California Lawmakers Advance Key Bills on Veterans and Student Protections
As the California legislative session approaches its conclusion, key bills related to veterans and student protections are making significant strides. With September 12, 2023 marking the final day for the state Assembly and Senate to pass legislation, several proposals have recently gained approval, reflecting the priorities of state lawmakers.
Support for Veterans’ Mental Health
One pivotal piece of legislation focuses on the mental health of women veterans. Sponsored by Assemblymember Tri Ta, a Republican from Westminster, the bill aims to explore the factors contributing to mental health challenges among female veterans in California. The California Senate approved the measure, which mandates the California Department of Veterans Affairs to submit a report detailing the study’s findings by June 30, 2029.
This initiative is driven by alarming statistics from a 2011 California Women Veterans study, which revealed that female veterans utilize state benefits at a lower rate compared to their male counterparts. “Female veterans die by suicide at a disproportionately high rate. This is a tragedy, and our society should not and cannot stand for it,” Ta stated. The bill has garnered substantial bipartisan support, highlighting a collective commitment to improving care for female veterans.
In addition to this legislation, Ta introduced another bill ensuring that dependents of active-duty military members stationed outside California can still qualify for Cal Grants and the Middle-Class Scholarship Program. This bill also successfully passed through the Senate last week.
Advancements in Cemetery and Financial Oversight
Another crucial development involves the establishment of a veterans cemetery in Anaheim Hills’ Gypsum Canyon. Assemblymember Sharon Quirk-Silva, a Democrat from Fullerton, introduced the bill, which received unanimous support. The legislation exempts the cemetery project from further review under California’s environmental protection law, known as CEQA.
“After years of advocating for the Southern California Veterans Cemetery, AB 571 is the crucial tool we need to deliver on a promise we owe to our veterans and their families,” Quirk-Silva expressed. She emphasized the importance of providing a dignified resting place for those who have served the country, indicating that delays are no longer acceptable.
On the financial front, Senator Steven Choi from Irvine is pushing for a bill aimed at enhancing transparency in local finance. This legislation proposes imposing fines of up to $5,000 on local finance officers who fail to submit annual reports within ten months of the fiscal year’s end. Choi’s office stated that timely financial audits are essential for responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, yet some municipalities have not completed audits for the fiscal year ending in June 2022. This bill has also received broad support across party lines.
Student Protections Against Drug-Related Emergencies
Lastly, Assemblymember Matt Haney, a Democrat from San Francisco, has introduced a bill designed to protect students who seek help during drug-related emergencies. This legislation, known as AB 602, provides students with limited immunity from disciplinary actions when they call 911 for assistance during an overdose.
Haney’s initiative addresses concerns that existing college policies may deter students from seeking help, as they risk suspension or expulsion for being near drugs. “No student should have to choose between saving a life and continuing their education,” Haney remarked. The bill has successfully passed through the legislature and is awaiting the governor’s decision.
As the legislative session comes to a close, these bills represent a critical focus on supporting California’s veterans and safeguarding student welfare, reflecting the ongoing commitment of lawmakers to address pressing societal issues.
