LGBT Leadership Council, and National Board of Directors emeritus for the Human Rights Campaign, 1995-2003, and other community leaders.

"Scott Peters has demonstrated throughout his career the ability to achieve bipartisan progress and the courage to speak out for equal rights," said Council President Gloria. "He has the deeply-held sense of justice and commitment to full equality that San Diegans can count on to move our country closer to achieving the civil rights victory of our generation."

Scott Peters "is a long-time true supporter of full equality for LGBT San Diegans," said former Senator Christine Kehoe, who was the city's first openly gay elected official. "And more than that, he's able to work with all parties to get things done, to move things forward, to avoid gridlock, and to be a strong representative for the people of his congressional district, for our city, and for our state."

"Scott Peters has always been on the side of justice equality and fundamental fairness for all Americans," said Tanner Songer, political co-chair of HRC San Diego, echoing the endorsement of the national organization. "The greatest challenges lie ahead of us, and we can't continue our momentum without allies like Scott on our side."

"For the LGBT community, the choice could not be more clear: One political party that supports our equality and one that doesn't," emphasized Corbin. "So when you cast your vote in November, as I will with all my heart, that vote should be for Congressman Scott Peters' reelection."

County Supervisor Dave Roberts also issued an endorsement statement, saying:

"Congressman Scott Peters deserves the support of the LGBT community. He has been a stalwart supporter of equality. Congressman Peters works hard for all San Diego County residents. It is important to me that elected officials work together, regardless of party affiliation. We agree that the citizens and our region come first."

Peters is a strong supporter of LGBT equality, including marriage equality. He is a cosponsor of the Respect for Marriage Act (RMA) which would repeal the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) in its entirety. He also is also a cosponsor of the Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA), the Safe Schools Improvement Act, the Domestic Partnership Benefits and Obligations Act and other key legislation.

The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against LGBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all.

Speaker John A. Pérez Creates Select Committee on Women in the Workplace, Names Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez as Chair

SACRAMENTO — (Tuesday, April 8, 2014) – California State Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez today announced the creation of the Assembly Select Committee on Women in the Workplace and named Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) as its chair.

“I have formed the Select Committee on Women in the Workplace with the expectation that it will address the whole range of issues from wages to working conditions and everything in between,” said Speaker Pérez (D-Los Angeles). “I have asked Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez to lead this important effort. She is a talented and thoughtful advocate for California’s women, and I am confident she will put forward innovative and insightful suggestions on ways we can close the gap and ensure every woman in California earns a fair wage for the work she does.”

Speaker Pérez made the announcement on Equal Pay Day, part of an ongoing national campaign to increase awareness about pay inequality for working women.

“Equal Pay Day is our annual reminder that more and more families are relying on women to be breadwinners and that our economy works best when we acknowledge and accommodate the realities working women face,” said Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego). “As a single working mother myself, I face this reality every day and I am very excited to work with my colleagues to seek solutions that break down barriers to employment, accommodate women’s roles in their families as well as their jobs, and bring a greater dose of equity to the workplace.”

The Select Committee on Women in the Workplace will focus on challenges faced by women in the workforce including the changing role of women in society, how to ensure pay equity and opportunity for women, the health and well-being of women in the workplace, and the impact on family life.

The members of the Select Committee on Women in the Workplace are:

Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland)
Assemblymember Nora Campos (D-San Jose)
Assemblymember Brian Dahle (R- Bieber)
Assemblymember Cristina Garcia (D-Bell Gardens)
Assemblymember Roger Hernández (D-West Covina)
Assemblymember Marc Levine (D-San Rafael)
Assemblymember Henry Perea (D-Fresno)
Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva (D-Fullerton)
Assemblymember Nancy Skinner (D-Los Angeles)
Assemblymember Marie Waldron (R-Escondido)

 Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez represents the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the San Diego neighborhoods of City Heights, Barrio Logan, Paradise Hills, San Ysidro and Otay Mesa. For more information, visit http://asmdc.org/members/a80/.

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez Reaffirms Support for Captive Orca Welfare and Safety Act

A.B. 2140, Which Would End Captive Orca Performances, Will Be Considered by Gonzalez and Committee Colleagues Tuesday

SACRAMENTO – (Monday, April 7, 2014) – California State Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) made the following statement about Assembly Bill 2140 (Bloom) in anticipation of the Assembly Committee on Water, Parks and Wildlife’s consideration of the bill on Tuesday morning:

“Upon learning a few weeks ago that Assemblyman Bloom would be authoring Assembly Bill 2140, I told the media that I was inclined to support his proposal. Since then, I have studied the issue carefully and consulted with many experts involved in the debate – including representatives from SeaWorld and independent experts in the field – in hopes of understanding the landmark changes Mr. Bloom is hoping to accomplish with A.B. 2140.

“Barring any new information that could change my mind tomorrow, I plan to strongly support A.B. 2140 and vote to bring an end to the practice of holding orcas in captivity solely for entertainment purposes in California.  As a longtime advocate for the environment and for worker safety, I am greatly concerned by the practice of confining orcas’ living environments, sequestering them from their natural social organizations, forcing them to perform circus tricks for huge profits, and endangering the well-being of employees by putting them in hazardous situations. Of these, I’m most familiar with the attempts by the local operator of orca shows to oppose measures to increase worker safety and that unfortunately doesn’t bode well for their credibility on the other issues raised by A.B. 2140.

“SeaWorld’s most compelling arguments to continue the performance of captive orcas for entertainment purposes have been economic in nature. The reason to carry on with these dangerous orca performances, SeaWorld says, is because they generate profits.

 
“To those who oppose this legislation, I take no satisfaction in making two predictions:  First—you on the wrong side of history, and that within my lifetime this indefensible practice will be outlawed. Second – tragically, another employee will be hurt or killed by a distressed orca, and predictably, management will blame the victim and call it ‘trainer error.’ Neither of those facts can be justified by profits.”

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez represents the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the San Diego neighborhoods of City Heights, Barrio Logan, Paradise Hills, San Ysidro and Otay Mesa. For more information, visit http://asmdc.org/members/a80/.

Block urges national ban on cosmetic animal testing

SJR 22 approved by State Senate and heads to Assembly; Mayim Bialik ‘Big Bang Theory’ actress, Cruelty Free International supporter endorses SJR 22

SACRAMENTO – California’s Senate today approved a measure by State Senator Marty Block (SD-39) that urges the U.S to join California, the European Union (EU), and the countries of Norway, India, and Israel in banning animal testing of cosmetic products.

