Dear Neighbor,
I am excited to share this news update about recent legislative developments and some of the work I am doing to represent our community in the California State Assembly.
New Location: Meeting on State Oversight of Oil Pipeline Proposal
Senator Limón and I, in partnership with the California Natural Resources Agency, are hosting an informational meeting on Sable Offshore's proposal to repair and restart oil pipelines along the Central Coast. Key state agencies will outline their roles in the review process.
Thursday, March 13
4 - 6:30 p.m.
La Cumbre Junior High School
2255 Modoc Road
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
Moderated by CNRA Secretary Wade Crowfoot, the meeting will feature presentations from regulatory agencies, including the Coastal Commission, State Lands Commission, State Fire Marshal, and others. Due to time constraints, live questions will be limited.
Advocating for California's Fair Share of Federal Funding
As Chair of Budget Subcommittee No. 7 on Accountability and Oversight, I recently led a hearing on federal funding in California. The hearing featured presentations by state budget experts, a county government executive and a higher education representative about the critical services made vulnerable by funding threats from the presidential administration.
America's hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, agriculture and diversity, California is the fifth-largest economy in the world. California subsidizes the rest of the country, contributing $80 billion more in federal tax dollars than we receive back in spending and services. Children, seniors, first responders, veterans, people with disabilities and Californians from every corner of our state are counting on the President and Congress to fund the programs and services that ensure their well-being.
This hearing was the first of five being held by the Budget Subcommittee in advance of the May Revision of the Governor's Budget.
Tere Jurado Recognized as California Woman of the Year
As part of the Legislature's annual celebration of Women's History Month, I am pleased to recognize Tere Jurado as the California Woman of the Year for the 37th District. A longtime Santa Barbara resident and community leader, Tere Jurado is a pillar of the community. Originally from Mexico City, Tere is a respected Spanish-language radio broadcaster, activist and go-to person for many. Tere is especially proud of her 17 years working as a family advocate at Franklin Elementary School. Most recently, Tere has served on the boards of many organizations, including the Santa Barbara Eastside Society, Santa Barbara Mariachi Festival, Standing Together to End Sexual Assault (STESA), Santa Barbara Police Activities League and more.
Free Tax Filing Service
On March 8, I co-hosted the Santa Maria Tacos and Taxes event, in partnership with Senator Monique Limón, United Way of Northern Santa Barbara County, Allan Hancock College and Golden State Opportunity. More than 100 community members received free tax filing services, including help claiming the California Earned Income Tax Credit. Senator Limón and I were happy to provide lunch for the program participants and the many dedicated volunteers.
There is still time to receive free tax preparation assistance from United Way's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA). Visit myfreetaxes.org to book an appointment for assistance if you qualify.
Out in the Community
Celebrating the opening of the Santa Barbara Foodbank Sharehouse. (Photo by Callahan Morgan)
Speaking at the Homeowners Insurance Town Hall event that Senator Limón hosted, in partnership with the Department of Insurance.
Hosting a roundtable meeting with Senator Limón, parents, advocates and providers on youth mental health care access.
I hope these legislative and community updates provide insight into our work together. As always, I value your feedback and encourage you to reach out with any questions, suggestions or concerns. My Santa Barbara office can be reached at (805) 564-1649 and my Santa Maria office can be reached at (805) 346-1237. You can also email me at Assemblymember.Hart@assembly.ca.gov.
Warm regards,
Gregg Hart
Assemblymember, 37th District
