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Barragán, Obernolte Propose AI Transparency Measure to Build Public Trust

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Barragán, Obernolte Propose AI Transparency Measure to Build Public Trust

 

Washington, D.C. — Rep’s. Nanette Barragán (D-CA) and Jay Obernolte (R-CA) Jan 7 introduced bipartisan legislation to help Americans better understand artificial intelligence (AI), protect consumers, and prepare workers for the growing number of opportunities created by AI-driven technologies.

The Artificial Intelligence Public Awareness and Education Campaign Act would direct the Secretary of Commerce to carry out a nationwide public awareness and education campaign focused on the benefits, risks, and increasing prevalence of AI in Americans’ daily lives. Companion bipartisan legislation has already been introduced in the Senate by Senators Todd Young and Brian Schatz.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly embedded in everyday life, from workplace tools and consumer applications to online content, but public understanding and trust have not kept pace. According to a 2025 Pew Research Center survey, only 13% of adults feel they have a great deal or quite a bit of control over how AI is used in their lives, while a majority say they want more control.

The legislation also responds to growing workforce impacts. One in five U.S. workers now report using AI in some part of their job, yet many receive little guidance or training. By improving AI literacy and highlighting workforce pathways, the bill aims to help Americans take advantage of new economic opportunities while reducing risk.

The Artificial Intelligence Public Awareness and Education Campaign Act would require the Department of Commerce to provide information on:

  • Workforce opportunities, including opportunities within the federal government, for individuals with experience developing, deploying, or using AI.
  • The rights of individuals under existing law with respect to artificial intelligence.
  • Best practices for identifying and differentiating AI-generated media, including deepfakes and chatbot-generated content.
  • The prevalence of AI in everyday life, including commercial and personal applications.

Details: View the full text of the bill HERE

County Takes Action to Safeguard Gender-Affirming Care for Young People

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County Takes Action to Safeguard Gender-Affirming Care for Young People

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Jan. 6 approved a motion by Chair Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath aimed at protecting access to gender-affirming health care for transgender, intersex, and gender-nonconforming young people, pushing back against federal rules and a declaration that would limit pediatric care for these communities.

The motion directs county officials to oppose a declaration and proposed U.S. Department of Health and Human Services regulations from the Trump administration that would block Medicaid coverage for gender-affirming care for patients under 18 and penalize hospitals and providers that provide such services.

Here is the Supervisors’ quote for item 17: “Los Angeles County will not abandon young people and families who rely on medically sound, compassionate care because of the Trump Administration’s hateful tactics,” said Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath. “Gender-affirming care is grounded in medical expertise, patient trust, and compassion—and it saves lives. It is not only immoral but deeply irresponsible to deprive people of safe, evidence-based health care. In Los Angeles County, we will continue to lead with integrity and care.”

The motion also instructs county counsel, working with the Departments of Health Services, Public Health, Mental Health, Children and Family Services, and Youth Development, to submit public comments during the federal rulemaking process and explore available legal options, including potential litigation, before the rules are finalized.

Leading medical organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, recognize gender-affirming care as a vital component of pediatric medicine. The motion emphasizes that restricting access to such care could elevate both mental and physical health risks for young people.

Details: View the motion here.

Gov. Newsom Announces Appointments

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Gov. Newsom Announces Appointments

 

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom in December announced the following appointments:

Joni A. Forge, of Long Beach, has been reappointed to the Dental Board of California, where she has served since 2022. Forge has been a dentist at the CDI Dental Group since 2018 and an adjunct clinical professor at the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry #LosAngeles, #LongBeach, #Appointments

since 2022. She was owner and a dentist at Overhill Dental from 1995 to 2021. Forge was owner and a dentist at Joni Forge DDS from 1985 to 2004. She is a Member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, National Dental Association, a fellow with American College of Dentists, and a Fellow with the Pierre Fauchard Academy. Forge earned a Doctor of Dentistry degree from the University of California, San Francisco and a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences from University of California, Irvine. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Forge is a Democrat.

