Our First Bill Signed Into Law This Legislative Year—And We're Just Getting Started
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
July has been a month of meaningful progress both at the Capitol and here at home. I’m proud to share that Assembly Bill 370 (AB 370), my first bill of the 2025–26 legislative year, was officially signed into law, marking an important step in strengthening transparency and protecting public access to records in the face of emergencies and cyberattacks.
With the Legislature on Summer Recess (July 18 – August 18), I’ve been spending more time in the district, meeting with residents, supporting community events, and continuing to uplift local voices.
Read below to get an update on what I’ve been up to—from legislative milestones to backpack giveaways, workshops, and more.
Thank you, as always, for staying connected.
Capitol Update
Summer Recess in the District
From July 18 to August 18, the California State Legislature is on Summer Recess. During this time, lawmakers take a break from their work in Sacramento and return to their home districts. This pause allows legislators like me to reconnect directly with the communities we serve, attend local events, hear your concerns, and focus on delivering the resources and solutions that matter most.
Summer Recess is an important part of the legislative calendar—it gives lawmakers time to reflect on the work done so far, prepare for upcoming sessions, and stay closely connected to the people and places we represent. While the Capitol is quiet, I’ll be busy visiting schools, businesses, nonprofits, and local leaders throughout the Antelope and Victor Valleys to make sure your voices continue to shape our work.
If you want to meet or share your ideas during this time, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. Summer Recess is a great opportunity for us to work together to build a stronger, healthier community.
AB 370 Signed Into Law
I’m proud to share that AB 370, my first bill of the 2025–26 legislative year, was officially signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on July 14. This is a big win for both transparency and digital preparedness across California.
This bill was inspired by a real challenge right here in our district, the cyberattack that struck the City of Hesperia, disrupting city services and delaying public access to important records. In the wake of that incident, it became clear that we needed to modernize the California Public Records Act to account for the growing threat of cyberattacks while still upholding the public’s right to information.
AB 370 ensures that during a cybersecurity emergency, local and state agencies can temporarily extend public records timelines, but only when their systems are directly impacted. It strikes the right balance between transparency and practical emergency response.
I'm incredibly proud of our team’s work on this bill, and especially grateful to Jaelen Spencer, our district staffer, who played a key role in helping carry this bill across the finish line. This win belongs to all of Team Carrillo and to the people we serve.
We’ll keep working to protect access, improve public systems, and respond to the real-world challenges our communities are facing.
AB 1089 Advances to Support Western Joshua Tree Conservation and Community Safety
Assembly Bill 1089 recently passed the Senate Natural Resources Committee, marking a key step toward helping our High Desert region grow responsibly.
This bill allows local governments to permit the removal or relocation of Western Joshua Trees within 100 feet of approved commercial and industrial projects. It also includes a new provision allowing single-family homeowners to remove Joshua Trees within 100 feet of their homes without fees — a response to residents’ safety concerns, especially around children’s play areas.
AB 1089 balances community safety and environmental conservation, supporting sustainable growth in our district.
Appointed to the California High-Speed Rail Authority Board
Bringing the High Desert voice to California's transportation future.
Earlier this year, I was honored to be appointed by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas to serve on the California High-Speed Rail Authority Board of Directors. The board oversees the planning, construction, and future operation of the nation’s first high-speed rail system, connecting communities across California with clean, fast, and sustainable transportation.
As the only Assemblymember currently serving on the board, I’m proud to represent the Antelope Valley, Victor Valley, and Inland Empire in this historic effort. With experience in local government and community planning, I know how transformative this project can be when we center equity, access, and opportunity for all Californians.
On July 10, I participated in my first official board meeting, where we received updates on construction progress, funding outlooks, and community engagement initiatives. I look forward to continuing this work and advocating for the long-term benefits this project can bring to our region and our state.
Strengthening Ties with Jalisco: A Bipartisan Legislative Mission
On July 24, I joined legislators from both parties on a trip to Jalisco, Mexico, to honor and strengthen the long-standing sister state relationship between California and Jalisco. This partnership supports collaboration in trade, culture, education, and public policy that benefits both our communities.
California has 36 official sister states and cooperation agreements around the world. These partnerships are formal friendships that encourage shared projects and exchanges, helping build stronger ties in areas like economic growth and cultural understanding.
The California-Jalisco relationship, established in 2014, is a great example of this cooperation. Our visit reaffirmed our commitment to work together on important issues, and I look forward to continuing to strengthen these bonds for the benefit of both regions.
