Dear Friends and Neighbors,
August has been a month of meaningful advocacy both at the Capitol and here in our community. I’ve been proud to stand alongside my colleagues in support of ACA 8, a vital measure that ensures fair and transparent redistricting in California. I also participated in press conferences highlighting this issue and emphasizing the importance of protecting the voices of our residents in the political process. While several of our bills remain on standby as the legislative year unfolds, I’ve been actively working across the district to stay connected and engaged.
This month, we celebrated the achievements of Ruby Acero, our Assembly Fellow, who graduated from the Capitol Fellowship Program and presented on the Assembly Floor—a proud moment for our community. I also recognized our Small Business of the Month, highlighting local entrepreneurship and innovation, and toured the San Bernardino County Courthouse to discuss access to justice and the needs of our residents. These visits and conversations reinforce our commitment to being present and active across the 39th District.
We also experienced many other pivotal moments. Continue reading to learn more about resources and opportunities in the 39th District, from community programs to events and ways to stay connected.
As always, thank you for staying engaged and for allowing me the honor of serving as your representative. I look forward to continuing our work together in the months ahead.
Capitol Update
As we approach the end of the legislative session, I want to take a moment to recognize Team Carrillo and our incredible Local Government Committee staff. It truly takes teamwork to make the dream work, and I’m so grateful for everyone’s dedication and hard work at the Capitol. From coordinating meetings to supporting our legislative priorities, this group ensures that the voices of our communities are represented and that our work continues to move forward.
I had the honor of joining Senator Dave Cortese, fellow legislative leaders, and business and labor representatives to discuss California’s High-Speed Rail and the proposed $1 billion annual investment from Cap-and-Trade funds.
The press conference focused on the importance of stable, long-term funding for High-Speed Rail, as well as SB 545, which provides a clear framework for sustained funding and long-term planning.
I highlighted how this project:
- Creates thousands of union jobs and supports small businesses
- Connects underserved communities to new economic opportunities
- Drives economic growth in regions like the Central Valley and Inland Empire
I’m proud to support efforts that strengthen California’s infrastructure while expanding opportunities for communities across the state.
Ruby Acero, Assembly Fellow
I am so proud of Ruby Acero, our Assembly Fellow, as she graduates from the California State Assembly Fellowship Program. Serving in Team Carrillo since October 2024, Ruby has made a meaningful impact on our office and the district through her legislative support, research, and community engagement. She brings valuable experience from her work as a Children’s Program Coordinator at Building Futures with Women and Children and internships with UC Center Sacramento and California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), gaining expertise in policy, advocacy, and research. She plans to continue working on policy issues she cares about, including women’s rights and other community-focused initiatives. Her dedication and contributions have been invaluable to our office.
The Jesse M. Unruh Assembly Fellowship Program, founded in 1957, is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious legislative fellowship programs. It gives aspiring public servants the unique opportunity to serve as full-time legislative staff, participate directly in the legislative process, and gain hands-on experience in shaping public policy.
To learn more about the fellowship and application process, visit the CSUS Assembly Fellowship Program.
California High-Speed Rail Authority Meeting
I was honored to join Senator Dave Cortese, fellow legislative leaders, and business and labor representatives to discuss California’s High-Speed Rail and the proposed $1 billion annual investment from Cap-and-Trade funds. I was recently appointed to the High-Speed Rail Authority Board, and it’s clear how important stable, long-term funding is for this project. SB 545 provides a framework to make that possible.
This project:
- Creates thousands of union jobs and supports small businesses
- Connects underserved communities to new economic opportunities
- Drives economic growth in regions like the Central Valley and Inland Empire
I’m proud to support efforts that strengthen California’s infrastructure while expanding opportunities for communities across the state.
Latino Caucus Update
Press Conference on Redistricting & Latino Representation
I joined my colleagues at the State Capitol for a press conference on redistricting and Latino representation in California. I was honored to serve as the only lawmaker to deliver remarks in Spanish at this well-attended event.
I shared the urgent need to defend our democracy from efforts across the country to manipulate elections and silence Latino voices. In Texas, Latino voters are being stripped of their power through unfair redistricting. Here in California, we are charting a different course — one that strengthens our communities and ensures fair representation for the next decade.
For California’s Latino community, which makes up nearly 40% of our population, fair maps are not just about lines on a page. They are about justice, equity, and opening doors for more Latino leaders to serve in public office.
As I said at the press conference: “No puede haber una democracia sólida en California sin una representación latina sólida.”
ACA 8: Redistricting
I rose in support of ACA 8, a measure that protects the fairness of our democracy by strengthening California’s redistricting process.
I know this is not the issue any of us would like to be spending time on. There are so many pressing needs in our communities, from housing to education to public safety. But the unfortunate reality is that national leaders have manufactured a crisis by changing the rules in the middle of the game.
I believe Californians deserve the chance to compete on even ground. If one team decides to play the second half with 15 players instead of 11, and we continue by the old rules, we put ourselves, and the people we represent, at a huge disadvantage. That is not fair, and it undermines the very principles our democracy is built on.
At stake is nothing less than trust in our institutions and faith in our democracy. That is why I urge support for ACA 8 — to make sure Californians are protected and given a fair chance to have their voices heard.