Block’s joint resolution, SJR 22, approved on a bipartisan vote of 31-0, urges the federal government to mandate alternative methods to animal testing when other testing methods are available. It is sponsored by Cruelty Free International and also supported by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Animal Legal Defense Fund, the State Humane Association and others.

“Unnecessary cruelty is unforgiveable,” Block said. “Animal testing by the cosmetics industry is usually unnecessary and often unreliable. Where other means of ensuring product safety are available, they should be used.”

“Cruel” tests on rabbits, guinea pigs and mice include force-feeding of animals with testing substances or repeated application of substances to an animal’s skin. After the experiments, the animals are then killed. Block and Cruelty Free International argue that more reliable, quicker, and less expensive alternatives are available and should be used. Alternatives include computer modeling and tests on human skin donated from cosmetic surgery or examination of proteins in-vitro (in a test tube).

Actress Mayim Bialik who portrays Amy Farrah Fowler on the hit show “The Big Bang Theory” is a Cruelty Free International supporter. “I am thrilled to join Senator Marty Block in asking the California Legislature to support SJR 22, the Cruelty Free Cosmetics Resolution.” She added, “For over a decade California has been a leader in supporting the use of modern non-animal tests to ensure cosmetics safety. It’s time that the rest of the nation catches up with California as well as other counties on this issue. I am proud to stand with Senator Block in calling for cruelty free testing.”

North America Campaign Manager for Cruelty Free International Monica Engebretson also emphasized that product safety is possible without the use of the older, more inhumane testing. “Our success in ending cosmetics testing on animals in the European Union has proven that it is possible and safe to create cosmetics without animal testing,” Engebretson said.

California became the first state to restrict animal testing in 2000. Some countries such as those in the EU have completely banned the importation and sale of animal-tested products. EU sales account for nearly half of the global cosmetics market.

SJR 22 also calls on the U.S. Congress to enact legislation that would establish reasonable deadlines for the prohibition on the testing and marketing of products which have been tested on animals.

NEW AD: DCCC Launches ‘Battleground: Middle Class’ Ad Against Carl DeMaio’s Republican Budget

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is launching the first phase of a sweeping nationwide paid effort – “Battleground: Middle Class” – to communicate with voters in California that candidate Carl DeMaio’s new Republican budget is selling out the middle class in favor of  special interests and the ultra-wealthy.

The “Battleground: Middle Class” project will reach voters through paid advertising, efforts to connect them to their representatives and field efforts in their neighborhoods and at their homes.

Carl DeMaio and House Republicans’ new budget was unveiled Tuesday, and highlights include: raising taxes on middle class families, ending the Medicare guarantee for seniors and turning Medicare into a voucher program, and costing our economy 1.1 million jobs next year alone – all while heaping tax breaks on corporations that ship jobs overseas.

 
“Carl DeMaio’s new Republican budget is the clearest illustration yet that he is not on the side of California’s middle class families – DeMaio’s Republican budget rewards the special interests and the wealthy who need help the least, and does it on the backs of the middle class,” said Josh Schwerin of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. “The people of California cannot afford DeMaio’s reckless budget that costs jobs, threatens middle class families’ financial security, raises their taxes, and ends the Medicare guarantee for California seniors, while giving more handouts to the corporations and special interests that are shipping our jobs overseas.”

A copy of the ad running in the district can be seen here:
http://dccc.org/page/-/republicanbudget/index.html









BACKGROUND:


Economic Policy Institute: Republican Budget Proposal Could Cost 1.1 Million Jobs in the Next Fiscal Year.  “On net, I estimate that the House budget resolution would decrease GDP by 0.9 percent and decrease nonfarm payrolls by 1.1 million jobs in fiscal year 2015, relative to CBO’s current-law baseline. The following fiscal year, when Ryan’s cuts to discretionary spending kick in, ‘The Path to Prosperity’ would decrease GDP by 2.5 percent and cost 3.0 million jobs. And if the recovery remains sluggish, large job losses could continue under the Ryan budget in 2017 and beyond.” [Economic Policy Institute, 4/01/14]

AARP: Republican Budget Would Remove the Medicare Guarantee. “Chairman Ryan’s proposed budget fails to address the high costs of health care and instead shifts costs onto seniors and future retirees. Repealing the benefits of the Affordable Care Act ignores the progress we’ve made to improve access to health care and protect against discrimination based on age, gender or medical history. Removing the Medicare guarantee of affordable health coverage for older Americans by implementing a premium support system and asking seniors and future retirees to pay more is not the right direction.” [AARP Press Release, 4/01/14]

New York Times: Republican Budget Would Lower Taxes for the Wealthy While Raising Taxes on the Middle Class by $2,000. “The budget lowers the top tax rate to 25 percent for the wealthiest taxpayers, down from the current 39.6 percent, while raising taxes on middle-class families with children by an average of $2,000.” [New York Times Editorial, 4/01/14]

“SLOW TRAFFIC” ENDORSES JAMES KIMBER FOR CONGRESS

This is not your typical campaign endorsement.  Our first fundraiser was held at a restaurant, La Bella Vita, in Temecula.   There was a band playing at the restaurant and when the time came for the candidate to speak, the band stopped playing to come back and listen.  When the speech was over, the band leader, Joe (a professed Libertarian) said he liked what the candidate had to say.  The band left to finish playing their set when someone said to go out and listen to what the band was playing.  We went out and the band was playing a song they created on the fly, “Vote for Kimber”.  Later the band recorded the song in a studio and just recently put a video to the song as a music video endorsement the campaign.

Temecula, CA –April 1, 2014 –Not your typical endorsement, a local band, “Slow Traffic”, has endorsed James H. Kimber, Democratic candidate for California’s 50th Congressional District in a music video. The lead guitarist of the group, Joe Mullenix, a self-professed Libertarian, first met Kimber at a fundraiser at La Bella Vita in Temecula, CA. While “Slow Traffic” was not part of the fundraiser, they stopped to listen to the candidate during his speech. Joe Mullenix was so moved by the candidate’s words, he did an impromptu song, “Vote for Kimber” at the event. Later, Mr. Mullenix recorded the song and video as a visual endorsement for the candidate. The video can be seen on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSoZkmhxRBU.

