Dear Neighbor,
I am excited to share an update on recent legislative developments and my ongoing work to represent the interests of our community in the California State Assembly.
Hart Recognizes Immigrant Legal Defense Center as 2025 Nonprofit of the Year
Earlier this month, I was proud to recognize the Immigrant Legal Defense Center as the California Nonprofit of the Year for Assembly District 37. Based in Santa Barbara County, this organization provides critical, pro bono legal services to immigrants facing deportation and ensures that no one stands alone in immigration court. Through direct representation, advocacy and community education, the Immigrant Legal Defense Center helps individuals and families navigate a complex legal system with dignity and fairness.
I am inspired by their unwavering commitment to justice and proud to honor their incredible impact. To help more nonprofits like the Immigrant Legal Defense Center succeed, I've introduced Assembly Bill 1039, which would require the state to offer advance payments on grants and reduce financial barriers for organizations launching essential services. Together, we can build a more equitable and compassionate California.
Advancing Legislation to Benefit Our Community
I'm proud to share that seven of my bills have passed the Assembly and are now under consideration in the Senate. This legislative package advances environmental protection, supports nonprofits, strengthens accountability and promotes more opportunities for civic engagement.
AB 14 - California Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program: Establishes a statewide voluntary vessel speed reduction program to prevent boat strikes on whales and reduce harmful air emissions.
AB 471 - Equitable Air District Board Compensation: Allows certain county air districts, including Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District, to provide equitable compensation to board members.
AB 632 - Local Housing and Safety Compliance: Strengthens local enforcement of State housing law, fire safety regulations and unlicensed cannabis activities by expanding penalty collection options for local governments to deter the most serious violators.
AB 1039 - Equitable Access to State Grants: Requires State agencies to provide nonprofit organizations up to 25% of funds in advance for all new contracts and grants. The bill promotes equity and reduces barriers to entry by providing start-up funds to nonprofits that deliver essential community services.
AB 1108 - Forensic Accountability, Custodial Transparency, and Safety (FACTS) Act of 2025: Requires independent medical examinations into the deaths of individuals who die in law enforcement custody. The bill aims to mitigate potential conflicts of interest when a sheriff's office handles cases involving its own personnel.
AB 1448 - Protect California's Coast: Strengthens environmental protections, public oversight and safety requirements for offshore oil drilling in California. This bill prohibits the State Lands Commission from approving any expansion of offshore oil drilling along California's coast and places tighter restrictions on the renewal, extension or modification of existing leases.
AB 1466 - Groundwater Adjudications: Enhances California's groundwater sustainability efforts and protects small family farmers that face expensive litigation by ensuring broader representation in the groundwater management process.
You're Invited: June 21 Sidewalk Office Hours with Supervisor Hartmann
I will be holding Sidewalk Office Hours in Lompoc, Buellton and Solvang alongside Santa Barbara County Supervisor for the Third District, Joan Hartmann.
Please come out and say hello! These events are informal opportunities for us to connect and discuss your priorities for California and our community.
Lompoc
9 - 10:30 a.m.
Lompoc Civic Center
100 Civic Center Plaza
Buellton
11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Avenue of the Flags & CA-246
Solvang
1:15 - 2:45 p.m.
Veterans' Memorial Building
1745 Mission Drive
Congratulating Senator Limón on Selection as Senate President pro Tempore
All Californians will benefit from the leadership of Senator Monique Limón as the next President pro Tempore of the California State Senate. As the first woman of color to lead the Senate, she brings immense pride to the Central Coast and breaks important ground for our state. I look forward to working alongside Senator Limón to advance affordability, protect our environment and uphold every Californian's right to opportunity and dignity.
Out in the Community
Commemorating the 10th Anniversary of California Nonprofits Day.
Hearing from the UCSB Lobby Corps on their legislative priorities.
Meeting with community members at my Sidewalk Office Hours in Summerland.
Kicking off my Hike with Hart event at Lake Los Carneros in Goleta.
Speaking with Otis Calef of the Santa Barbara County Trails Council at my Hike with Hart event.
Celebrating the Santa Barbara City College Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Inductees.
I hope that 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