Latino Caucus Update
Interview with Telemundo on Senate Bill 627
This month, I was honored to be featured in an interview with Telemundo, along with other Latino Caucus leaders, as part of the Latino Legislative Caucus’ leadership series. We discussed SB 627, legislation aimed at increasing transparency and accountability in law enforcement to better protect our communities from secret surveillance practices.
During the interview, I shared how SB 627 advances important reforms by ensuring public oversight and strengthening safeguards for civil rights. This bill is a key part of our broader effort to build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, particularly in the Antelope and Victor Valleys.
I want to thank Senator Weiner for his leadership and dedication in pushing this important legislation forward. I’m proud to advocate for policies like SB 627 that promote equity, transparency, and safety for all Californians.
Celebrating Our Scholarship Winners
We are proud to announce two outstanding students from our district who received scholarships from the California Latino Legislative Caucus Foundation (CLLCF): Valerie Romero from Victorville and Adrián Gutiérrez from Palmdale. These scholarships, part of a $300,000 investment awarded to 60 students statewide, recognize academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to community.
The CLLCF has supported Latino students for over a decade, helping to empower the next generation of leaders despite challenges like rising education costs and economic pressures. As Vice Chair of the Latino Caucus, I am honored to recognize these young scholars who represent the resilience and promise of our community.
Congratulations again to Valerie, Adrian, and all the 2025 recipients. Their success inspires us all to continue investing in education and opportunity for every student in California.
District Update
Joshua Tree Workshop
Thank you to everyone who attended our Western Joshua Tree permitting workshop in Palmdale on July 11! We also want to extend our gratitude to the City of Palmdale for their invaluable partnership, as well as to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for their support.
If you missed the workshop or want to revisit key moments, be sure to watch our highlights video included in this newsletter.
Due to the high interest, we’re planning a virtual session soon—stay tuned for more details!
Lake Los Angeles Town Council Visit
Thank you to the Lake Los Angeles Town Council for welcoming me to your July meeting at Living Springs Foursquare Church. I appreciated the opportunity to provide a legislative update and hear directly from residents about their concerns and ideas. I’m happy to be home during the summer recess and was glad to attend and engage with our community firsthand.
Inland Empire Economic Development Symposium
Thank you to the Inland Empire for inviting our Victorville district office to participate in the Economic Development Symposium, held in partnership with the Asian Real Estate Association of America. It was a pleasure to join State Treasurer Fiona Ma and others in discussing the challenges and opportunities for economic growth in our region. We remain committed to supporting sustainable investment and future development throughout the Inland Empire and High Desert.
Backpack Drive with Hope and Restore Unity — July 12th
On July 12th, my office proudly sponsored a Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway in collaboration with Hope and Restore Unity. We distributed over 500 backpacks filled with school supplies to local students and families in need. Our team stopped by to show support and connect with the community, helping kids gear up for a successful school year.
Backpack Bash with Moses House Ministries — July 19th
A week later, on Saturday, July 19th, we sponsored the Backpack Bash hosted by Moses House Ministries. Families enjoyed a day packed with school supplies distribution, free haircuts, and access to vital resources. My office was on-site to support this incredible event, which brought the community together with an amazing turnout!
Planning Ahead: Holiday Sponsorships
At this time, sponsorships are at a hard stop as we begin preparations for the holiday season. Please send your Christmas sponsorship requests early so we can review how to best support your event. Requests will be handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Community Spotlight
High Desert Community Coalition & Institute for Public Strategies – High Desert
Thank you to the High Desert Community Coalition (HDCC) and the Institute for Public Strategies – High Desert (IPS) for your dedication to making our communities safer and healthier!
Since 2012, the HDCC has worked tirelessly to combat the rise of synthetic drugs in the High Desert. Thanks to their efforts, these drugs no longer impact our region. Today, their mission continues with a focus on preventing substance use disorders among youth and adults by promoting proven, community-based strategies.
IPS High Desert, a local nonprofit partnered with San Bernardino County’s Department of Behavioral Health, supports these efforts through community education, free Narcan and fentanyl test strip distribution, school partnerships, training, and local policy advocacy. Their presence in Victorville, Apple Valley, Hesperia, and Adelanto strengthens our collective health and safety.
We appreciate your hard work and invite community members to get involved!
Contact HDCC: HDcommunitycoalition@gmail.com
Follow on Instagram: @hdcommunitycoalition
For more about IPS High Desert, contact Program Manager, Carolina Gabaldon at cgabaldon@publicstrategies.org or call (760) 843-7003 ext. 146.
Community Resources
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 Know Your Rights Resources Page.
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.
🍎 Summer Resource Spotlight: 211 LA & 211 San Bernardino – Fighting Food Insecurity
As summer approaches, 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.