Kimber, who served 20 years on active duty service in the United States Navy. As a veteran, Kimber knows there are issues involving veterans that are being inadequately addressed such as the rising rate of veteran homelessness, the epidemic of suicides and lack of mental health, and the increasing violence against women in the military. “We owe our veterans the basic help they deserve for all they have sacrificed for this great country.”
Kimber has 30 years of healthcare experience and practices as a Physician Assistant in Neurosurgery in Escondido, CA and is on Medical Staff at Palomar Medical Center. He knows there is much more to do with healthcare reform and states “we can’t go back to millions of people without insurance or people being denied health insurance for pre-existing conditions. “

Kimber supports immigration reform with a pathway to citizenship. “There is a way to fix the current system but only if we all work together. Immigration reform is long overdue and people are tired of hearing excuses for why Congress won’t act on it now. The time for immigration reform is now!”

For more information, please visit our website http://www.kimberforcongress.com/

Carl DeMaio Owes Voters an Answer on Budget

 

Today San Diego County Democratic Party Chair Francine Busby released the following statement in response to the news that Congressman Paul Ryan and House Republicans introduced a new budget that will again attack Medicare:

“The budget plan of Carl DeMaio’s House Republican allies would raise Medicare costs on San Diego families and slash Pell Grants for students while cutting taxes for the wealthy. If DeMaio really wants to join this toxic Republican Congress, he needs to give voters a clear answer on whether he would support it or not.

"After DeMaio called it a 'decent start' last year, San Diego voters deserve to know whether he supports a Republican plan that tries to balance the budget on the backs of the middle class. As the national Republicans' hand-picked choice, Carl DeMaio cannot credibly win a primary election without giving a straight answer about his support for the Republican budget that would cuts jobs and raises Medicare costs on San Diego families."

BACKGROUND:  

DeMaio Called the Ryan Plan a “Decent Start” and said It Contained Some “Good Ideas.” In 2013, DeMaio praised Paul Ryan’s budget plan, calling it a “decent start” that contained good ideas. “People have said what do you think about Paul Ryan’s budget. It’s a decent start. There are some good ideas in it,” said DeMaio. [Temple Adat Shalom Men’s Club, 9/15/13]

Economic Policy Institute: Republican Budget Proposal Could Cost 3 Million Jobs.  “On net, I estimate that the House budget resolution would decrease GDP by 0.9 percent and decrease nonfarm payrolls by 1.1 million jobs in fiscal year 2015, relative to CBO’s current-law baseline. The following fiscal year, when Ryan’s cuts to discretionary spending kick in, 'The Path to Prosperity' would decrease GDP by 2.5 percent and cost 3.0 million jobs. And if the recovery remains sluggish, large job losses could continue under the Ryan budget in 2017 and beyond.” [Economic Policy Institute, 4/01/14]

Republican Budget Proposal Would Raise Taxes for Middle Class Families by $2,000. “White House press secretary Jay Carney said in a statement that Ryan’s plan would ‘raise taxes on middle-class families with children by an average of at least $2,000 in order to cut taxes for households with incomes over $1 million.’” [Businessweek, 4/01/14]

Republican Budget Proposal Would Turn Medicare into a “Voucher-Style Program.”  “Ryan's plan recycles several proposals from previous years that remain popular with GOP lawmakers, including repealing the benefits of the Affordable Care Act. But he keeps the taxes and cuts to Medicare mandated by the law. He calls for privatizing Medicare by changing it from an entitlement program into a voucher-style program.” [Washington Post, 4/01/14]

Republican Budget Proposal Would Make Deep Cuts to Education. “The measure also promises deep, probably unrealistic cuts to domestic programs like education, health research and grants to local governments that are funded each year through annual appropriations bills.” [ABC News, 4/01/14]

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez’s Campaign Fundraising Reform at School and College Districts Passes Assembly Elections Committee

AB 1431 by Gonzalez Proposes A Ban on School & College Board Fundraising by District Superintendents & Administrators

SACRAMENTO – (Tuesday, April 1, 2014) – The California State Assembly’s Elections and Redistricting Committee approved legislation authored by Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) today that would ban School and College District superintendents and administrators from raising campaign cash for the board members that they serve.

Under Assembly Bill 1431, administrators at California’s public school districts and community college districts would be prohibited from soliciting contributions on behalf of the campaigns and legal defense funds of candidates and incumbent board members that govern those districts. Violators would be subject to penalties assessed by the state’s Fair Political Practices Commission.

That practice – alleged in several of the ongoing corruption cases involving officials at southern San Diego County’s Sweetwater Union High School District, San Ysidro School District and Southwestern College – created a troublesome dynamic between staff and board members at those districts. In the allegations, administrators raised money for their board members from contractors with business before their districts, allowing them to exert inappropriate influence over their own job security with the boards that hired them as well as the process for selecting contractors to rebuild and revamp the districts’ campuses.

“These corruption cases have become a huge distraction to our goal of improving public education opportunities in the South Bay, and the common thread in these cases is that administrators were improperly acting as political moneymen for board members’ campaigns,” Gonzalez said. “There are currently no statewide campaign finance restrictions for school and college board elections and this bill will stop the conflicts of interest that are perceived by the public in the best case scenario or real in the instances of the unfortunate scandals at our schools in south San Diego County.”

The bill was supported by Assembly Elections and Redistricting Committee Chair Paul Fong of San Jose and Assemblymembers Henry Perea, Freddie Rodriguez, Isadore Hall and Kevin Mullin.

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez represents the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the San Diego neighborhoods of City Heights, Barrio Logan, Paradise Hills, San Ysidro and Otay Mesa. For more information, visit http://asmdc.org/members/a80/.

###

SPEAKER-ELECT TONI ATKINS RECOGNIZES COMMUNITY LEADERS AS WOMEN OF THE YEAR FOR THE 78TH ASSEMBLY DISTRICT

(San Diego) In recognition of Women’s History Month, Majority Leader Toni Atkins today honored nine leaders from throughout her Assembly district for their accomplishments at a Women of the Year Awards ceremony at the State of California building in downtown San Diego.  Hailing from all parts of the extended 78th Assembly District, these women have found success in medicine, law, entrepreneurship, community organizing, and environmental advocacy.

“Women are leaders in every aspect of our society, yet they are not always recognized for their accomplishments” says Atkins. “The women I honor today have made San Diego a better place and are role models for both young men and young women in our community.  I thank them for their service.”

