Over 300 Community Members Join Latino Caucus in Celebrating Legislative Victories, Gov. Brown’s Leadership

June 24, 2014

Los Angeles Members of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, including Chair Senator Ricardo Lara (D-Huntington Park/Long Beach) and Senate President pro Tempore-elect Kevin de León (D-Los Angeles) today celebrated the Caucus’ 2013 legislative successes and recognized Governor Jerry Brown for his leadership signing critical legislation impacting California’s Latino community at a community event.  Held at the historic Pico House located in the Pueblo de Los Angeles, the event brought together hundreds of community members directly impacted by legislation prioritized by the Latino Caucus and signed by the Governor.

“Last year was a watershed year in California’s impact on immigration policy and we’re setting the national curve,” said Senator Ricardo Lara.  “From driver’s licenses for all Californians to passing the TRUST Act, we are demonstrating our commitment to embracing and integrating our immigrant communities.  We thank Governor Brown for his leadership and support as we continue strengthening our state and working to keep families together.”

In 2013, the Latino Caucus prioritized the passage of AB 60, authored by Assembly Member and Latino Caucus Vice Chair Luis Alejo (D-Salinas) which allowed undocumented Californians the ability to obtain licenses.  The measure was signed by Governor Brown on October 3, 2013.

The Governor also signed the TRUST Act, which limits cruel and costly immigration “hold” requests in local jails, and the Domestic Worker Bill of Rights – both among 2013 priority bills for the Latino Caucus. 

“America deserves immigration policy that doesn’t ruthlessly separate families, and we’ve tired of waiting for Washington to take action,” said Senate President pro Tempore-elect Kevin de León.  “California will continue to lead the country by doing everything possible to ensure that all of our residents, regardless of their immigration status, are safe and have the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives.”

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Contact: Jesse Melgar / (916) 651-4033 / Jesse.Melgar@sen.ca.gov