Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Happy May! As the days grow warmer and our communities begin to prepare for summer, I hope this month brings you moments of rest, renewal, and discovery.
It’s an incredible honor to serve you in the California State Assembly. Now in my third year, I remain committed to uplifting the voices of the Antelope Valley and Victor Valley, and to advancing policies that bring meaningful change to the families and neighborhoods that make our region so special.
In this edition, you’ll find updates on five important bills I’ve authored this session, focused on creating opportunity and addressing urgent needs in our district. We’re also proud to recognize this year’s Latino Spirit Awards, celebrating Californians whose work embodies resilience, culture, and community impact.
As summer approaches, we know the needs of our families grow with school being out, so we’ve included a Resources Section with information on local support programs, including food access and seasonal opportunities for youth and families.
Thank you, as always, for staying connected and engaged. Serving this district is a privilege I hold with deep gratitude, and I look forward to continuing this important work together.
Capitol Update
✅ Legislative Highlights: Bills That Just Passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee We're proud to share progress on key legislation that reflects our office’s values and priorities. These five important bills have just passed the Assembly Appropriations Committee and are now heading to the Assembly Floor:
AB 264 – Expanding Veterans’ Educational Benefits
Makes it easier for family members of disabled veterans to afford college by allowing them to use both the California College Fee Waiver and federal benefits at the same time.
AB 450 – Supporting Aging Undocumented Immigrants
Establishes a task force within the Department of Aging to recommend resources and services for undocumented older adults across California.
AB 716 – Hydrogen Facility Fire Safety
Strengthens fire safety standards at hydrogen facilities by providing local agencies with the training and resources they need.
AB 911 – Emergency Vehicle Access
Improves coordination and standards for emergency vehicles to ensure faster and safer response times.
AB 982 – Preserving Construction Resources
Protects vital construction materials by allowing idle mines to be preserved as reserves, helping reduce waste and unnecessary resource use.
As these bills advance to the Assembly Floor, we remain committed to uplifting our communities and tackling the issues that matter most. Stay tuned for more updates!
HR 16 – Honoring Latino Heritage & the Spirit of Cinco de Mayo
Status: Adopted by the California State Assembly | May 5, 2025
In recognition of Cinco de Mayo, I proudly presented House Resolution 16, which was officially adopted by the State Assembly. This resolution celebrates the resilience, legacy, and cultural contributions of the Latino community—a community that continues to shape California’s identity and future.
HR 16 received unanimous support across all major legislative caucuses, with powerful floor remarks from members of the Black, Asian, and Pacific Islander (API), Jewish, LGBTQ+, and Women’s Caucuses. Each speaker highlighted the strength in diversity and the deep connections between communities working toward equity and justice.
“Cinco de Mayo is a symbol of resistance and triumph against injustice,” said Assemblymember Juan Carrillo. “Today’s resolution is a reminder of our history, our strength, and our unity across communities.”
- Celebrates the historic 1862 Battle of Puebla
- Uplifts California’s vibrant Latino communities
- Supported by bipartisan voices and all major caucuses
- Reaffirms our state’s values of diversity, justice, and shared history
As we reflect on this holiday, let us remember the ongoing work of building equity, uplifting all cultures, and ensuring every community is respected and represented.
Latino Caucus Update
Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Latino Spirit Awards
Each year, the California Latino Legislative Caucus honors outstanding Latinos who have made significant contributions across a variety of fields — from business and public service to arts and environmental justice. Since 2002, the Latino Spirit Awards have celebrated inspiring leaders whose work uplifts and empowers the Latino community statewide.
This year’s 23rd Annual Latino Spirit Awards ceremony was held on Monday, May 5, 2025. This year’s honorees were prominent figures such as Luis Armona for Achievement in Business, Hon. Xavier Becerra for Public Service, and Angélica Vale for Arts & Entertainment, along with leaders in environmental justice, philanthropy, health, and human rights.
We’re proud to recognize these trailblazers who remind us of the rich talent and boundless potential within California’s Latino community.
Check out the full list of the 2025 Latino Spirit Award Honorees and learn more about their incredible contributions here:
Celebrating Latina Power at Latina Action Day 2025
On May 6, 2025, HOPE (Hispanas Organized for Political Equality) brought together over 400 Latinas from across California for Latina Action Day at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento. This powerful day of advocacy centered the voices and experiences of Latinas at the heart of statewide policy-making.