Speaker-elect Toni Atkins honors the Women of the Year for the 78th Assembly District.  From left to right: Hon. Patricia Ann Yim Cowett, Gerri Retman-Opper, Cincy Greatrex, Barbara Bry, Speaker-elect Atkins, Dr. Betty Jones, Linda LeGerrette, Mayda Winter, Patricia McQuater, Nancy Weare

Barbara Bry – La Jolla
Barbara is a serial entrepreneur whose passion is leveling the playing field for women and girls in business, health care and politics.  Currently, she is the chief operating officer of Blackbird Ventures, which invests in and incubates early stage technology companies.  She teaches entrepreneurship at UC San Diego and is the founder of Athena San Diego, the leading organization for women in the San Diego technology and life sciences community.  She was the first editor of the non-profit investigative news site, Voice of San Diego.

Bry is also the founder of Run Women Run, a non-partisan political action committee that identifies, inspires, mentors, trains and supports pro-choice women in San Diego for both elected and appointed offices.

The Hon. Patricia Ann Yim Cowett - Coronado
Judge Cowett is a recently retired judge of the San Diego Superior Court.  She was the first woman of Chinese descent to be appointed to the California bench and as best as records can tell, the first in the nation.  She was a deputy city attorney for the City of San Diego, an attorney for the state Department of Transportation, and in-house litigation counsel for SDG&E before being appointed by Governor Brown to the bench in 1979.

She was the founder of the Pan Asian Lawyers of San Diego and the Asian American Judges of California.  She served on numerous boards and commissions including the Judicial Nominations and Evaluation Commission of the State Bar.  Since retiring in 2008, Judge Cowett has been acting as a private mediator and arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association and ADR Services, Inc.

Ms. Cindy Greatrex – La Jolla
Cindy is employed in the field of biotechnology, providing remote medical care via software and other medical devices, as well as genomics sequencing so that companies can decode and analyze molecular structures.

She serves on several boards in San Diego, and is currently president of the La Jolla Town Council and Independent La Jolla,  a membership based community organization comprised of citizens united by their deep concern for La Jolla’s future.

In greater San Diego, Cindy serves as board member of Access Youth Academy; Adopt-a-Special Kid, a national organization enabling adoptions from foster care, focusing on LGBT and single-parent adoptions; International Orphan Care of San Diego, which assists orphans from Afghanistan to be productive and educated; Hatech, a telecommunication foundation for the deaf; and the San Diego-Jalalabad Sister Cities foundation, which provides medical and education services to Afghan civilians.

Dr. Elizabeth Jones  - Coronado
Dr. Jones specializes in providing international programs promoting good health in infants and children.  She has worked for Scripps Metabolic Clinic and Research Foundation; Scripps Green Hospital; Mercy Hospital; Wellstart International; and has volunteered in Tijuana since 1976, teaching nutrition for patients, families, paraprofessionals and physicians.

Together with Dr. Chong-King, a highly regarded Tijuana pediatric surgeon, she founded the Foundation for the Children of the Californias, a tri-national collaboration between Canada, the U.S. and Mexico.  This pediatric facility has expanded to 25 specialties, providing more than 380,000 consultations; 9,500 surgeries; 280,000 hours of education; 350 volunteer hours and many outreach programs serving impoverished areas.

Linda LeGerrette – Golden Hill, San Diego
Linda is a founding member of the César Chávez Service Clubs, an organization dedicated to teaching our youth to believe in themselves and to know that they can make a difference and where they learn the values of leadership and organizational skills necessary for participation in a democratic society. Because of her hard work, leadership and direction, the Chávez Service Clubs are the fastest growing youth leadership club in San Diego.

Along with her husband Carlos, their dual achievements include being organizers and confidantes for the late United Farm Workers president, César E. Chávez.  They are also pioneers and developers of the Price Club (now Costco), field office director and coordinators for San Diego City Schools’ successful $1.5 billion dollar school construction bond and numerous other political and neighborhood campaigns. For the past six years, Linda has successfully dedicated her life to the campaign of home health care workers and their struggle for collective bargaining rights and respect.

Pat McQuater – San Diego
Pat has been an attorney and manager for more than 25 years in the legal department of a Fortune 500 corporation - Solar Turbines/Caterpillar. Recently retired, she remains engaged in the legal profession as an arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association. She has been recognized as one of San Diego’s top corporate counselors.

As passionate about civic responsibility as she is about professional excellence, Pat’s leadership in the San Diego community includes serving on several high profile boards, including the San Diego Convention Center Corporation, Urban League of San Diego, Girl Scouts of San Diego/Imperial Council, Rady Children’s Hospital, and the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory.  She was the first African-American woman appointed to the San Diego Board of Port/Airport Commissioners, which she chaired for 8 ½ years.

Gerri Retman-Opper- Solana Beach
As a 30-year resident of Solana Beach, Gerri has managed numerous political campaigns, helping to change the Solana Beach City Council to a majority Democrat elected body.  She served as the chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission, where she developed and organized many annual community-building events,  including the well-known "Beach Blanket Movie Night," as well as the "Holiday Tree Lighting" and "Paws in the Park".  She is a recipient of the California Parks and Recreation Society Volunteer Recognition Award.

Gerri is most proud of her successful effort to save the 3.44 acre parcel of land known as the Gateway Property for open space. She has also successfully fought against numerous development proposals that threatened public views, community character, and the fragile ecology of the nearby San Elijo Lagoon.

Nancy Weare – Del Mar
Nancy has played a key role in the protection of sensitive environmental areas in the Del Mar area.  She helped found the Del Mar Lagoon Committee and the San Dieguito River Valley Land Conservancy for the purpose of protecting, revitalizing and managing two of the most important and productive ecosystems in the world. The San Dieguito Lagoon Resource Enhancement Program was ultimately adopted as an official planning tool by the City of Del Mar and received many national and local awards, including an Orchid for Environmental Design from the San Diego Architects Association in 1987. Nancy was also recognized for her work with a Joint Powers Authority to restore and preserve the San Dieguito Lagoon and its river valley watershed.

Nancy was president of the San Dieguito River Valley Land Conservancy for its first 6 years of existence. Its goal was to preserve and restore the 65-mile long San Dieguito River watershed from source to ocean and encouraged the formation of a multi-jurisdictional task force under the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) for the purpose of creating the San Dieguito River Valley Park.

Mayda Winter – Imperial Beach
Mayda works as a project/grant administrator for the Southwest Wetlands Interpretive Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and restoration of coastal wetlands.  For the past 14 years, she has managed numerous restoration projects in and around the Tijuana River Valley, most notably, the South San Diego Bay Wetland Restoration Project that returned tidal exchange and improved water circulation to over 230 acres of former salt production ponds, restoring a wide range of historical coastal habitats.

