Two Bills by Majority Leader Gonzalez: Indiginous Health Disparities and Savings for Oil Cleanups Signed into Law by Gov. Newsom

Legislation to Address Latino and Indigenous Health Disparities Signed Into Law by the Governor

SACRAMENTO — On Sept. 28, Senate Bill 1016, the Latino & Indigenous Health Disparities Reduction Act by Majority Leader Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) was signed into law by the Governor. The legislation will require the state’s health department to collect and detail health data specific to Latino and Indigenous Mesoamerican subgroups, enabling a more accurate understanding of their unique health needs. By moving policy and research away from generalized, aggregated data, SB 1016 will help save lives and prevent poor health outcomes for these communities, ensuring they have access to vital health services.

“Latinos and Indigenous Mesoamericans are vibrant and diverse communities, each with unique health needs,” said Majority Leader Gonzalez. “Every Latino deserves to be seen, heard, and represented in our healthcare system, especially in the data that drives resource allocation. With the Latino and Indigenous Health Disparities Reduction Act our state is making significant strides toward health equity for all Californians. I am grateful to Governor Newsom for signing this bill into law, and also extend my heartfelt thanks to the many community advocates who have championed this cause and continue to fight tirelessly for health equity in our communities.”

Legislation to Secure Savings for Oil Cleanup Fund in Long Beach Signed Into Law by the Governor

SACRAMENTO — Sept. 25, 2024, Senate Bill 1425 by Majority Leader Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) to secure increased savings for an existing oil cleanup fund in Long Beach, was signed into law by Gov. Newsom. This law will increase California’s monthly contribution toward covering the state’s liability for decommissioning oil operations in the Long Beach tidelands. The state is responsible for over $1 billion in estimated remediation costs for these long-running oil operations. By reserving this greater amount of production revenues now, the state will be better prepared to cover oil cleanup costs, reduce future debt, and prevent these expenses from falling on taxpayers.