Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we move further into 2026, I’m back in Sacramento while staying closely connected to the work happening here at home in the Antelope Valley and Victor Valley. The State Legislature is in full swing, and my team and I are finalizing our bill package for the year introducing legislation focused on economic opportunity, public safety, workforce development, and protecting working families.
At the same time, we continue expanding our presence in the district. I’m pleased to share that our district office has officially relocated from Adelanto to Victorville, allowing us to better serve residents across the High Desert. This transition reflects our commitment to accessibility, responsiveness, and making sure constituents can easily connect with our office for state services and support.
Whether in Sacramento or here at home, my focus remains clear: delivering meaningful resources to Assembly District 39 and ensuring our region has a strong and respected voice at the Capitol. I’m excited for the work ahead and look forward to continuing to bring investment, opportunity, and results back to our communities.
Thank you for staying engaged, and I wish you and your family a productive and successful start to the year.
As we finalize our 2026 bill package, our office remains focused on practical, results-driven solutions that address the needs of Assembly District 39 and communities across California. From protecting our High Desert neighborhoods to modernizing housing processes and strengthening workforce pathways, we are committed to delivering meaningful policy this year.
Bill Spotlight: AB 2310 – The Illicit Commercial Dumping Enforcement Act
I’m proud to highlight AB 2310, introduced by our Assembly Fellow Jalen Wise, which strengthens enforcement against large-scale and repeat illegal dumping operations.
Illegal dumping has become a persistent and growing problem in the Antelope Valley — particularly in Lancaster, Palmdale, and surrounding communities. These operations create serious public health and fire hazards, degrade neighborhoods, and impose costly cleanup burdens on local government and taxpayers.
AB 2310 strengthens California’s enforcement framework by:
- Allowing misdemeanor charges after repeated dumping violations
- Authorizing enforcement action before materials are dumped
- Holding property owners accountable if they knowingly allow illegal dumping
- Expanding agency authority to declare dumped sites public health or fire hazards
- Increasing penalties for large-scale commercial dumping schemes
Sponsored by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, this legislation directly responds to concerns raised by our High Desert communities and provides stronger tools to protect our environment and public safety.
We are incredibly proud of our Assembly Fellow, Jalen Wise, on the introduction of his first bill and his commitment to advancing meaningful solutions for Assembly District 39.
AB 1738 – Expanding Remote Virtual Inspections
AB 1738 addresses California’s housing shortage and permit backlogs by requiring local jurisdictions to offer Remote Virtual Inspections (RVI) for simple home renovation projects on single-family homes and duplexes.
Staffing shortages in building departments have created delays that slow down home improvements, ADUs, and critical housing projects. Remote inspections — conducted through photos or live video — reduce wait times, eliminate unnecessary travel, and allow inspectors to focus on more complex construction projects.
Under AB 1738, jurisdictions would be required to offer remote inspections upon request for projects such as:
- Water heaters
- HVAC systems
- Re-roofs
- Minor electrical and plumbing work
- Solar and battery systems
- ADUs and Junior ADUs
- Wildfire home hardening improvements
The bill also ensures accountability through audit processes and annual reporting requirements.
By modernizing inspections, AB 1738 helps reduce delays, lower costs for families, and accelerate housing production.
AB 1694 – Stabilizing Career Technical Education Funding
AB 1694 strengthens California’s workforce pipeline by creating more stable funding for the Career Technical Education Incentive Grant (CTEIG) program.
Career Technical Education prepares students with hands-on skills, industry certifications, and direct pathways to employment and higher education. However, unpredictable year-to-year funding makes it difficult for schools to sustain high-quality programs and partnerships.
AB 1694 would:
- Provide automatic four-year renewals for eligible school districts
- Maintain funding opportunities for new applicants
- Support long-term workforce and education partnerships
This legislation aligns with California’s Master Plan for Career Education and supports economic mobility, workforce readiness, and long-term stability for students and employers alike.
Stay tuned for our March newsletter, where we will highlight our full 2026 legislative package and share additional details on the legislation, we’re advancing on behalf of Assembly District 39.
As Vice-Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus, I’m proud to highlight two important developments this week — a major legal victory protecting our communities and a celebration of leadership strengthening California’s global economy.
Federal Court Upholds SB 805 – The “No Vigilantes Act”
The California Latino Legislative Caucus applauds the federal court ruling upholding SB 805 (Perez), the No Vigilantes Act, which ensures that federal immigration agents must clearly identify themselves and prevents private individuals from engaging in vigilante-style enforcement actions.
This ruling is a critical step in protecting public safety, defending civil rights, and holding enforcement authorities accountable. While this is an important victory, the Caucus remains committed to ensuring ongoing accountability and transparency in immigration enforcement.
Read the full press release here: California Latino Legislative Caucus Applauds Ruling to Uphold CA’s Clear Identification Requirements for Federal Immigration Agents.