Mayda was elected to the Imperial Beach City Council in 1996 and re-elected in 2000 and 2004.  During her 12 years as a councilmember, she served as vice-chair of the Metro Wastewater Joint Powers Authority, on the board of directors for SANDAG, and two terms as president of the League of California Cities.  Her community ties include five years as co-chair of the Imperial Beach Chili & Jazz Association and ten years on the executive board of the South Bay Union School District Education Foundation. She currently chairs the City of Imperial Beach Redevelopment Successor Agency Oversight Board.

###

Steve Padilla Builds Momentum In City Council Campaign

 

Padilla leads in fundraising and gains additional endorsements from
local Chamber of Commerce and State Representative

CHULA VISTA – Steve Padilla continued to build momentum for his campaign for Chula Vista City Council Seat 1 announcing new endorsements today and leading the field of candidates in fundraising according to just filed campaign finance reports.
 


Recently filed campaign finance reports show Padilla leads all candidates for City Council Seat 1 in total money raised, total contributions this year and cash on hand.  Padilla has raised over $20,000 for his City Council race.  Crucially, Padilla’s committee also has no debt and has taken out no loans.  Padilla’s lead this month continues a fundraising advantage he established last year.  Campaign finance reports are publicly available documents available at the City Clerk’s office.
 


Today, Padilla’s campaign also announced it has earned endorsements from Chula Vista’s elected state representatives, Assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez and State Senator Ben Hueso.
 


“I am humbled by the outpouring of support for my campaign for City Council,” said Steve Padilla.  “I am running for City Council to put progress ahead of politics and work with all sides to get things done for Chula Vista’s middle class.  The campaign is gaining momentum by the day with support from residents, small business owners, law enforcement and leading elected officials from every neighborhood in Chula Vista.”
 


In addition to his fundraising advantage and the endorsements from Gonzalez and Hueso, Padilla has earned multiple key endorsements in recent weeks.  In mid-march, the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce endorsed Padilla’s campaign for City Council.  The Chamber’s endorsement comes on the heels of endorsements from leading law enforcement groups: the Chula Vista Police Officers Association, Chula Vista Firefighters Association, San Diego County Deputy Sheriffs Association, and the San Diego Chapter of the Peace Officers Research Association of CA (PORAC).   Padilla is also supported by the San Diego County Democratic Party, San Diego Labor Council and Chula Vista Employees Association.



Steve Padilla is a small business owner, environmental advocate and lifelong Chula Vistan.  He is a former police officer who previously served on the Chula Vista City Council, as Chula Vista Mayor and Port Commissioner.  He lives in the Otay Ranch section of Chula Vista.

San Diego Security Officers Launch Campaign for Good Jobs

San Diego, CA | As the national debate over income inequality rages on, San Diego security officers joined local elected officials, faith, labor and community groups to launch their campaign for good jobs in the security industry at a town hall today.

Detailed in a new report, “Secure Good Jobs for All of San Diego,” raising standards for more than 9,000 private sector security officers in the area would inject $244 million into the local economy and help reverse a recent trend of declining middle-class jobs in San Diego.  

While private sector security officers in San Diego report a medium hourly wage of $10.50, sometimes a low at $9.00, with limited access to healthcare or benefits, security officers in Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay Area, who have joined together in a union, are paid a minimum of $12.55 an hour, have employer-paid healthcare, paid sick days, vacation days and holidays along with a stronger voice on the job.

“I take my job seriously because I’m a first responder charged with keeping people safe,” said a security officer from San Diego. “Security officers put our lives on the line. We should at least have good jobs with pay you can raise a family on, affordable healthcare and full-time hours.”

"Before we had a union there was always uncertainty – nothing was guaranteed," said Mike Malley, a union security officer from San Francisco. "Now with a union contract, we have consistent hours and a stable schedule. Our pay has improved which means I’m no longer living paycheck to paycheck. I can pay my rent and have money leftover for bills and to live an enjoyable life. I have the peace of mind that comes with affordable healthcare and the dignity that comes with being treated with respect on the job."

Joining security officers at the campaign launch were San Diego City Councilmembers Sherri Lightner, Todd Gloria and David Alvarez, representatives for state and federal elected officials and a broad coalition of faith, labor and community organizations dedicated to lifting the local economy with good jobs.

"We’re here today to stand with security officers who are taking the brave step of joining together to improve their jobs," said San Diego City Council President Todd Gloria. "It’s a step they need to take to support their families. And it’s a step we all need them to take so we can start turning San Diego’s economy around and lifting our communities with better jobs."

###

SEIU United Service Workers West represents more than 40,000 janitors, security officers, airport workers, and other property service workers across California. For more information on security officers around the country joining together for better jobs, please visit www.StandForSecurity.org. 

Legislative Committee Explores Solutions to San Diego’s Higher Ed. Needs

SAN DIEGO - Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber, Chair of the Assembly Select Committee on Higher Education in San Diego County, will hold an informational hearing of the committee on Friday, March 28th, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM in Rm. 301 of the Mission Valley Campus of Point Loma Nazarene University, 4007 Camino Del Rio South, San Diego, 92108.

This hearing will focus on the role of private for-profit and non-profit educational institutions in meeting San Diego’s higher education needs, including addressing issues of access and diversity. Members of the public are invited to provide their perspectives.

“Our first hearing last fall established that we don’t have enough capacity to meet San Diego’s current or future post-secondary needs, especially for minority students” Weber said. “Moving forward, I want to make sure that we have a thoughtful plan to meet the region’s demand for higher education that is affordable, accessible and diverse.”

Testimony provided by California Competes at the committee’s first hearing in San Diego last November noted that the region would need to increase its degree attainment by about 58 percent over the next decade for the state remain economically competitive.

Assemblymember Shirley N. Weber (D-San Diego), a former faculty member and department chair at San Diego State University, requested the creation of the committee to explore options for addressing the region’s growing demand for post-secondary education, including the possibility of a new CSU or UC campus. The committee will make policy recommendations to Legislature

To RSVP and for more information about the hearing, please contact Assemblymember Weber’s district office at (619) 531-7913.

Earned Sick Days Bill Approved by Assembly Labor & Employment Committee

Gonzalez’s AB 1522 Would Require Workers Are Compensated For At Least Three Days Lost To Illness Annually

SAN DIEGO – (Wednesday, March 19, 2014) – A bill authored by California State Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) to guarantee employees in California can earn and use at least 3 sick days per year was approved by the Assembly Committee on Labor and Employment today.