Denise Pines, of Los Angeles, has been reappointed to the Osteopathic Medical Board of California, where she has served since 2021. Pines has been co-founder and chief executive officer at Women in the Room Productions since 2018, and co-founder and chief executive officer, of Tea Botanics since 2017. She was president at The Smiley Group, Inc. from 1999 to 2017. Pines was manager at AT&T from 1994 to 1998. She was a public relations specialist at Neiman Marcus from 1990 to 1993. Pines was an associate manager at Louis Vuitton from 1988 to 1990. She is a board member at the Federation of State Medical Boards and a Member of the NAACP Image Awards Committee and Martin Luther King Community Foundation. Pines earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Stanford University, a Master of Arts degree in International Business and Trade Management from John F. Kennedy University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from California State University, San Francisco. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Pines is a Democrat.

Public Health Reaffirms: No Modifications to Immunization Schedules or Vaccine Availability in Los Angeles County

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Public Health Reaffirms: No Modifications to Immunization Schedules or Vaccine Availability in Los Angeles County

 

Due to a Jan. 6 announcement by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the changes to childhood vaccine recommendations, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reaffirms that Los Angeles County is following existing California Department of Public Health (CDPH) vaccination guidelines for children. There are no modifications to immunization schedules or vaccine availability for people living in Los Angeles County, at this time.

There is no new scientific evidence indicating that the existing childhood vaccination schedule is ineffective or unsafe. The current CDPH guidelines are based on decades of research, ongoing safety monitoring, and transparent scientific review designed to protect children from serious and preventable diseases. This body of evidence consistently demonstrates that the recommended schedule provides early, effective protection during the periods when children are most vulnerable to severe disease. Any changes to immunization recommendations should be grounded in clear scientific evidence and a transparent decision-making process to maintain public trust and safeguard community health.

Public Health said that this is another example of federal health officials sowing confusion and doubt about trusted measures that have protected children from disease for decades.

Public Health noted federal officials have compared this nation’s vaccine recommendations to those in smaller countries, which is a misleading comparison. Comparisons to childhood vaccine schedules in other countries must be viewed in the context of population demographics, local public health infrastructure, healthcare access, and disease prevalence. The department noted variation among international schedules is not a scientific justification for altering a vaccination schedule that has been proven safe and effective over decades. International immunization schedules often differ because countries face distinct disease burdens, healthcare infrastructure challenges, and population health needs. These differences do not indicate that the U.S. schedule is excessive or unnecessary, but rather that vaccination programs are appropriately tailored to local public health conditions.

The decision by federal officials to dramatically change the vaccine schedule without any transparency or input from subject matter experts in vaccine preventable diseases in the United States will lead to confusion and increased administrative burdens on parents and pediatric providers, warned Public Health. Ultimately, this chaos and ongoing revisions to established and data-driven health policies may affect the health of children and increase the risk and prevalence of vaccine preventable diseases.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will continue to monitor guidance from CDPH and remains committed to evidence-based practices that prioritize the health and safety of children and families across the county. Individuals with questions about vaccine recommendations should contact their health care provider.

Details: ph.lacounty.gov/vaccines

Solis Motion, Along With Hahn & Horvath’s Proclaims January 2026 Human Trafficking Prevention Month

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Solis Motion, Along With Hahn & Horvath’s Proclaims January 2026 Human Trafficking Prevention Month

LOS ANGELES. — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Jan. 6 approved a motion by Chair and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis proclaiming January 2026 as Human Trafficking Prevention Month and reaffirming the county’s commitment to preventing trafficking and supporting survivors.

As well, a motion by Supervisor’s Hahn and Horvath proclaims January 2026 as “Human Trafficking Prevention Month” and reaffirmed the county’s commitment to providing survivor-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive services, and promoting its public awareness campaigns.

“Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights that affects workers, children and families in communities across Los Angeles County, often out of sight and without victims knowing where to turn for help,” said Chair Hilda L. Solis. “This proclamation is about more than awareness. It is about strengthening prevention, improving coordination across County agencies and making sure survivors can access culturally competent, trauma-informed services that put their safety and dignity first.”

The motion also highlights the continued prevalence of both labor and sex trafficking across Los Angeles County. Trafficking often remains hidden due to fear, coercion, language barriers, and limited public awareness.

The proclamation builds on prior board actions aimed at strengthening countywide responses, including efforts to assess service gaps, improve coordination among departments and enhance data-sharing strategies to better identify and assist victims.

