SACRAMENTO — Today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2240 by Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno) and Senate Bill 1105 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego), two of the California Latino Legislative Caucus’s (CLLC) priority bills. These bills help provide safe and affordable housing for our farmworkers and safe working conditions, reinforcing the importance of addressing the most critical issues faced by the Latino community in California.
California, known for its abundant agricultural output, is vital to the nation's food production. The state boasts of producing nearly two-thirds of the nation's fruits, vegetables, and nuts. With an estimated workforce of between 471,000 and 626,000 farm workers, California is a hub for agricultural labor. It is noteworthy that approximately one-third to one-half of all farmworkers in America are based in California, comprising a substantial population of roughly 500,000 to 800,000 farmworkers.
“The California Latino Legislative Caucus has played a pivotal role in championing the rights of farmworkers for many years. As members of the Caucus, we take great pride in advancing the welfare of farmworkers and other underserved groups across California,” said Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside), Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus.
“I deeply appreciate that Governor Newsom has signed AB 2240 and that Speaker Rivas, as principal co-author, made this a priority. We know these changes will improve the lives of hard-working farmworkers and their families and that this effort was always about giving them the dignity, respect, and protection that they have earned and deserve,” said Assemblymember Dr. Joaquin Arambula (D-Fresno), author of Assembly Bill 2240.
“Farmworkers in California are often predominantly of Latino heritage. They are a critical, yet often exploited backbone of California's thriving agricultural economy, which feeds our nation. They proudly share a culture emphasizing dedication and sacrifice, making it imperative we adapt our policies to give these workers the freedom and peace of mind to use their hard earned sick days to protect their health,” said Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego), author of Senate Bill 1105.
“We thank Governor Newsom for his commitment to upholding the rights of farmworker communities by signing Assembly Bill 2240, which enables families to maintain strong connections within their communities and supports their children's education without potential disruption, as well as his signing of Senate Bill 1105, which allows farmworkers to have paid sick leave during extreme weather conditions during a local or state emergency. Our hardworking farmworker communities deserve access to affordable, safe, and suitable housing conditions throughout the year. It is crucial we continue to ensure farmworkers can have safe and affordable homes and working conditions," Chair Cervantes added.
For more information about the California Latino Legislative Caucus, please visit our website at latinocaucus.legislature.ca.gov.
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