Assembly Bill 1522 (Gonzalez) passed by a vote of 5 to 1, with every Democrat on the committee voting in support. The bill will move on to the Assembly Committee on the Judiciary, where it will likely be considered on .

AB 1522 aims to reduce the impact that illnesses have on the state’s working families as well as the health and safety of employees in the workplace. Additionally, Gonzalez said that providing employees with paid sick leave could reduce health care costs by allowing workers and their family members time to visit a primary care physician to address an illness rather than rushing to an emergency room to seek care due to their fear of missing work.

“Both workers and their employers lose out when employees have to choose between reporting for work while sick or losing pay because they don’t,” Gonzalez said. “Every time this choice comes up for a sick employee, everyone loses money – whether it’s through unnecessary emergency room costs, the billions of dollars lost in productivity annually when sick employees try to work while under the weather, or lost wages that impact whether working families can put food on the table.”

Under AB 1522, workers in California would accrue one hour of paid sick leave for every 30 hours worked and employers would have the option of capping an employee’s paid sick leave at 24 hours, or 3 days. Other states and cities – including Connecticut; New York City; Portland, Ore.; Washington, D.C.; and San Francisco – have already adopted paid sick day laws.

According to the “Shriver Report: A Woman’s Nation Pushes Back from the Brink,” published last week by former First Lady of California Maria Shriver and the Center for American Progress, “An overwhelming 96 percent of single mothers say paid leave is the workplace policy that would help them most.” Assemblywoman Gonzalez, a single mother herself, said she agrees.

“As the dynamics of the modern family change, so does a mother’s ability to take care of sick children or hers own self when she falls ill at the same time she’s trying to hold down her job,” Gonzalez said. “Our economy has moved to a place where families cannot rely on a stay-at-home parent in times of illness. As a state, California must adapt to the reality facing today’s working families.”

Gonzalez said paid sick leave will provide relief to several economic consequences that occur when employees fall sick:

Economic security:  Workers without paid sick days have to go to work sick or stay home, lose pay and risk job loss or workplace discipline. Nearly one quarter of adults in the United States (23 percent) report that they have lost a job or have been threatened with job loss for taking time off due to illness or to care for a sick child or relative.

Just 3.5 unpaid days off can cost a family without access to paid sick days, on average, its entire monthly grocery budget.

Cost effective:  Working people with paid sick days are more productive and less likely to leave their jobs, which saves businesses money by reducing turnover. And “presenteeism” – when employees work sick – is estimated to cost our national economy $160 billion in lost productivity each year.

Reduce community contagion: Workers without paid sick days are more likely to report going to work with a contagious illness like the flu or a viral infection —and risk infecting others.

Nearly three in four food service workers (73%) and workers in child care centers and nursing homes don’t have paid sick days.  This poses a serious threat to public health.

Decrease health care costs:  If all workers had paid sick days, it is estimated that 1.3 million emergency room visits could be prevented each year in the United States, saving $1.1 billion in health care costs annually. More than half of these savings – $517 million – would go to taxpayer-funded health insurance programs such as Medicare and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program.

For more information on AB 1522, or to interview Assemblywoman Gonzalez about paid sick days, contact Evan McLaughlin at (916) 319-2080 or (619) 850-2790.

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez represents the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the San Diego neighborhoods of City Heights, Barrio Logan, Paradise Hills, San Ysidro and Otay Mesa. For more information, visit http://asmdc.org/members/a80/ .

Planned Parenthood Action Fund, EMILY's List and California NOW Endorse Sarah Boot for San Diego City Council

 

Women’s Campaign Fund, National Womens Political Caucus and Run Women Run also rally behind former prosecutor

SAN DIEGO – Former prosecutor and women’s rights advocate Sarah Boot today announced the endorsements of several leading women’s organizations, including Planned Parenthood Action Fund, EMILY’s list, Women’s Campaign Fund, National Womens Political Caucus, Run Women Run and the California National Organization For Women.

“It is an honor during Women’s History Month to be recognized by so many outstanding groups working on behalf of women,” Boot said. “These organizations have long fought for equality in the workplace, access to affordable reproductive healthcare and the inclusion of women’s active voice in the political process.”

The endorsements were announced after the groups evaluated all candidates in District 2 and determined that Boot is the candidate who best prioritizes women and their right to choose. The news comes as Boot’s main opponent continues to dodge debate opportunities and avoid community forums where residents can learn more about the candidates.

EMILY’s List Political Director, Denise Feriozzi said, “With unprecedented and orchestrated attacks on women’s rights and opportunities, it is more important than ever that we have a champion for women like Sarah Boot in local government.”  She added, “From working on equal pay issues to her courageous work to combat human trafficking, Sarah Boot is always on the side of San Diego’s women and families. We need more women leaders like Sarah Boot and are proud and honored to support her.”

Clare Bresnahan, Women’s Campaign Fund Political Director said, “Women's Campaign Fund is proud to stand with Sarah Boot in her race to be on San Diego's City Council.” She added, “Boot has proven her commitment to the advancement of women throughout her career, whether she is holding forums at Equal Pay Day events or volunteering as a mentor for young women. It is essential that we support Boot and take a stand for the reproductive rights of the women of San Diego.”

Michelle Burton, President of Run Women Run, a non-partisan membership organization dedicated to recruiting and encouraging pro-choice women to run for public office said, “Sarah is the only woman in the race who shares the values of the majority of San Diegans. We are thrilled to support someone who has worked so hard on behalf of women and girls, both as a professional and as a volunteer.”

Boot has worked to advance the rights of women in matters ranging from equal pay to human trafficking. She has held forums and published articles about issues affecting lower income women, served as a career mentor for young women aging out of the foster care program, and worked to advance women in the workplace.

“Throughout the course of my career, I have fought for fairness, justice, and the advancement of women of all ages,” Boot said. “I look forward to continuing this work on behalf of all San Diegans.”
Sarah Boot is the only candidate in the District 2 City Council race endorsed by a broad coalition of pro-choice women’s groups.

SAN DIEGO’S TONI ATKINS ELECTED SPEAKER OF CALIFORNIA ASSEMBLY

(Sacramento) Assemblymember Toni Atkins (D-78) has been elected by her colleagues in the California State Assembly to become their 69th Speaker later this Spring, succeeding current Speaker John A. Pérez.

