Steve Bennett. Courtesy photo.
SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Sept. 22 to establish a state-wide program for counties to create farmworker resource centers. Jointly authored by Assemblymembers Steve Bennett and Robert Rivas, and State Sen. Monique Limón, the bill establishes a grant program, funded in the 2021-2022 Budget, which allows counties to apply for funds to establish centers similar to the one created by Ventura County in 2017.
“I appreciate the work and support of my colleagues on this important issue, and I’m gratified by the Governor’s support.” Said Assemblymember Bennett, “The agriculture industry and the State of California need farmworkers who feel valued respected and supported; and this program will enable counties to access funding to support these critical members of our agricultural community.”
Monique Limón. Courtesy photo.
Sen. Limón noted, “I am pleased to join Assemblymember Bennett on this measure to provide farmworkers throughout the state access to a much-needed system of information and resources. Our farmworker community deserves access to trusted sources to help them navigate systems.”
“Farmworkers face a plethora of resource barriers, ranging from cultural to language to different immigration statuses, which may prevent them from accessing much-needed government assistance and information,” said Assemblymember Robert Rivas, who serves as Chair of the Assembly Agriculture Committee.
Robert Rivas. Courtesy photo.
“And with COVID-19, it is more important than ever that farmworkers know what resources are available to them, which can potentially save their lives. AB 941 will help establish trusted county resource centers for farmworkers and will greatly help this historically underserved population responsible for feeding our state,” Rivas said.
AB 941 is based on a successful Ventura County program that has served over 1,400 farmworkers and their families since opening their doors.