Several county departments play a role in prevention and response and the office of labor equity also conducts outreach and education to help workers recognize signs of exploitation and connect with available resources.

Chair Solis emphasized that increased awareness and prevention efforts are especially important as Los Angeles prepares to host major international events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The motion calls for the year-round promotion of both the office of labor equity’s public awareness campaign and available county and non-county survivor-centered services.

Details: View the motion here.

No Public Money for Jan. 6 Rioters: Padilla, Whitehouse Introduce New Bills

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No Public Money for Jan. 6 Rioters: Padilla, Whitehouse Introduce New Bills

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the fifth anniversary of the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) introduced a pair of bills to prevent Jan. 6 rioters from receiving payouts from the federal government.

Roughly 400 people who the Trump Administration pardoned or granted clemency to after their involvement in the January 6 attacks are currently seeking millions of dollars in taxpayer funds because they were prosecuted for their criminal actions. Most claimants are seeking $1 million to $10 million from the U.S. government. Leaders of the “Proud Boys” far-right militant organization alone are suing for $100 million, and senior Department of Justice official Ed Martin reportedly supports compensating violent Jan. 6 insurrectionists.

The No Rewards for January 6 Rioters Act would broadly prohibit the use of federal funds to compensate any Jan. 6 rioters who were prosecuted for their involvement in the attack on the Capitol and stop the ongoing refunds of fines that were paid as part of their convictions, while the No Settlements for January 6 Law Enforcement Assaulters Act would forbid the federal government from paying out any legal settlements to any January 6 rioters who were convicted of assaulting law enforcement officers during the Capitol insurrection.

“Five years after a violent swarm of insurrectionists stormed our nation’s Capitol, assaulted law enforcement officers, and attacked our very democracy, issuing cash payouts to these rioters is unthinkable,” said Senator Padilla. “These insurrectionists should still be serving their sentences and paying fines for damages they caused to the Capitol — not receiving refunds or cash rewards from the Trump Administration. Our bills would hold these rioters accountable and protect taxpayers by putting an end to Donald Trump’s callous attempt to rewrite history with these illegal cash payouts.”

“Members of both parties who were here on January 6, 2021 remember the chaos and violence of that day, which resulted in police officers’ deaths and injuries. No matter how Trump’s MAGA goons now try to twist it, the January 6 attack on our Capitol was an assault on our democracy. Trump’s blanket day-one pardons for members of the January 6 mob were a slap in the face to the brave law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect the country. Our bills make clear that no one who stormed the Capitol should get a taxpayer-funded cash giveaway, especially not those who violently assaulted police officers,” said Senator Whitehouse.

The violent mob that stormed the Capitol on January 6, 2021, attempting to prevent the certification of the 2020 election results, caused roughly $3 million in damages to the Capitol building, injured more than 100 law enforcement officers, and threatened members and their staff. Damage to the building included widespread vandalism, ruined furniture, shattered glass, broken doors, defaced artwork, and the desecration of the halls of Congress. Convicted January 6 insurrectionists paid about $400,000 in court-ordered restitution to cover the damages they caused, which has since been transferred to the Treasury Department, from where the funds can only be withdrawn by Congress.

Last year, the Department of Justice (DOJ) took a meeting with a lawyer for January 6 insurrectionists where DOJ was asked to create a victims compensation fund, similar to that used to compensate September 11, 2001 victims, to issue cash rewards for alleged “harms” these rioters faced. Their attorney stated that DOJ official Ed Martin is “100 percent on our side.” Any such fund would be both deeply corrupt and unlawful, as the establishment of a separate fund requires Congressional action, but rioters could seek to “sue and settle” claims and raid the federal Judgment Fund instead, similar to claims that President Trump himself has made for $230 million in compensation.

The No Rewards for January 6 Rioters Act would:

  • Prohibit the use of federal funds to compensate prosecuted January 6 rioters, including by barring the establishment of a victim compensation fund and by prohibiting the Justice Department from entering into settlement agreements;
  • Prohibit further refunds of restitution payments; and
  • Authorize the Secretary of the Treasury to transfer the remaining restitution funds to the Architect of the Capitol.

