Upcoming Events • A Celebration of Black History: A Journey In Four Parts Each Saturdays at 8:00PM February 5, 12, 19, 26, 2011 Inside This Issue • Senator Curren D. Price , 2011 Committee Assignments • Governor and Legislature Set Aggressive Budget Schedule • Gov Jerry Brown Speaks at Legislative Black Caucus' Annual Martin Luther King, Jr Breakfast Celebration • Senator Price Introduces SB 100, Legislation to Provide Stronger Oversight of Surgical Centers • Senator Price Discusses Strategies with CMTA to Promote Economic Development in California • Black Caucus Hosts "Get on Board" A Historical Exhibit of California Freedom Riders at the California Museum • 26th Annual Kingdom Day Parade • Friends of the Hollywood Central Park Gala and Board of Directors meeting • Senator Price's SHeroes • Keep Your Home California • New State Law Allows for Taxpayers to Contribute to the Arts on their State Tax Form • Federal Tax Holiday Continues • Cash for College Deadline: March 2, 2011 • National Park Service Continues Fee-Free Days in 2011 • Plugging in to Electric Car Rebate Program • At Your Service Committee Membership Chair of: • Business, Professions and Economic Development • Joint Committee on the Arts • Select Committee on Procurement • California Legislative Black Caucus Member of: Standing Committees • Appropriations • Insurance • Education • Public Safety Los Angeles Resources • Home improvements, construction, permits and zoning • Traffic updates • Find a job with the City • Pay your DWP bill • DWP rebates and programs • Water conservation • Save energy at home • Pay your parking tickets online • Request graffiti removal • Recycle bulky items • Report a pothole • Request street lighting • Report problems with street lights • Bus schedules - Metro / DASH • Airports • Adopt an animal • Animal licenses • Find a library • Pay your library fines • Education, health and safety Email me

February 2011 Dear Friends and Neighbors, Welcome, to a very special edition of the Senate District 26 enewsletter as we celebrate throughout our nation Black History Month! Black History month is an important time to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of African Americans whose courage, talent, and wisdom have changed the social and political landscape of our great state of California and our nation. It is my hope that these lessons will help to bond our communities and remind us that we are all a part of the history of this great country. This special edition of the eNewsletter will update you on important issues, events and will also brief you on state programs that have an impact on you and your community. The start of the New Year is always a busy time at the Capitol. The New Year brings the start of a new legislative session, the Governor's State of the State speech, as well as our first look at the Governor's proposed budget. As I'm sure you are aware, California is faced with many difficult challenges and tough decisions that lie head. Challenges unlike any we have experienced in more than two generations, with record high unemployment, a mounting housing crisis, a struggling economy and a $25 billion state budget shortfall. I want you to know that I am working tirelessly with my colleagues in Sacramento to address these important issues. I also invite you to visit my official Senate website on a frequent basis to follow the progress of my legislative proposals and stay up-to-date on state matters of importance to you. You may log on to be informed about community events taking place in your neighborhood or to locate websites links to federal, state and local government offices. Don't hesitate to contact my staff or me whenever you have issues of concern or require attention. Email my eNewsletter to your neighborhood contacts and urge them to sign up to receive future issues. Thank you for the privilege of serving as your State Senator. Sincerely, SENATOR CURREN D. PRICE JR. State Capitol Update: Senator Curren D. Price , 2011 Committee Assignments Senator Price has assumed a number of committee responsibilities since being sworn into the Senate. Senator Price was chosen by Senate Leadership to chair and be a member of a range of important legislative committees that reflect his priorities and interests. They are as follows: California Legislative Black Caucus, Chair Business, Professions, and Economic Development, Chair Joint Committee on the Arts, Chair Appropriations Insurance Education Public Safety Governor and Legislature Set Aggressive Budget Schedule In an effort to correct California's budget deficit and deliver an on-time budget, Governor Jerry Brown is working with state legislators on an aggressive schedule of budget action and tough-medicine budget solutions. Governor Brown released his proposed budget at a press conference on January 10 (full text of the Governor's remarks). That same day, Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg voiced his thoughts and reaction to the Governor's proposals. Legislators will now hold a series of budget subcommittee hearings at the State Capitol so that members can examine the proposals and the public can voice their opinion on the Governor's proposals. Many Democratic State Senators are planning budget town halls in their home districts, so that Californians can directly engage in the difficult budget decisions ahead. Governor Brown's proposed budget recognizes a total budget deficit of $25.4 billion by the end of the budget year on June 30, 2012. To correct this deficit, Brown has identified a mix of expenditurereductions, revenues and other solutions that underscore the need for "shared sacrifice" across state and local governments. The Governor has proposed significant government restructuring, including a state and local public safety realignment plan that would shift low-risk offenders to county jails and out of over-crowded state prisons. The Governor is asking the Legislature to place a measure on the ballot to extend existing taxes in a June special election. If approved, these funds will continue funding for public education and help fund the public safety realignment plan. As a result, the Governor's budget will remain balanced through 2014-2015. The Senate Majority Caucus maintains a budget focus site to help keep track of recent news on the state budget. In addition, the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee has prepared a detailed PowerPoint presentation on the Governor's proposed budget that includes specifics about the realignment of state services (like incarceration of low-risk inmates) to local jurisdictions. Gov Jerry Brown Speaks at Legislative Black Caucus' Annual Martin Luther King, Jr Breakfast Celebration Newly elected Governor Jerry Brown delivered the keynote address at the annual MLK, Jr. Civil Rights Leadership Awards Breakfast hosted by the California Legislative Black Caucus on Thursday, January 20th at 7:30 a.m. at the Sheraton Grand Hotel, 1230 J Street, Sacramento. The Caucus honored Governor Brown by awarding him their Leadership and Courage Award. "It is an honor to have our Governor start the New Year with the African American community, breaking bread and celebrating Civil Rights Leaders past and present," said Senator Curren D. Price, newly elected chair of the Legislative Black Caucus. Governor Brown both has an exemplary record of commitment to social justice and the California Legislative Black Caucus looks forward to working with him to make our State a place where all live in justice and equality of opportunity." Click here to see who in addition to Governor Brown was honored at the annual MLK, Jr. Civil Rights Leadership Awards Breakfast. For more on the event including the Governor's remarks click here

