What a year it was! Thank you for letting me continue to serve you for another term representing the 74th District in the State Assembly. We had a busy year in 2024 in the district, and I thought I would share highlights.
In February, we recognized more than a dozen leaders nominated for Women of the Year. They came from all types of backgrounds and accomplishments, and I was honored to learn of their many impressive accomplishments.
Coastal erosion is one of my greatest concerns in the district. I led the Orange County delegation in asking the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to reconsider charging San Clemente an extra $2.5 dollars for the expense of using an alternative sand borrow site to complete the Shoreline Project. This project has been widely successful as the second phase is now almost complete.
I helped secure a $125 million grant from the California Transportation Agency for the Orange County Transportation Authority’s (OCTA) Coastal Rail Infrastructure Resiliency Project. The funding will be used to protect the LOSSAN Rail Corridor and prevent future emergency track closures and service disruptions along seven miles of coastal rail in San Clemente.
These projects are costly, and I am happy to assist with state funding for much-needed transportation along our region’s coastline. Ensuring the longevity and resiliency of our coastal rail infrastructure has been one of my highest priorities.
I am pleased to announce that I had seven bills signed into law. Each of them passed through their committees unanimously, proving bipartisanship and a common-sense approach. One of the bills, AB 1881, encourages the use of scientific experts on permit applications before the California Coastal Commission. We need to protect our coastline and consider proposed projects with knowledgeable representatives making decisions on matters that affect our greatest natural resources.
AB 2081 is another new law. It requires sober living homes to post infractions and gives patients a link to check on the status of a facility’s licensing. It is a common-sense step forward that empowers patients and their families to make informed decisions about much-needed rehabilitation care. It will be the first step in holding treatment facilities accountable while also giving residents the chance for safer neighborhoods.
On workforce development, I authored AB 2179, which was signed into law. It requires high schools to provide information on local apprenticeships to their students. We all know education is the key to success, but that doesn’t always mean going to a four-year university. This will help students understand all of their options when coming out of high school, including opportunities at trade schools, and work experience at apprenticeships.
Students of every background should have the chance for a steady and stable job in a number of growing fields. Many of these experiences lead to well-paying careers. California should be at the forefront of workforce training.
In August, we saluted our first responders, honoring our brave men and women who keep our community safe. We recognized law enforcement, firefighters, lifeguards and some unsung heroes including our 911 dispatchers and crisis intervention teams.
And, in partnership with the California Highway Patrol, we hosted a child car seat installation event. Parents came by with their car seats, and trained officers either checked or fully installed each one. The safety of infants and children is so important, and we appreciate the time these experts offered to assist parents and give them peace of mind.
In December, we hosted the 2024 Veteran Service Member Awards. The ceremony recognized the outstanding contributions of local veterans and servicemembers who serve in the community. The 74th Assembly District, which includes Camp Pendleton, is home to over 18,000 veterans and servicemembers.
I was honored to receive Orange County Business Council’s “Legislator of the Year” award. The state’s businesses need strong representation in Sacramento, and I am pleased to advocate on their behalf with many of my bipartisan colleagues.
A few of my other favorite events included: Red Ribbon Week, presenting to high school AVID students, the San Clemente Exchange awards for Firefighter of the Year and Sheriff Deputy of the Year, and helping present scholarships at the Armed Forces and Military Families Expo, which was sponsored by the Marine Corps League South Coast Detachment 022 and Saddleback College.
Finally, despite a budget deficit, I was able to secure $17.25 million for OCFA to help with coastal fire assistance and upgrade equipment, and $20 million for Capo Unified School District’s infrastructure projects.
Thank you for letting me serve you.