March 2026 Newsletter

California has a strong voice in Washington. I recently joined the Senate leadership delegation in Washington, D.C., to discuss how the recently approved H.R. 1 is negatively impacting our state and the communities we represent. These conversations are about making sure California’s priorities are heard at the national level and advocating for the people who call our state home. Together, we can continue working toward a brighter future for all Californians.

SD20, we know everything is expensive right now, and that makes our task this Legislative Session clear and urgent: we must focus on affordability. Every bill we consider should be viewed through the lens of Californians who are anxious about their day-to-day cost of living. That’s why I always ask: Does this lower everyday costs for families? Does it improve public services in ways people can truly see and feel?

This is the list of our most recent affordability focused bills: 

• SB 1007: Limits HOA rate increases, gives homeowners the ability to review evidence of a violation and gives clear hoa fee usage.

• SB 1125: Establishes a statewide low-income water rate assistance program.

• SB 1200: Creates more childcare slots for working families and supports childcare providers.

• SB 1272: Protects homeowners from unfair penalties when zoning violations were caused by previous property owners.

Baseball is back! The Sylmar Independent Baseball League invited me to opening day where the kids pressured me to pitch a curb ball. Investing in youth sports is about more than just the game, it’s about giving our valley kids the tools to find their passion and become their best selves. You can watch the recap video HERE!

More pupusas on your plate and money in your bank with my Tacos and Taxes with Pupusas, happening April 11! I’m thrilled to partner once again with Golden State Opportunity, New Economics for Women, and Magnolia Science Academy in Reseda to bring IRS-certified tax preparers directly to my constituents. Find out if you qualify for additional state tax credits while enjoying delicious pupusas, for free! My District staff will also be on-site to share how we can assist you with state services. Secure your appointment bit.ly/sd20tacostaxespupusas.

SD20! Are you looking for a California friendly lawn makeover! LADWP’s Landscape Efficiency Assistance Program (LEAP) to help those who live in disadvantaged communities replace traditional lawns with a sustainable, drought-tolerant landscape for FREE. Read more about this opportunity HERE!

NEW CHANGES TO MEDI-CAL AND CAL FRESH! The LA County Department of Public Social Services is partnering with the Board of Supervisors to provide constituents information webinars, short information videos, digital graphics, and more to help inform on the new state and federal policy updates. You can now watch the webinars HERE and be sure to visit their WEBSITE for more information.
 

Reseda Represent! Andy Linton and his doberman Penny, from our very own Reseda, CA, made headlines after their big win at the 150th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York. Penny is only the second doberman to have won best in show in 37 years! The first was also being handled by Andy Linton. Congratulations to Andy Linton and Penny!

Thank you for reading the Senate District 20 Newsletter
 

May you and your families be well,

Senator Caroline Menjivar, MSW