Let’s be honest — this wasn’t an easy budget cycle. Uncertainty from the federal level, looming cuts and divisive rhetoric cast a long shadow. But here in Assembly District 40, I will always make the choice to prioritize people over politics. This budget reflects the values I hear about every day from all of you — affordability, public safety and protecting health care access.

In a time when affordability is out of reach for too many and safety concerns weigh heavily on our communities, I fought hard to make sure our district’s voice was heard in budget negotiations. Throughout the months of budget negotiations, I stood up for kids and families, veterans, survivors, and seniors — because we cannot afford not to.

I’m proud to share that we secured key victories that will deliver real, tangible relief for families.

To be clear, this budget is not perfect. I disagreed with some of the cuts and decisions made. But we also made important progress for our community and state, especially on safety and affordability.

Keeping Our Communities Safe

First and foremost, we continued to prioritize safety and security.

We took an important step toward defending and funding Proposition 36, an initiative approved by voters last November to increase penalties for crime and theft.

This first-time funding provides substance use and........

© Santa Clarita Valley Signal