The No Settlements for January 6 Law Enforcement Assaulters Act would:

  • Apply only to January 6 rioters who were convicted of assaulting a law enforcement officer pursuant to 18 USC 111 or D.C. Code 22-405 on January 6; and
  • Bar any federal funds being used to pay any legal settlement to any such individuals, if they sue for any claims relating to January 6.

Both bills are endorsed by Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW); Democracy Defenders Action; Protect Democracy; Sgt. Aquilino A. Gonell, Fr. United States Capitol Police; Officer Harry Dunn, Fr. United States Capitol Police; and Officer Daniel Hodges, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department (endorsement in his personal capacity).

Last year, Senator Padilla, Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) led seven of their Senate colleagues in demanding that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) abandon any efforts to refund or financially reward convicted January 6 insurrectionists. Padilla, Durbin, and Klobuchar previously led their colleagues in denouncing DOJ’s court arguments that the federal government should refund insurrectionists for the restitution payments they made for damage they caused to the Capitol building. Since then, restitution refund requests have almost all been denied, but in August, a judge ordered the government to refund the restitution a January 6 insurrectionist paid before they were pardoned and their case was vacated.

Full text of the bill is available here.

LBPD Promotes New Deputy Chief

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LBPD Promotes New Deputy Chief

 

LONG BEACH — Long Beach Chief of Police Wally Hebeish Dec. 5 announced his appointment of Commander Norma Carrillo to the position of deputy chief. This promotion is effective on Jan.10.

“I am extremely proud to announce the promotion of Commander Norma Carrillo to the position of Deputy Chief,” said Chief of Police Wally Hebeish. “Deputy Chief Carrillo has clearly demonstrated a commitment to the future of our police department and the safety of our city. Her focus on education and professional development has effectively positioned her for continued success. I have no doubt she will excel in her new role, while continuing to help us move the department forward and provide excellent service to our entire Long Beach community.”

Deputy Chief Norma Carrillo joined the Long Beach Police Department as a police recruit in 2000. She was promoted to sergeant in 2018, lieutenant in 2022, commander in 2024, and deputy chief in 2026.

Deputy Chief Carrillo has worked a variety of assignments throughout her career including Internal Affairs, sex crimes, computer crimes, police academy instructor, and the office of constitutional policing. As commander, she oversaw the training and tactical support division and most recently served as the chief of staff in the office of the chief of police.

She has played a crucial role in the LBPD’s peer support program, cadet program, and Baker to Vegas team, serving as a vice president and runner throughout her career. Deputy Chief Carrillo is also active in the community, participating in various events for the Southern California Special Olympics and Kiwanis.

“Stepping into a greater leadership role within the police department that serves the community where I was raised is both deeply meaningful and humbling,” said Deputy Chief Norma Carrillo. “I am grateful for the opportunity to lead and give back to the community that helped shape my path.”

Deputy Chief Carrillo earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Studies from California State University, Long Beach and a Master of Science degree in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership from the University of San Diego. She is also a graduate of the Leadership Long Beach program.

Deputy Chief Norma Carrillo will oversee the support bureau.

City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto Announces $7.7 Million Settlement in Statewide Environmental Protection Suit Against Verizon

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City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto Announces $7.7 Million Settlement in Statewide Environmental Protection Suit Against Verizon

 

LOS ANGELES — City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto Jan. 5 announced that Verizon Wireless has agreed to pay $7.7 million to resolve a statewide civil enforcement action arising from its alleged violations of environmental and hazardous materials laws at its telecommunication facilities throughout Southern California. In filing the suit, Feldstein Soto joined the Orange County district attorney’s office and district attorneys in Los Angeles, San Diego, Ventura, Imperial, Riverside, and San Bernardino.

Beginning seven years ago in January 2019, regulatory violations were identified at numerous Verizon Wireless facilities where hazardous materials and above ground petroleum storage tanks are used to supply emergency generators and backup power systems. Verizon uses materials such as lead acid batteries and petroleum products which are subject to comprehensive reporting, permitting, and management requirements under California law. The complaint also alleges that Verizon repeatedly failed to prepare, submit and maintain accurate Hazardous Materials Business Plan in accordance with The California Environmental Protection Agency (“CalEPA”).