Senator Price Introduces SB 100, Legislation to Provide Stronger Oversight of Surgical Centers

Senator Curren D. Price, Jr. (D-Los Angeles) introduced SB 100 legislation that will provide greater oversight and strengthen regulation of surgical clinics where cosmetic surgeries are performed, and of fertility clinics.

These surgical clinics have come under closer scrutiny since the 2007 death of Donda West, mother of musician Kanye West. The death of Ms. West, less than 24 hours after she had undergone several surgeries in a surgical clinic, revealed the lack of oversight of these clinics, many of which do not have specific requirements dealing with pre- and post-operative procedures.

SB 100 also establishes stronger standards for fertility clinics like the one that allowed so-called Octomom, Nadya Suleman, to become pregnant with octuplets in 2009.

"This bill puts the public's safety first," said Senator Curren Price, who chairs the Senate Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee. "We have had too many deaths, too many injuries and too many medical malpractice cases to continue to allow these clinics to operate without stronger standards and swifter disciplinary measures."

Senator Price Discusses Strategies with CMTA to Promote Economic Development in California

Senator Price, on Tuesday, January 25, met with the Executive Committee of the California Manufacturers and Technology Association (CMTA) to share ideas and identify strategies to attract new investment and jobs to California. The purpose of the executive session, which was convened at CMTA's headquarters in Sacramento, was to explore ways to mitigate the loss of over 630,000 manufacturing jobs in California. Several issues were discussed to address this concern, including a proposal to make California's regulatory system more efficient by requiring an independent economic analysis of all state regulatory mandates, and the industry's dire need to fill a shortage of electrical and mechanical technicians. The Senator will continue to work with the CMTA on solutions to address these and other concerns

Black Caucus Hosts "Get on Board" A Historical Exhibit of California Freedom Riders at the California Museum

In honor of Black History Month, the California Legislative Black Caucus is hosting Get On Board: Stories of the Los Angeles to Houston Freedom Ride, a historical exhibitwhich highlights the seldom heard story of CORE's (Congress of Racial Equality) freedom ride from Los Angeles, California to Houston, Texas in August of 1961.

The exhibit will be on display through May 29th at the California Museum for Women, History and the Arts, at 1020 O Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the freedom rides, this exhibition underscores the ambitious optimism that inspired 11 Californians to leave their schools, their families and their homes to Get On Board a train for a ride to secure the promise of freedom and liberty for all Americans.

