We thought it would be over, but it seems as though there might be light at the end of the tunnel. Tomorrow, September 26th, from 9 PM to Monday, September 29th, at 5 AM, Caltrans will close all lanes of northbound I-5 from I-8 to Mission Bay Drive to conduct roadwork.
Please be sure to plan ahead and drive safely. For real-time traffic information, visit the Caltrans QuickMap. For alternative routes this weekend, please visit their website.
Cheers,
Assemblymember Tasha Boerner
Assemblymember, 77th District
P.S. My office is available every day to talk with you about your concerns or help connect you with resources. You can reach us at (858) 481-7704 or Assemblymember.Boerner@assembly.ca.gov.
Legislation on the Governor's Desk
It's been about a week and a half since we wrapped up the first year of the two-year legislative session! I'm proud to see these bills are currently on the Governor's desk awaiting his signature. I cannot wait to share with you additional updates!
| CSG WEST & CLIMATE WEEK HIGHLIGHTS |
Council of State Governments West
I recently joined the Council of State Governments West (CSG West) in Jackson, Wyoming, to engage with policymakers from other states to learn how they are addressing critical issues facing our state legislatures. This year, conversations centered on energy, healthcare, wildfire recovery, and conservation.
I want to thank the 2025 Wyoming Host Committee Members for showing my colleagues and me around. I'm excited to use this knowledge as I prepare for the next legislative session.
My Colleagues & I Attended Climate Week
Climate Week is in full swing in New York City! My colleagues and I are joining leaders, innovators, and advocates to advance bold climate solutions. We are also proud to share with others what California is doing to combat climate change.
Pictured left to right: Senator Lena A. Gonzalez, Senator Caroline Menjivar, Assemblymember Celeste Rodriguez, Assemblymember Diane Papan, Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, and Assemblymember Dawn Addis.
Climate Week Continued
It's Climate Week 2025! So far, I have participated in a panel about streamlining and heard from experts on building climate resiliency. From cutting carbon emissions to expanding sustainable energy, the conversations here are focused on real solutions that will move us forward.
I am proud that my colleagues and I are sharing the projects California is working on with leaders from across the globe. I'm excited to bring these insights back home as we continue fighting for a cleaner, healthier future.
Chats About Streamlining
From Red Tape to Green Light:
At Climate Week NYC, I joined a panel on how states are working to speed up clean energy projects. While California has taken steps to reduce barriers, I believe we must be thoughtful. Cutting "red tape" can't come at the cost of our environment or vulnerable families.
Streamlining should mean smarter, more equitable processes — not shortcuts that leave people behind. Our path to climate resiliency must balance urgency with responsibility.
Tour of Near Space Labs
At Climate Week NYC, I toured Near Space Labs a company using a zero-emission way to capture aerial images.
This innovation helps us survey areas impacted by wildfires, floods, and other disasters, giving communities the tools they need to recover and build resiliency.
I also had the chance to connect with a few familiar faces!
Direct Support Professionals Empowerment Awards
The California Disability Services Association gathered in Carlsbad for a three-day conference with over 100 organizations dedicated to supporting Californians with disabilities.
Team Tasha was proud to celebrate Direct Support Professionals—the heart of this work — whose initiative, adaptability, and resilience ensure outstanding care every day.
Recognizing Melissa Villagomez
For Latino Heritage Month, I am honored to recognize Melissa Villagomez from La Jolla.
A passionate advocate for foster youth, Melissa uses her voice to raise awareness about the challenges they face. Having grown up in foster care herself, her message is deeply personal — and powerful.
Recently, she delivered a moving TEDxSanDiego Women talk, "Breaking the Cycle of Foster Care Through Caring Communities," reminding us of the transformative power of compassion and community.
Thank you, Melissa, for your dedication to creating supportive environments that uplift vulnerable youth and inspire change for future generations.
Watch her Tedx Talk here.
10/1 - Career Tech Pathways Webinar
On Wednesday, October 1st, from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m., join Team Tasha for the Career Tech Pathways Webinar. Learn about local educational programs, apprenticeship opportunities, and valuable insights into industry trends. Experts from the education sector, state agencies, and industry professionals will be available to answer any questions you may have. Be sure to RSVP for a Zoom link!