Verizon Wireless also failed to allow inspections at multiple locations and pay required permit fees that support local oversight of hazardous materials. These requirements exist to ensure that first responders, environmental regulators, and public safety officials have accurate information about hazardous materials stored at commercial sites in case of an emergency.

Under the judgment, Verizon Wireless will pay a total of $7.7 million including $7,125,000 in civil penalties, $200,000 in investigative costs and $375,000 in Supplemental Environmental Projects. Of this amount, the LA City Attorney’s Office will receive more than $800,000 in penalties. LAFD, our City’s Certified Unified Program Agency – which enforces CalEPA’s hazardous waste and hazardous materials regulations – will receive more than $315,000 in penalties.

The People of the State of California vs. Cellco Partnership DBA Verizon Wireless
Stipulation for Entry of Final Judgment and Injunction

Gov. Newsom Announces Judicial Appointments

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Gov. Newsom Announces Judicial Appointments

 

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom in December announced his appointment of six Superior Court Judges: with four in Los Angeles County.

Los Angeles Superior Court

Sarah J. Ellenberg, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Ellenberg has served as a commissioner at the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2024. She worked as an indigent defense attorney at the Independent Defense Counsel Office from 2019 to 2024 and with the California Appellate Project from 2012 to 2013. She was the co-executive director of the LAW Project of Los Angeles from 2019 to 2022. Ellenberg served as a deputy alternate public defender at the Los Angeles County alternate public defender’s office from 2017 to 2019 and from 2004 to 2012. She served as a deputy public defender at the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office from 2001 to 2004. Ellenberg worked as an associate at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher from 2000 to 2001. Ellenberg received a Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Juan C. Dominguez. Ellenberg is a Democrat.

Jonathan Eisenman, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Eisenman has served as the assistant general counsel at the Los Angeles Department of Water & Power since 2025. He served as a deputy city attorney at the Los Angeles city attorney’s office from 2018 to 2025. Eisenman worked as an associate at Greines, Martin, Stein & Richland from 2015 to 2018. He served as a law clerk at the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California from 2014 to 2015 and from 2011 to 2012. Eisenman served as a law clerk at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit from 2012 to 2013. He was an associate at Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld from 2008 to 2011. Eisenman received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Texas School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Scott T. Millington. Eisenman is a Democrat.

Erin Donovan, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Donovan has been a partner at Musick, Peeler & Garrett since 2012 where she also worked as an associate from 2003 to 2011. Donovan received a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Mark Hanasono to the Court of Appeal. Donovan is a Democrat.

Erin Reed, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Reed has served as a Senior Appellate Court Attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal since 2017, where she also served as an Appellate Court attorney from 2014 to 2017. Reed worked as an associate at Collins & Collins from 2013 to 2014. She served as a judicial clerk at the New Mexico Court of Appeals from 2010 to 2013. Reed received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Davis School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the elevation of Judge Armen Tamzarian to the Court of Appeal. Reed is a Democrat.

City of Carson Recognized for Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

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City of Carson Recognized for Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

CARSON, CA, December 11, 2025 – The City of Carson in December was recognized for its outstanding leadership in energy efficiency and climate action, earning a Platinum-Level distinction through the South Bay Energy and Climate Recognition Program.

Carson achieved the program’s highest level of recognition by implementing a comprehensive suite of sustainability initiatives designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expand access to clean energy, and engage the community in climate-forward solutions.

Among the key accomplishments contributing to Carson’s platinum status are the launch of an EV charging wallet program, which provides residents with reimbursements for electric vehicle charging through the Clean Power Alliance, and participation in the Southern California EVen Access Public Power-Up Program to expand equitable access to EV infrastructure.

The city also increased electric vehicle charging capacity throughout Carson, participated in statewide climate leadership forums, and maintained open, publicly accessible Environmental Commission meetings to promote transparency and community engagement.

The South Bay Energy and Climate Recognition Program tracks participating in cities’ progress through a point-based system that measures achievements across climate action and adaptation, education and engagement, and technical implementation. Platinum-level cities earn more than 30 points by demonstrating measurable impact through energy-saving programs, clean power adoption, and community-focused sustainability initiatives.

Carson was honored at the program’s annual culmination event, which celebrated the collective progress of South Bay communities working toward California’s ambitious climate goals, including the statewide target of carbon neutrality by 2045.

Details: carsonca.gov

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