Houston was not the intended destination for the 11 students, but the Freedom Riders, both men and women, black and white, became entrenched in the unique civil rights history of Texas.

"We are really honored to showcase this unique collection in the State Capitol, and share a piece of our history with a wide population of citizens, young and old," said Senator Curren D. Price, Jr., Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus.

Senator Curren D. Price Appointed Chair of Business, Profession and Economic Development Committee

Senator Curren D. Price was appointed the new chair of the Senate Business and Professions and Economic Development committee by Senate President pro Tem Darrell Steinberg shortly after he was sworn in to his first full term as Senator of the 26th Senate District on Monday, December 6, 2010.
The committee oversees legislation relating to business and professional practices and regulations other than bills relating to horseracing, alcoholic beverages, and oil, mining, geothermal, or forestry industries.

Senator Price has introduced legislation throughout his career in the Assembly and Senate which focuses on economic development and job creation. His bills signed by the Governor have aided small businesses and streamlined the bureaucratic red tape for securing state contracts.

"I am extremely honored to be selected to head such an important and influential committee during this time of economic challenge in the state. I am committed to helping create an environment where economic development and job creation continue to grow."

In the District:

26th Annual Kingdom Day Parade

January 17, 2011 Senator Price participated in 26th Annual Kingdom Day Parade themed "Working together we can make a dream come true". Thousands of spectators including dignitaries, drill teams, marching bands, dance groups, neighborhood groups and equestrian riders took part in Southern California's largest Kingdom day observance .

Friends of the Hollywood Central Park Gala and Board of Directors meeting

Senator Price recently attended the 2nd Annual "For the Love of Hollywood" Gala for the Friends of the Hollywood Central Park. Friends of the Hollywood Central Park is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a 44 acre street level park over the Hollywood Freeway in a densely populated and park-poor area of the City. The Park will be a major stimulus for the Los Angeles economy by serving as an economic engine for construction jobs, tourism and development opportunities. Senator Price was also invited to speak directly with the Board of Directors for the nonprofit to give an update on the State Senate and to hear some of their concerns.

To learn more about the park please visit http://hollywoodfreewaycentralpark.org/

The Gala was Thursday, January 6, 2011 and the Board of Directors meeting was Friday, January 7, 2011.

People Making a Difference in the 26th District:

Senator Price's SHeroes

A SHero is a woman who demonstrates pride, volunteerism and commitment to her community in a remarkable manner. Each year Senator Price honors new remarkable women as "SHeroes", the SHeroes that were honored in previous years act as an advisory body to Senator Price while still continuing all of the activities that warranted them getting the honor in the first place.

Linda Thompson, Executive Director, Pathways To Your Future and SHEROE participated in the day of legislative visits on behalf of homeless youth on Monday, January 24, 2011 in Sacramento, organized by the California Coalition for Youth and the John Burton Foundation Homeless Youth Capacity Building Project. Pictured are Linda Thompson and other Homeless Youth Capacity Building Project Members visiting Senator Price and discussing the needs of homeless youth in District 26. Thank you Senator for taking the time to discuss this most urgent need and giving your continued support to homeless youth!

Marilyn Weinger (SHero 2009) at the Martin Luther King Gospel Fest in Leimert Park, Los Angeles on Jan. 18. Marilyn is the President and Founder of KidsAre1st, a non-profit organization dedicated to protect children and educate families through child ID events and car seat safety checks. Senator Price stopped their our booth while they were doing child ID and teen driver impairment demonstrations. For more information

Congratulations to SHero Jackie Dupont Walker (SHero 2009) recipient of THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCACY AWARD. Jackie Dupont Walker, Consultant / Director of the Social Action Commission of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, was the recipient of THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS ADVOCACY AWARD. The award was presented to Jackie on Friday, January 7, 2011 by Church Women United in recognition of her Tireless, Unselfish, and Magnanimous Efforts in "living and making the challenge" of promoting human rights.

It is with great sadness that we pass along the message of the passing of Jean Williams (SHero 2007). Jean passed away in January 2011. She was a community activist, a true friend and embodied the definition of being a SHero. This picture is of her at one of Senator Price's townhalls when he was in the State Assembly with Inglewood Councilman Eloy Morales.

For Your Information:

Keep Your Home California

New State Law Allows for Taxpayers to Contribute to the Arts on their State Tax Form

Last year Senator Curren Price, longtime supporter of the arts, authored SB 1076 legislation that allows taxpayers to make voluntary contributions to the Arts Council on their state personal income tax return.