District Update
Intern Spotlight: Alan Jobb – Palmdale District Office
I’m excited to welcome Alan Jobb, who will be serving as an intern in our Palmdale District Office for the next four months. Alan is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Public Administration at USC and brings a strong passion for public service and community engagement. With a background in history, he’s always eager to share interesting facts and connect the past with the work we do today.
Outside of the office, Alan enjoys snowboarding, hiking, and playing baseball. We are grateful for his energy and enthusiasm and look forward to the contributions he will make to Team Carrillo during his time with us.
August in Review: Celebrating Our Community
It was a busy month across the 39th District! From honoring local businesses to supporting students and entrepreneurs, I had the privilege of connecting with residents and celebrating milestones that make our community stronger.
Ribbon Cutting & Community Celebrations
- Attended the Motherflushers Ribbon Cutting, presenting a certificate and supporting local business growth.
Small Business Spotlights
- Celebrated Hattrix in Victorville as Small Business of the Month, recognizing their contributions to the local economy.
- Participated in the BizUp High Desert 1st Cohort Graduation, celebrating local entrepreneurs and their achievements.
Education & Youth
- Helped hand out backpacks at the 4th Annual Backpack Giveaway hosted by Sole of the Community, supporting students as they start the school year.
Community & Safety
- Toured Highway 138 with CHP, Caltrans, and local leaders to discuss safety improvements and ensure safer roads for everyone.
- Visited the Victorville Courthouse, engaging with court leadership to learn about infrastructure challenges and innovations in access to justice.
Every event this month reminded me of the talent, resilience, and dedication in our district. I’m grateful to everyone I met, celebrated, and collaborated with — and I look forward to continuing this work in the months ahead!
Community Spotlight
Antelope Valley Family YMCA
This month, I’m proud to highlight the Antelope Valley Family YMCA in Lancaster. I am thankful for the YMCA’s tremendous impact on our community—providing programs that support youth development, healthy living, and family empowerment. Their dedication to strengthening and uplifting the Antelope Valley is truly inspiring, and I’m grateful to have such an important resource right here in our district.
Learn more about the great programs they offer and consider getting involved: Antelope Valley Family YMCA.
Location: 43001 10th St W, Lancaster, CA 93534
Phone: (661) 723-9622
Hours: Open daily, closes at 7 PM
Community Resources
Small Business Resources
Los Angeles County – Economic Mobility Initiative (EMI)
Our office is excited to share the Entrepreneurship Academy through LA County’s Economic Mobility Initiative. This free program supports entrepreneurs and small business owners with training, resources, and mentorship.
📌 How to Join:
- Learn more about the Academy through the flyer (available in English and Spanish).
- Submit an intake form by selecting the “Entrepreneurship Academy” option here.
If you have questions or would like to collaborate, please reach out to our Office of Small Business through this email thread.
San Bernardino County – Small Business Resource: Caravanserai Project
For entrepreneurs and small business owners in San Bernardino County, the Caravanserai Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals from under-resourced communities launch successful for-profit businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Since 2016, Caravanserai has supported local entrepreneurs by providing:
- Culturally respectful mentorship
- Access to needed resources
- A supportive, creative peer network
📌 Why it matters:
Caravanserai’s programs are free, accessible to all, and now serve the High Desert region. They work to remove barriers such as race, gender, language, and economic challenges, helping entrepreneurs build long-term financial security and economic mobility.
📞 Connect with Caravanserai:
- Phone: (760) 537-6442
- Email: contact@caravanseraiproject.org
Immigration Resources & Legal Assistance
We are committed to supporting immigrant communities across our district. For information about local services and legal assistance, please visit our Immigration Resources Landing Page.
Link: Can we link our landing page if available
Know Your Rights
Everyone, regardless of immigration status, has rights under the U.S. Constitution. Please review and share this printable resource to stay informed.
These cards include guidance on what to do during ICE encounters and how to safely assert your rights. Our office can also connect you to legal aid and trusted community partners.
🍎 211 LA & 211 San Bernardino – Fighting Food Insecurity
Many families across our district face increased food insecurity, especially when school meal programs are on break. Whether you're in Los Angeles County or San Bernardino County, help is just a call or click away.
📞 Dial 2-1-1 or visit 211 LA (LA County) or 211 SB (San Bernardino County)
These trusted, free, and confidential services connect residents to a wide range of local food resources, including:
- 🍽️ Food banks and pantries
- 🥫 Summer meal sites for children and families
- 🛒 Emergency grocery assistance
- 🚗 Drive-thru and mobile food distributions
- 🧓 Senior nutrition programs
How It Works:
- Call 2-1-1 any time, 24/7, to speak with a trained community resource advisor.
- Or search online using your ZIP code to find local food programs, eligibility info, and service hours.
- Services are offered in multiple languages and are free to use.
Why It Matters:
No one in our community should go hungry, especially not during the summer. 211 LA and 211 SB are here to ensure every resident can find help close to home.
Attached is a PDF with food drive/resource information for San Bernardino County from the Rescue Mission Alliance. Be sure to share it with neighbors or anyone who might benefit!
Veteran Resources
California is home to nearly 2 million veterans. Our veterans deserve the care they were promised and the benefits they have earned in service to our country.
Learn about the many resources available to veterans.