CALIFORNIA — As the state legislature resumed last week, Assemblymember Robert Rivas is reminding the public to participate in his office’s third annual “There Ought to be a Law” Program.
First introduced in December 2019, the program invites constituents of the 30th Assembly District to submit state policy proposals for the upcoming 2022 legislative session. Deadline to submit a policy proposal is Friday, Jan. 14.
“Some of the best, most effective policy ideas originate not in Sacramento, but from our community,” Rivas said. “Listening to our constituents produces better solutions for our communities and California as a whole.”
Participants are encouraged to be creative and thoughtful in their proposals. In the past, policy submissions have ranged from local community improvements to statewide initiatives addressing a variety of issues.
Rivas has introduced two policy proposals submitted through the previous years’ programs: AB 3153 (2020; Sustainable Transit Zoning) and AB 1144 (2021; Cottage Food Operations). AB 1144 was signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom in September.
“Residents can make a significant difference in their communities through this program,” said Gilroy Councilmember Zach Hilton, who originally submitted the idea behind AB 3153 in 2020. “I am excited to see what ideas are submitted this year.”
“‘There Ought to be a Law’ is an opportunity to brainstorm a better community,” explained Susanne McBride, who proposed the idea behind AB 1144 in 2021. “Constituents can make their dreams a reality.”
Constituents wishing to participate in the program can go here on Rivas’ website.
Rivas (D-Salinas) represents California’s 30th Assembly District, which includes all or portions of the cities and towns of Aromas, Big Sur, Chualar, Gilroy, Greenfield, Gonzales, Hollister, King City, Morgan Hill, Salinas, San Martin, San Juan Bautista, Soledad, Spreckels and Watsonville.
