Newly elected State Senator Laura Richardson blasts out of the gate in Sacramento proving experience makes a difference
SACRAMENTO, California – January 6, 2025 – State Senator Laura Richardson, fresh off her historic November 2024 election victory as the first woman of color to represent the 35th Senate District, has been named Assistant Majority Whip of the California Senate. This prestigious position involves monitoring all new legislation and securing votes. This appointment makes Richardson the only African American woman in a leadership role within the state senate in the 2025 session and marks a significant milestone in the state's political landscape, highlighting her dedication and commitment to public service.
“I am honored to have been selected to serve in a leadership role and to be a member of committees essential to the needs of all residents of the state,” said Senator Richardson. “I look forward to robust debates on the issues and helping to advance social, health, transportation, and financial matters, ensuring a better quality of life for all Californians.”
Senator Richardson will serve on several key committees, including the influential Appropriations Committee, which reviews all bills to determine funding and state budget impacts, and the Banking and Financial Institutions Committee, which has the authority to investigate and study any proposed bills relating to financial institutions, lending, and corporations.
“I look forward to bringing my years of legislative experience to each of these vital committees and ensuring the voices and concerns of everyday Californians are reflected in each policy discussion,” added Senator Richardson.
In addition to her leadership role, Senator Richardson will serve on the Transportation Committee, which impacts ports, public services including rail, EV vehicles, and bus lines, and other commercial and public transport concerns. Other committees include the Health Committee, the Special Session Budget and Fiscal Review Committee, and the Governmental Organization Committee, which oversees horse racing, public gaming, alcoholic beverages, the management of public safety emergencies and disaster response, state government organizations, and the use of state-controlled lands and buildings, along with state contracts.
Furthermore, Senator Richardson has been selected to chair the Senate’s Budget Subcommittee #5, overseeing state funding for labor matters, transportation development, along with corrections facilities, public safety issues, and judicial functions. The announcement was made by Senate President Pro Tempore Mike McGuire on January 3, 2025, as the legislature begins its new session.
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ABOUT STATE SENATOR LAURA RICHARDSON
Before serving in the State Senate, Richardson made history by being the first to be elected and serve on all three levels of government within a 12-month span. She began her journey at the local level as a member of the Long Beach City Council, then advanced to the state level as a member of the State Assembly, and finally reached the federal level as a member of the U.S. Congress. This remarkable achievement underscores her dedication, versatility, and commitment to public service.
She currently represents the 35th Senate District, which includes the communities of Athens, Carson, Compton, Del Aire, East Rancho Dominguez, Gardena, Harbor City, Harbor Gateway, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lawndale, Lennox, San Pedro, Watts, Willowbrook, and Wilmington.