I proudly joined the event as a speaker, highlighting the importance of supporting Latinas in all areas of civic life. I was also honored to celebrate Ms. Rocio Castellanos, Deputy Mayor of the City of Lancaster and a proud honoree from the 39th District. Her leadership exemplifies the strength and resilience of Latinas driving progress in our communities.
During the conference, attendees engaged in key state policy discussions on education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and civic engagement. Among the Latino Caucus’ top budget priorities was the SEED funding proposal, championed by our office to expand opportunities and support for Latinas across California.
We are deeply grateful to HOPE and Latina Action Day for creating this space where Latina voices rise together because when Latinas rise, we all rise.
Joining Vision y Compromiso for Promotoras’ Statewide Legislative Week of Action
On May 7, I was proud to join Vision y Compromiso at the State Capitol for their Promotora Legislative Advocacy Day, part of the Statewide Legislative Week of Action (May 5–9, 2025). This powerful week brings together promotoras and community leaders from across California to advocate for policies that improve health equity and uplift underserved communities.
I gave my gratitude to the promotoras for their tireless work, community-centered leadership, and continued dedication to advancing the well-being of families across Assembly District 39 and the state.
"Your voices are essential to shaping just and inclusive policy," said Assemblymember Carrillo. "I’m honored to stand with you and support your continued efforts."
District Updates
Honored at the LULAC State Convention
I was honored at the LULAC State Convention, where I delivered keynote remarks during the luncheon program. The annual convention brings together Latino leaders, advocates, students, and policymakers from across California to advance equity, representation, and opportunity for our communities.
During my speech, I reflected on my personal journey and emphasized the importance of empowering immigrant voices, uplifting working families, and expanding access to civic participation. I also highlighted two Latino Caucus priorities: AB 868, which focuses on advancing voter equity, and the SEED Initiative, a proposal to support immigrant entrepreneurs through community-driven investment.
I'm proud to have my leadership recognized at one of the most impactful gatherings in Latino advocacy, and grateful to my team for standing with me every step of the way
¡Gracias, LULAC, for continuing to champion our communities!
Cinco de Mayo Parade in Lake Los Angeles
On May 3, our community came together to celebrate culture, unity, and tradition at the Cinco de Mayo Parade in Lake Los Angeles. A heartfelt thank-you to Sam Roman and everyone who helped make this event such a vibrant and joyful celebration!
I look forward to this parade every year. It’s always a beautiful way to bring the community together. This year, I even matched unexpectedly with the local folklorico students, what a fun surprise!
¡Muchas gracias to all who came out and made the day special.
Celebrating Our 2025 Future Leaders
My office and I were proud to partner with Assemblymember Tom Lackey and the Antelope Valley Press to host the 2025 Future Leaders Award Ceremony in Palmdale.
These remarkable students were selected by the Antelope Valley Press for their leadership, dedication, and bright futures. It was an honor to celebrate their achievements, and I was especially excited to learn that many are heading off to four-year universities this fall.
Congratulations to all of this year’s Future Leaders—you make our community proud!
Community Resources
🍎 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!
Immigration Resources & Legal Assistance
Understand your immigration rights. Visit the Know Your Rights page on my website for easy-to-use resources that can help you navigate tough situations with confidence.
Know Your Rights
Download Know Your Rights cards to stay informed about your legal protections. Keep them handy and share them with your community!
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.
Community Spotlight
Each month, we highlight a local organization making a meaningful impact in our district. This month, we’re proud to recognize Rescue Mission Alliance – Victor Valley for their tireless work serving individuals and families facing poverty, hunger, and homelessness in the High Desert.
Based in Victorville, the Mission provides free hot meals, grocery assistance, mobile showers, and fellowship through strong partnerships with local churches and community groups. Their Life Recovery Program offers individuals battling addiction a path to healing—physically, mentally, and spiritually—through biblically based counseling and services.
They also partner with the Winter Warming Shelter to provide essential support during the coldest months of the year, ensuring no one is left without care when temperatures drop.
By collaborating with county, city, and private agencies, Rescue Mission Alliance helps connect guests to the services they need to build a brighter future. Whether it’s offering basic necessities or helping individuals get back on their feet, they are a vital part of our community’s safety net.
We’re grateful for the work they do every day to uplift and serve our neighbors in need. To learn more about the organization or for questions, please reach out to them at (760) 955-5958.
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!