Dear Friends,
We've got some catching up to do! I'm so excited to get back to sending out my monthly newsletter to you all. Since returning to the Capitol in January, Team Wilson and I have hit the ground running. From presiding over my first Assembly Transportation Committee Hearing to honoring Unsung Heroes with my California Legislative Black Caucus colleagues, this year will be busy.
I look forward to keeping you updated as we wrap up this legislative session in August.
In this update, you'll find the following:
Whether it's my District Office or my Capitol office, my door is always open for the people of the 11th Assembly District.
Warm regards,
Lori D. Wilson
Assemblywoman, District 11
WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
Happy Women's History Month! This year's theme highlights "Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion." It's a tribute to the countless women nationwide who tirelessly strive to eliminate bias and discrimination, recognizing that an uneven playing field will never bring true equality or justice. Let's honor their courage and commitment as they lead the charge for a more inclusive and just future.
IMPORTANT DEADLINES
Financial Aid for Students, Extended
The priority deadlines for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the California Dream Act (CADAA) application have been extended until April 2, 2024, for the 2024-2025 school year. By filing one of these applications, students may be eligible for various federal and state aid types, such as the Cal Grant. For more information, visit csac.ca.gov.
Program to Assist First-Time Homebuyers Relaunches in April
The California Housing Finance Agency has announced it will be administering another round of applications for the California Dream for All Shared Appreciation Loan Program, an initiative established through the 2022-23 State Budget to assist more Californians in achieving homeownership.
Under the program, first-time homebuyers can receive up to 20% of the home purchase price for use as a down payment and closing costs assistance, capped at $150,000. Repayment of the loan and a portion of the home's appreciation are due to the state upon the home's subsequent sale, with proceeds channeled into a revolving fund to benefit future homebuyers.
In the previous year, $300 million was earmarked for the program, with an additional $220 million allocated in the 2023-24 State Budget. This year's funding will specifically target first-generation homebuyers, ensuring equitable distribution across different state regions and prioritizing those in the lower-income eligibility brackets.
For eligibility criteria and application details, visit calhfa.ca.gov/dream.
AROUND THE CAPITOL
MLK Breakfast
For the second time, I had the pleasure of hosting the California Legislative Black Caucus Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Breakfast. It was another vibrant gathering featuring an insightful fireside conversation with Kwame Anku about honoring Dr. King's legacy and uplifting all Californians.
Transportation Committee
I had the honor of presiding over my first Assembly Transportation Committee Hearing. I advanced legislation to help reduce emissions in our transportation sector. There is a lot of work to do.
I look forward to improving our roads and highways, transportation equity, expanding clean technology use, and mitigating the environmental impacts of our transportation sector.
CLBC 2024 Reparations Legislative Package
On February 21st, my California Legislative Black Caucus colleagues and I introduced our 2024 Reparations Legislative Package. This year's legislative package of 14 measures tackles a wide range of issues, from criminal justice reforms to property rights to education, civil rights, and food justice. As I've stated before, this is the first step in a multi-year effort to implement the legislative recommendations in the report.
Unsung Heroes Ceremony
It was an honor to host Fairfield Librarian Mychal Threets on the Assembly Floor for this year's Unsung Heroes Ceremony. We honored Mychal with our CLBC AD 11 Unsung Hero Award.
Mychal is truly a gem for our community. He enjoys learning something new daily, including why people love their local library. He utilizes social media to share the stories of library kids and library grown-ups that he encounters in library land.
IN THE DISTRICT
Anheuser-Busch Factory Tour
My district staff and I were thrilled to join Anheuser-Busch for their factory tour in Fairfield. We explored the heart of Budweiser's brewing process, gained insights into the local industry, and heard from current employees.
State Route 37
I had the opportunity to tour State Route 37, which goes from Sonoma to Vallejo. As Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee, I understand that the Resilient SR37 project is crucial for the well-being of our communities.
Fairfield Macy's - Black History Month
I recently had the honor of participating in the Fairfield Macy's Black History Month event, organized by esteemed local author Ramona Thomas. The gathering featured local vendors and complimentary books for children courtesy of the Solano County Library. It was a wonderful occasion to unite and commemorate the depth of Black heritage, resilience, and achievements.
AROUND THE STATE
High-Speed Rail Site Tour
My colleagues and I had a blast touring the different high-speed rail construction sites in the Central Valley. As a Central Valley native, I am excited about the future of high-speed rail and its potential to link us to other regions of our wonderful state. We must continue to invest in and modernize our transportation infrastructure.
The Governor's Military Council
I was recently appointed to serve on the Governor's Military Council. As the wife of a United States Air Force Veteran and the Mother of a Marine, it is an honor to receive this Gubernatorial appointment. The Council's mission is to position California to maintain and grow military operations and provide a sustained focus on growing California's defense and national security missions in state administration.
Let's Talk!
Did you know that my office is a one-stop shop for state information and services?
As your representative in the State Assembly, my goal is to provide the highest quality of public service.
For more information or to connect with my office, visit a11.asmdc.org/lets-talk.
I look forward to serving you.
