By: Staff
Governor Gavin Newsom signed a transformative bill package, spearheaded by Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas, designed to protect and empower California’s working families while removing hurdles to employment and education.
“I’m incredibly gratified that Governor Newsom signed our bill package that will better protect and empower California’s working families,” said Senator Smallwood-Cuevas. “This bill signing will also allow those seeking to rehabilitate their lives an opportunity to more fully participate in California’s workforce and communities.”
The package includes three pivotal bills: SB 497 or the Equal Pay and Anti-Retaliation Act, SB 521 or Campus Protection for Pregnant and Parenting Students, and SB 749 or Elimination of the Limitation. SB 497 protects workers reporting labor violations from retaliation, empowering them to come forward without fear.
“Governor Newsom’s signature on SB 497 means workers will be empowered to report workplace violations without fear of retaliation,” said Senator Smallwood-Cuevas. “Through the partnership of the California Coalition for Worker Power and the courage of the many workers who came forward to tell their stories of abuse and exploitation, many thousands of workers will experience less fear and greater access to justice.”
SB 521 assists CalWORKs in securing necessary accommodations for pregnant, parenting, and lactating students, a move sponsored by Women’s Foundation California and the Solis Policy Institute.
“Parenting students pursue higher education so they can join the workforce to achieve financial security and a better future for their families,” said Senator Smallwood-Cuevas. “SB 521 will support these students with the necessary accommodations they need to further their education that will impact the well-being of their families.”
Lastly, SB 749, backed by Californians for Safety and Justice, removes the application deadline for individuals seeking to reduce old, non-violent felony convictions to misdemeanors under Proposition 47. This change alleviates the burden on courts and allows eligible Californians to participate more fully in their communities and the workforce. Together, these bills signal a significant stride towards a more inclusive and equitable California.
Senator Smallwood-Cuevas, a seasoned labor organizer and civil rights activist, represents the 28th Senate District, comprising South Los Angeles, Culver City, West Los Angeles, Century City, and Downtown Los Angeles.