“I am grateful to my Assembly colleagues for selecting me for this honor and responsibility,” says Atkins.  “After several years of deficits and financial challenges created by the Great Recession, California has finally begun down a path of stabilization and growing prosperity.  I look forward to working with Assemblymembers on both sides of the aisle and the Governor as we take advantage of this opportunity to continue laying a sound financial foundation for our state.”

With her selection as Speaker, Atkins becomes only the second Democratic woman and second member of the LGBT community to hold the post.  As Majority Leader, she is already responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Assembly Floor and has served as a member of Speaker Perez's leadership team.

The Assembly Speaker is the highest ranking officer in the State Assembly. The Speaker is charged with the overall management and supervision of the Assembly. She appoints members to all committees and subcommittees of the Assembly, allocates funds, staffing, and other resources for the effective operation of the House, and establishes committee schedules. The Speaker is also responsible for making or recommending numerous appointments to state bodies and serves on the University of California Board of Regents and the California State University Board of Trustees.

Atkins represents a coastal San Diego district and was elected to the Assembly in 2010 following eight years on the San Diego City Council.

Sarah Boot Calls Out Her Opponent On Yet Another Zapf Gaffe

 

Today, City Council candidate Sarah Boot questioned the ethics of a recent Tweet by opponent Lorie Zapf in which Zapf claimed an endorsement for "reelection" in District 2. Zapf represents District 6 on the City Council, not District 2, so the idea of being "reelected" is not only misleading to voters but a downright falsehood. Until his election to the mayor's office, Kevin Faulconer represented District 2, not Zapf.

"Lorie Zapf has failed to take care of the needs of residents in District 6 - having done little to address the growing crime problem and the lack of funds to fix our neighborhoods' crumbling infrastructure. Now she 's hoping to fool new voters in district 2." Boot said.

Sarah Boot is a former United Sates Attorney, lawyer representing local technology companies, internet companies, and non-profits. She live in the Midway community with her husband and two rescue dogs.

Block: Jewish Caucus wants Donnelly apology

SACRAMENTO – State Senator Marty Block, chair of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus, today issued the following statement regarding Assemblyman Tim Donnelly’s recent outrageous rant:

“Assemblyman Tim Donnelly owes an apology to the millions impacted by the Holocaust and to countless American heroes and their families who battled evil during World War II. His odious trivialization of Adolph Hitler’s brutalities mocks their sacrifice.”

Carl DeMaio: All Stunts, No Substance

Here we go again: Carl DeMaio is trying to highlight his so-called “reform agenda” by launching House of Cards-themed ads, but San Diego voters won’t buy it. As local media has already noted, DeMaio has long been known as “King of the Gimmick,” and comparing himself to pop culture’s most notorious political villain is just the latest example. This latest gimmick won’t help him rewrite his record of grandstanding, division and championing a radical agenda.

“We know that Carl DeMaio is desperate to avoid talking about his record, devastating Tea Party agenda, or any of the substance that real (not fictional) members of Congress have to deal with every day,” said Tyrone Gayle of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. “So while Carl is playing with Photoshop, Scott Peters is working in Congress for middle-class San Diego families. It’s been said that the road to power is paved with hypocrisy and casualties. We don’t need more of either one from Carl.”

BACKGROUND:

DeMaio Called The Tea Party The “Conscience” of Government Reform And Assured He Would “Owe” Them. In 2011, speaking at a gathering of Tea Party members, DeMaio called the Tea Party the “conscience of the accountable government movement” and assured that he would “owe [them] and our collective movement everything.” [San Diego Tea Party event, 12/14/11, 13:45]

Union-Tribune: DeMaio is “Too Polarizing” And Would “Leave Behind a Divisive Legacy.” In 2012, the San Diego Union-Tribune wrote that DeMaio was “too polarizing” and that his defeat in the mayoral election “means that DeMaio will leave behind a divisive legacy.” [San Diego Union-Tribune, 11/08/12]

STATEMENT OF ASSEMBLY MAJORITY LEADER TONI ATKINS ON DROUGHT RELIEF LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE

(Sacramento)  Today the Governor and legislative leaders announced a package of measures designed to respond immediately to the impact of the worst drought faced by California in its recorded history. Majority Leader Atkins issued the following statement in response to these proposals:

“This is an all-hands-on-deck moment for our state.  The emergency drought relief legislation will assist parched communities affected by severe water shortages by helping them to secure drinking water as well as providing assistance to those forced into unemployment by the drought. In addition, the legislation provides incentives for improved water conservation and delivery technologies.  This approach reaffirms the work done by the San Diego County Water Authority and local residents and businesses by emphasizing water conservation, funding improvements to our infrastructure that improve local water supply, water quality and storage capacity. Both urban and rural areas of our state will benefit from this legislation.

While the Legislature and the Governor prioritize immediate measures to alleviate the crisis, every Californian must also do their part by heeding the Governor’s call for a 20% reduction in their water use.  We must also continue with long-term plans to increase our storage and delivery capacity as well as pursuing alternative approaches to generating fresh water such as desalination.”

Key elements of the emergency drought relief package include:

• Increased infrastructure investments by expediting funding for water supply and recycling, groundwater clean-up grants to disadvantaged communities suffering from drinking water contamination, and multi-benefit flood projects;
   
• Enhanced enforcement authority for the State Water Resources Control Board to address water rights violations such as diverting or stealing water;
   
• Help for those economically impacted by the drought, including food assistance, rent subsidies, and work force training;
   
• Funding for new water efficiency and conservation activities, including California Conservation Corps water reduction and fire safety projects that will also provide employment opportunities for veterans and unemployed youth.

Chula Vista Firefighters Support Steve Padilla for City Council

CHULA VISTA - The Chula Vista Firefighters Association today announced its official endorsement of Steve Padilla for Chula Vista City Council in the June 2014 election.


 


"Steve Padilla has a proven record of working hand in hand with public safety officials and first responders to improve the safety and security of Chula Vista,” said John Hess, President of the Chula Vista Firefighters Association.  “We are proud to stand with Steve because we know he will work to fully fund public safety, give first responders the resources they need and work to improve response times in every community.   Chula Vista’s firefighters agree that Steve Padilla is the right choice to continue the work of many for safer, more secure neighborhoods.”
 


The endorsement from Chula Vista Firefighters comes on the heels of Padilla’s endorsement from Chula Vista Police Officers last week, making Padilla the unanimous choice of law enforcement and public safety in the campaign for City Council.  A former police officer, Padilla was well known during his pervious terms in office for taking a hands-on approach to public safety, participating in regular ride-alongs with rank and file officers and meeting regularly with the City’s Police and Fire Chiefs.
 