Celebrating Ports Day & Leadership at the Port of Long Beach
The Latino Legislative Caucus and the AAPI Legislative Caucus also celebrated Ports Day and the appointment of Dr. Noel Hacegaba, CEO of the Port of Long Beach, as the new President of the California Association of Port Authorities.
During his 15-year career at the Port, Dr. Hacegaba has distinguished himself as an industry leader and international expert in global trade, port operations, workforce development, and economic development initiatives.
California’s ports are critical engines of economic growth, job creation, and international commerce. The Latino Caucus looks forward to working with Dr. Hacegaba to ensure the continued success of the Port of Long Beach and California’s 11 public ports.
Woman of the Year: Thank You for Your Nominations!
Thank you to everyone who submitted nominations for our 2026 Woman of the Year. We are proud to share that we received more than 50 nominations recognizing extraordinary women from across Assembly District 39.
From educators and small business owners to nonprofit leaders and community advocates, the inspiring women in our district continue to make a lasting impact in the Antelope Valley and High Desert. The overwhelming response reflects the strength, leadership, and dedication of women throughout our communities.
To every woman who was nominated — thank you for your service and the difference you make each and every day in the district. Your work and dedication are appreciated.
Our 2026 Woman of the Year will be announced in our March newsletter, and we look forward to celebrating this remarkable honoree with all of you.
Nominate a Small Business of the Month!
Do you know a small business in the Antelope Valley or Victor Valley that deserves recognition? Our office is excited to highlight local businesses making a difference in our communities as part of our Small Business of the Month program!
We encourage residents to shop small and support the hardworking entrepreneurs who help keep our local economy strong.
If you’d like to nominate a business, please contact one of our offices for more information:
- Palmdale Office: 📞 (661) 266-3908
- Victorville Office: 📞 (760) 530-0139
We’re thrilled to celebrate the dedication, creativity, and impact of small business owners across AD 39!
We want to address some confusion circulating about AB 1421 and provide clear facts to minimize misinformation.
AB 1421 directs the state to study alternative ways to fund California’s roads and transportation system, including the potential use of a mileage-based fee. This study is strictly for research and evaluation — it does not create a new tax or charge.
The purpose of the study is to ensure California can maintain safe roads, bridges, and highways for all drivers while exploring sustainable and fair funding solutions for the future. Any changes would require separate legislation and public input before moving forward.
We strongly encourage everyone to educate themselves on the study and rely on official information before discussing or sharing details. Staying informed helps our communities focus on facts, not rumors.
For more information, please contact our offices:
- Palmdale Office: 📞 (661) 266-3908
- Victorville Office: 📞 (760) 530-0139
Palmdale School District 8th Annual Gala
It was a pleasure attending the Palmdale School District’s 8th Annual Gala with my wife and celebrating the strength of our community. We love being part of events that support our students, families, and local schools.
- For scheduling or to invite the Assemblymember to an upcoming event, please contact scheduler, Wade Alexander – 📧 Wade.Alexander@asm.ca.gov
Grand Opening: Gonzalez Meat Market
I was honored to attend the grand opening of the 4th Gonzalez Meat Market.
Family-owned, community-driven, and continuing to grow strong, the Gonzalez family is a shining example of the hard work and dedication of local businesses in our district.
Remember, shopping small supports our local economy and helps businesses like the Gonzalez Meat Market thrive. Congratulations to the Gonzalez family on this exciting milestone! 🎉
US 395 Widening Phase 2 – Groundbreaking Ceremony
Team Carrillo attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Phase 2 of the US 395 Freight Mobility and Safety Project between Victorville and Hesperia. This $41.85 million project will widen seven miles of Highway 395, adding lanes, medians, shoulders, and safety improvements, with full construction expected through winter 2029.
The widening will help reduce traffic congestion, improve the flow of goods movement, and enhance safety for commuters, truckers, and residents. Brush clearing and site preparation began in early 2026, with grading, utility relocations, and paving to follow.
Latest Updates:
- Phase 2 covers 7 miles from SR‑18/Palmdale Road to I‑15 in Hesperia/Oak Hills.
- US 395 carries roughly 30,000 vehicles daily (17% trucks).
- Improvements include additional lanes, raised medians, wider shoulders, and pedestrian/bicycle features where feasible.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed and follow updates from SBCTA and Caltrans for lane closures, detours, and public outreach opportunities.
Helpful Resources for Our Community
My district offices are here to connect you with state services and programs to make life a little easier. We’ve updated our website with new information and will continue adding more resources for you.
Some highlights include:
- CalKids – Support and services for children and families
- State Agencies & Departments – Access programs and services across California
- Know Your Rights – Guidance on legal protections and resources
- Veterans Resources (CalVet) – Benefits, support, and programs for our veterans
Check our website often as we continue to expand these resources for all residents of AD 39!