"This bill is one small but essential step in ensuring adequate funding for the Arts," said Senator Price. "It will provide an additional source of funding that is sorely needed for the Arts in California.

"SB 1076 gives California an opportunity to voluntarily fund the Arts without a fiscal impact to our general fund, "said Senator Price.

State block grant funding, which was once given directly to schools for Arts education has been suspended. As a result, California ranks 50th in the nation in the funding of arts education, said Senator Price. SB 1076 can potentially off –set past reduction in funding.

"Quality art education is vital to the development and enhancement of the talent and promise of student performers in California, said Senator Price.

"For those students that are fortunate enough to take part in such programs they learn the art of creative endeavors while enhancing their confidence, self-esteem and appreciation of the state's cultural diversity.

"Equally important," said Senator Price. "Arts programs not only provide value to our community, but also provide jobs.

"An investment in the Arts is an investment to our state. Arts are essential for the cultural, educational, social and economic development of California. "

Click here for more information on the California Arts Council

Federal Tax Holiday Continues

There is good news from Washington for the
average worker. In late December, Congress
extended the 2010 tax cuts for 2011, reducing the amount of tax and social security withholding from paychecks. The Sacramento Bee reports the savings for the average employee making $50,000 will be an additional $83 a month or $996 per year.

These changes will be made automatically by employers and must be in effect by January 31, 2011. Employees should check their deductions to see if they reflect the new changes. If employers are unable to implement these changes by the deadline, an extension to March 31 can be sought.

There is also free online help from the IRS to file your taxes. The IRS is offering freefile, a free income tax preparation and electronic filing program with online assistance to file 2010 tax returns. Freefile can also assist in filing a 2010 extension and tracking refunds. Additional information can be found on the IRS website.

Cash for College Deadline: March 2, 2011

In light of increasing fee and tuition costs, many California families are in search of additional assistance to pay for college. The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) administers the Cal Grant program to do just that.

The Cash for College program offers free workshops for students and parents to help with the process of filing financial aid applications. The March 2 application deadline is quickly approaching.Cal Grants can be used to attend a California community college, CSU, UC, private college, or qualifying career tech or vocational school. The good news? Cal Grants do not need to be paid back and can be used for tuition, books, and even room and board. High school seniors who attend the workshops will have an opportunity to qualify for an additional $1,000 scholarship.

The CSAC website has information and downloadable application forms. Workshop attendees are encouraged to download the Free Application for Federal Student Aid and the Cal Grant Grade Point Average Verification form and bring both to the workshop.

National Park Service Continues Fee-Free Days in 2011

As California faces additional cuts in hours and the closing of more state parks, the federal government will continue to offer fee-free admissionto our national parks in 2011.

To plan a visit, see the National Park Service website for special events at parks around the country.

The fee free days to over 100 National Parks are:

April 16-24 - National Park Week
June 21 - First Day of Summer
September 24 - Public Lands Day
November 11-13 - Veterans Day Weekend

Plugging in to Electric Car Rebate Program

Consumers interested in the state's $5,000
electric vehicle rebate may want to speed up their
purchase. As manufacturers release new models for 2011, it is predicted that the $8 million California Air Resources Board rebate program may expend its money by mid-2011. Additional information about the rebate program's popularity was covered by the Los Angeles Times.

The Air Resources Board began the program in March 2010. The rebate is available for light duty vehicles that are battery electric, plug-in electric or fuel cell vehicles. Certain heavy-duty vehicles are eligible for up to $20,000.

In addition to state incentives, the federal government is offering tax credits for electric vehicles purchased in 2011. The rebate may also apply to certain lease vehicles. Consumer advocates warn that these incentives will not reduce the vehicle's sales tax, which applies to the full purchase price before incentives. However, in the long term, operation and maintenance cost savings, as well as environmental benefits, make electric cars an attractive option for many buyers.

At Your Service

Senator Curren Price with his Capitol and District office staff on the Senate Floor.

My capitol and district office is dedicated to helping my constituents. If you need help filling out government forms, information on legislation, or assistance in dealing with state agencies, please contact my district office at 213-745-6656 or my capitol office at 916-651-4026 feel free to stop by or click here to submit an on-line form that goes directly to my district office. My office is here to serve you.