“I have tremendous respect for our firefighters who put their lives on the line for residents and work to make our City safe and secure,” said Steve Padilla.  “I believe we need to not only hold the line, but increase funding and resources for public safety so our first responders have the resources they need to protect and serve our communities.  It is an honor to have the support of Chula Vista’s bravest – our dedicated, courageous Firefighters.”



In recent weeks, the Padilla campaign has announced a growing list of major endorsements, including the Democratic Party and the Chula Vista Employees Association.  In addition, official campaign finance reports showed Padilla had raised five times more contributions for his campaign than his closest opponent.



Steve Padilla is a small business owner, environmental advocate and lifelong Chula Vistan.  He is a former police officer who previously served on the Chula Vista City Council, as Chula Vista Mayor and Port Commissioner.  He lives in the Otay Ranch section of Chula Vista.

MAJORITY LEADER ATKINS JOINS ADVOCATES TO ASSESS PREGNANT PRISONER SHACKLING ONE YEAR AFTER PROHIBITION

(Sacramento) Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins joined advocates for pregnant women who are incarcerated in releasing a report on compliance with Atkins’ legislation prohibiting the most dangerous forms of shackling.  The report states that while 21 of California’s 58 counties have fully complied with the law, the remaining counties have either not fully complied, not complied at all, or did not respond to inquiries.

“I am proud to be the author of legislation that protects both public safety and the health and welfare of pregnant prisoners and their newborns. I applaud the counties that have fully complied with this new law,” says Atkins.  “Having said that, in almost two-thirds of our state’s counties, pregnant prisoners are still being put at risk. It is my hope that in the very near future that will no longer be the case.”

AB 2530 became law in January 2013.  It prohibits the use of behind-the-back handcuffs, belly chains, and leg irons on pregnant prisoners.  These practices endanger the health of the woman and the outcome of her pregnancy.  A little more than one year later, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children (LSPC), one of the sponsors of Atkins’ 2012 legislation, contacted each county to determine the extent of compliance with the new law.

Thirty-two counties continue to have written policies that do not comply with the law, either because they permit the prohibited restraints, do not acknowledge that a woman’s doctor has authority to order the restraints removed, or do not inform prisoners of their rights.  Two counties have not complied at all with the new law and three counties failed to respond to inquiries. LSPC will continue to work with state and county officials to bring all facilities into compliance.

Shackling makes pregnant women unsteady on their feet.  They also make it extremely difficult to treat a woman in a medical emergency. Women in correctional facilities are more likely to experience miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, pre-term birth, and low birth weight than other pregnant women.

The Majority Leader and LSPC were also joined at the news conference by a physician representing the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, District IX, which also sponsored AB 2530, and a representative of the California Coalition for Women Prisoners

California Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins was joined by Jesse Stout, Policy Director, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children, at a news conference to discuss compliance with Atkins’ legislation to prohibit shackling of pregnant prisoners.

Note:

• The report “No More Shackles” is attached.
   
• Audio clips from the news conference may be accessed at the following links:
  
  Opening remarks from Assembly Majority Leader Toni Atkins. (2:55)
  http://www.asmdc.org/audio/20140218AB2530ReportAtkinsRemarks.mp3
  
  Assemblymember Atkins says its clear shackles are dangerous for pregnant women. (:16)
  http://www.asmdc.org/audio/20140218AB2530ReportAtkins1.mp3
  
  Assemblymember Atkins says many California counties are already complying with AB 2530. (:18)
  http://www.asmdc.org/audio/20140218AB2530ReportAtkins2.mp3

###

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez’s VOTE Act Proposes Postage-Paid Mail Ballots for Mail-Only Special Elections

AB 1873 Would Increase Participation, Save Taxpayer Money in Traditionally Low-Turnout Contests

SACRAMENTO – (Wednesday, February 19, 2014) – California State Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego) introduced the VOTE Act today in an effort to boost voter participation and curb the taxpayer costs of special elections.

Assembly Bill 1873, known as the “Voting Ought To be Easy Act,” would allow California’s counties and cities to conduct special elections for legislative and municipal offices entirely by mail ballot, but would require them to provide full postage for all returned ballots if they choose to exercise the mail-only option.

Gonzalez said elections that don’t coincide with major statewide elections – like June primaries and November general elections – result in low voter participation and high costs for county election offices, which spend upwards of millions of dollars to set up polling locations and staff Election Day when local contests aren’t consolidated with a statewide election.

“Voters are more likely to participate in special elections if we give them several weeks to cast their ballots as opposed to a matter of hours on Election Day,” Gonzalez said. “By paying for the postage to return their completed ballot and providing voters an extended amount of time, the VOTE Act innovates our democracy in a way that will result in better access and participation – and that’s a good thing for California.”

Since the Presidential Election in November 2012, several special elections have taken place throughout California. Some legislative special elections failed to produce 10 percent participation rate. Even in the municipal elections that experienced higher turnout, voters who cast ballots at traditional polling place locations on Election Day made up just a fraction of all ballots cast in those contests as voters who mailed in a ballot represented the vast majority of those who participated at all.

“The special elections held in the last year show that a majority of voters choose to cast ballots in the four weeks leading up to Election Day by mail rather than at a polling place on Election Day itself. And for the large numbers who don’t cast ballots at all – whether it’s because they have a busy work schedule, family commitments or just plain forgot – it’s time California and their county elections office try cutting them some slack by giving them a larger window of time to exercise Democracy,” Gonzalez said.

Even by paying for the postage of every voter’s returned mail ballot, setting up Election Day drop-off locations for last minute voters, and allowing for in-person voting before Election Day, the VOTE Act is projected to save taxpayers money when special elections are needed. For example, the cost of every poll voter who cast a ballot in the 40th Senate District special election last March cost $221.43, according to the San Diego County Registrar of Voters. For every mail ballot counted in that race, the taxpayer cost was only $8.73.

For more information on the VOTE Act or to interview Assemblywoman Gonzalez, please contact Evan McLaughlin at (619) 850-2790 or (916) 319-2080.

Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez represents the 80th Assembly District, which includes Chula Vista, National City and the San Diego neighborhoods of City Heights, Barrio Logan, Paradise Hills, San Ysidro and Otay Mesa. For more information on Assemblywoman Gonzalez, visit http://asmdc.org/members/a80/.