10/3 - Community Coffee at San Diego City College
Join me for a cup of coffee and chat with me about the work I am doing in Sacramento! On Friday, October 3rd, from 11 AM – 12 PM, I will be at San Diego City College in Room MS 140 to connect with you and answer any questions you may have. This event is completely free. RSVPs are not necessary, but highly appreciated!
10/10 - Select Committee Hearing in Coronado
On Friday, October 10th, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, I will be hosting an Assembly Select Committee on Sea Level Rise & the California Economy hearing at the Coronado Public Library! This hearing will focus on infrastructure, pollution, and climate resilience. Join for an informative discussion on California's risks and efforts to mitigate sea level rise. I hope to see you there! RSVP here.
10/11 - Environmental Hero Awards
Please join me for my 2025 Environmental Hero Awards on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 10 AM at Del Mar City Hall. This special event celebrates individuals who make positive impacts to the environment and were nominated by the community. This event is free and open to the public. RSVP recommended.
Age-Friendly Encinitas
The City of Encinitas is developing the Age-Friendly Encinitas Plan for people of all ages and abilities, and wants to hear from you. Join the City of Encinitas for a "Listening and Learning" session led by the San Diego State University Center. There are four different sessions taking place from September 30th through October 21st. You can RSVP here.
Earthquake Brace & Bolt Program
NOW THROUGH OCTOBER 1ST, homeowners across more than 1,100 eligible zip codes can apply for grants of up to $3,000 to complete a seismic retrofit. For the first time, the program is expanding eligibility to include rentals!
Additional support is also available for households earning less than $89,040 a year, with up to $7,000 in supplemental grants to cover most or even all retrofit costs. You can visit the Earthquake Brace and Bolt Program here. To determine if your zip code is eligible, check here.
California Assist Mortgage Fund
If your home was destroyed or damaged by last year's San Diego floods, the new CalAssist Mortgage Fund may provide you with some relief. This state-funded program covers up to three months of mortgage payments with a maximum of $20,000 – and the funds never have to be repaid. Funds are limited, so don't wait! Visit the CalAssist Mortgage Fund website to learn more and apply.
CalKIDS - Children's College Savings Program
It is back-to-school season, and it is important to think about how you are saving for your child's future! CalKIDS was created to provide Californian children greater access to higher education institutions. Newborns and eligible low-income public school students may receive up to $1,500 in a CalKIDS account. This can help jumpstart your child's savings for college and career training!
Know Your Rights
I understand that many of us are feeling angry in the face of what is happening in our local communities and across the country. Individuals are being taken from the streets without due process, and people are living in fear every day. In these moments, it is essential to know your rights. The California Immigrant Guide offers various resources in multiple languages to assist you or those you know. I know these are unprecedented times, and we will get through this.
Outdoors for All Initiative
California has three passes available to families to access our state's parks. Going outdoors could not be easier! Let's unplug from our digital devices and enjoy some fresh air. For more Information on the California State Parks' Passes, visit the website.
Mental Health Apps for Families
There are two free mental health apps available to all children, youth, young adults, and families in California. BrightLife Kids and Soluna are two free apps to help families raise happy, healthy young minds. BrightLife Kids is for families whose children are 0-12 years old, and Soluna is for teens and young adults between ages 13-25. For more information on these resources, please visit the CalHOPE website.
Metrolink Discount for EBT Cardholders
NEW DISCOUNT: California EBT cardholders qualify for 50% off any Metrolink ticket or pass. Travel to school, work and anywhere else you need to be for less when you take the train.
Learn more on the Metrolink website.
CA Department of Consumer Affairs Licensed Business Search Tool
Look for the license! Don't jeopardize your safety, money, or peace of mind - use DCA's free online search tool to double-check.
Rebates Available for Water-Saving Upgrades
California residents and business owners can do their part to help the state conserve water by switching to more water-efficient appliances, and there are many rebates available to help with these upgrades.
From washers, toilets, and sprinkler systems to HVAC systems, commercial appliances, and more, there's probably a rebate out there you could take advantage of.
If you don't need to replace any appliances right now, you can help out by replacing turf and other retrofitting projects - click the link below to learn more about rebates and ways you can be more water wise.
