Governor Brown’s proposed 2016-17 Budget, released yesterday, begins legislative efforts to keep California’s finances on track while continuing to invest in our future. I believe investments in our infrastructure, education, and healthcare system are critical to a thriving California.
Access to higher education remains a top priority for me. Thankfully, the nearly $300 million in new higher education funds in this year’s budget ensures California college students will not face tuition increases for the fifth consecutive year. Additionally, the proposed 4.4% increase in funding for California’s Community Colleges means more high school students can immediately access college level courses provided by my concurrent enrollment bill, AB 288.
Today, Assembly Speaker Toni G. Atkins announced the members of the Democratic Caucus leadership team for the 2015-16 Legislative Session. Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena) has been appointed Majority Floor Leader. The Majority Floor Leader represents the Speaker on the Assembly Floor and expedites Floor proceedings. Holden previously served as Majority Whip under Speaker Emeritus John A. Pérez, and as Assistant Majority Floor Leader under Speaker Atkins. Assembly Member Holden was first elected in 2012.
“I am deeply honored Speaker Atkins appointed me Majority Leader of the California State Assembly. I appreciate her trust in my abilities and desire to do good work for the people of this great state. Progress has been made in balancing our state's budget, protecting our state's business climate, and investing in California's future through education; however, great challenges await us during the 2015-16 session as California faces underemployment, underperforming schools, and access to affordable housing. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to improve wage growth, early childhood education, and ensuring that homeownership remains an attainable American Dream.”
Sacramento - In the old days of the Wild West it was cattle rustling; today it's used cooking oil that's driving the black market.
"Kitchen grease theft has become big business. Thieves strike in the night, siphon off used grease from the backs of restaurants and sell it on the black market to renderers who turn it into liquid gold - biodiesel fuel," explained Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena). ‘This bill will help law enforcement sort out the legitimate companies from the thieves."
