Dear Friend,
I hope you're enjoying the summer and finding time to spend with family and friends.
The past several months have been busy and productive as I've worked to deliver results for the people of San Francisco and San Mateo County. From passing a balanced state budget to advancing legislation that improves public safety, expands access to health care, lowers costs for families, increases housing opportunities, strengthens consumer protections, and safeguards reproductive freedom, I've remained focused on the priorities that matter most to our communities.
I'm proud to share that 20 of my bills have advanced to the State Senate, where they will continue moving through the legislative process. I also successfully secured $69 million in this year's state budget to support priorities that will make a meaningful difference for our neighborhoods and communities across California.
At the links below, you'll find updates on my legislative work, district events, budget achievements, and resources available to you and your family.
As always, my office is here to serve you. Whether you have questions, concerns, or need assistance with any state-related services, please do not hesitate to reach out at Assemblymember.Stefani@Assembly.ca.gov or call (415) 557-2312.
Sincerely,
Catherine Stefani
Assemblymember, 19th District
Policy & Legislation
2026 Bill Package Update
$69 Million in State Budget Wins for Health & Public Safety
Committee Assignments
In the Community
San Francisco Pride Parade
Happy Pride, San Francisco!
Each year, I'm proud to join the LGBTQ+ community for one of the best Pride celebrations in the world. As your Assemblymember, I remain committed to advancing legislation that supports our LGBTQ+ neighbors and invests in their safety, dignity, and well-being.
San Francisco Dragon Boat Festival
I had a wonderful time at the San Francisco Dragon Boat Festival!
The Dragon Boat Festival brings together families, neighbors, teammates, and visitors from all backgrounds to celebrate one of the many traditions that make our city so vibrant. It’s also an opportunity to support local businesses, artists, and vendors who contribute so much to our neighborhoods.
Thank you to the California Dragon Boat Association, Community Youth Center, and the Office of Economic & Workforce Development for making this celebration possible!
National Gun Violence Awareness Day
On National Gun Violence Awareness Day in June, we gathered on the steps of San Francisco City Hall to honor the lives lost to gun violence and recommit ourselves to the fight for safer communities.
Each year, we observe this day in memory of Hadiya Pendleton, whose life was stolen by gun violence at just 15 years old. Just days before her death, Hadiya had the honor of performing at President Obama’s inauguration, and it remains a horrific reminder of the bright future that was taken far too soon. More than a decade later, we are still fighting this same fight.
Thank you to Moms Demand Action, Everytown for Gun Safety, Students Demand Action, the Brady Campaign, and all the advocates, survivors, and community leaders who continue to lead this movement with courage and conviction.
Together, we will keep fighting until every Californian can live safely and free from gun violence.
Italian National Day - Italian Flag Raising in San Francisco
On June 2, we raised the Italian flag at San Francisco City Hall in celebration of Italian National Day!
Thank you to Mayor Daniel Lurie’s office for organizing such a wonderful event for our city’s Italian American community. It is always great to see Consul General Massimo Carnelos, members of the Italian Caucus, along with so many dear friends and fellow Italian cousins!
National Council of Jewish Women San Francisco — Achievement in Policy Award
I was humbled to receive the Achievement in Policy Award from the National Council of Jewish Women San Francisco (NCJWSF), whose advocacy has improved countless lives over the past 125 years. Today, NCJWSF remains a powerful force for justice and opportunity for those who need it most.
I’m especially grateful for our partnership in the fight against human trafficking and domestic violence. Together, we’re working to protect survivors and advance policies that uphold the dignity of every person.
Jewish American Heritage Month
In May, we gathered at San Francisco City Hall to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month. Thank you to Mayor Daniel Lurie for bringing our community together for such a special occasion.
California is home to vibrant Jewish communities with deep roots and rich traditions. This month, we celebrate the countless contributions Jewish Americans have made to our state and honor the enduring impact they continue to have on California's history, culture, and future.
3rd Annual Pawz for Pierce’s Playaz
I joined Coach Steve Kerr, Pierce’s Pledge, and United Playaz for the 3rd Annual Pawz for Pierce’s Playaz dog show and competition right in the heart of the city!
I’m proud to have worked alongside Pierce’s Pledge and United Playaz for years to pass common-sense gun safety legislation and support initiatives like United Playaz’ gun buybacks, helping get thousands of guns off our streets.
This year, I’m working alongside Pierce’s Pledge to pass legislation for a statewide safe storage program for firearms. I’m determined to see this bill signed into law later this year.
Equality California Gala
I was honored to present my dear friend, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman, with the Vanguard Leadership Award at the Equality California Gala!
When Rafael Mandelman was elected by his colleagues to serve as President of the Board of Supervisors, he became the first LGBTQ+ person to hold that role in more than 20 years. From preserving the history of the Castro District to expanding health care access for the LGBTQ+ community, President Mandelman has been a tireless champion for San Francisco and is truly a vanguard for equality and inclusion.
As we continue to witness attacks on the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ people from the current federal administration, Equality California's work is more important than ever. Thank you, Equality California, for your unwavering commitment to advancing equality, protecting civil rights, and fighting for dignity for all.
Shalom Bayit’s Creating Hope Gala
I was deeply honored to stand with Shalom Bayit and the domestic violence prevention community in support of victims and survivors at their annual Creating Hope Gala.
This issue is deeply personal to me and my family. Behind every statistic is a person waiting for safety, support, and hope, and organizations like Shalom Bayit provide exactly that for so many survivors and their families.
Thank you to everyone at Shalom Bayit for your unwavering commitment to speaking out, supporting survivors, and working every day to ensure that no one has to face domestic violence alone.
Sacramento Updates
Non-Profit of the Year: Breast Cancer Prevention Partners
I had the honor of recognizing Breast Cancer Prevention Partners as the Assembly District 19 Non-profit of the Year!
Based in San Francisco, Breast Cancer Prevention Partners is leading lifesaving work to prevent breast cancer by advancing research, education, and policies that protect public health and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.
This year, I’m especially grateful for their partnership in advancing legislation to ban toxic chemicals like bisphenols in paper receipts, which have been linked to reproductive harm, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Thank you to the entire team at Breast Cancer Prevention Partners for your advocacy and commitment to healthier neighborhoods for all.
Rallying For Reproductive Freedom
I joined reproductive freedom advocates and legislative colleagues to highlight three priority bills that will strengthen access to reproductive health care across California.
Sponsored by Reproductive Freedom for All, I was proud to author AB 2540, the Community College Student Right to Access Act, which will close critical gaps in access to reproductive care for community college students by expanding access to medication abortion services on campus.
Alongside AB 1973 by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains and AB 54 by Assemblymember Maggy Krell, these bills represent California's continued commitment to protecting and expanding reproductive freedom. I'm thrilled that all three measures have advanced to the State Senate for consideration.
Resolution: National Gun Violence Awareness Day
On the morning of June 4, advocates, legislators, and survivors gathered on the steps of the State Capitol ahead of National Gun Violence Awareness Day. We came together with one clear message: enough is enough. We've had enough of the violence tearing apart our neighborhoods and taking the lives of our loved ones.
Later that day, I presented a resolution on the Assembly floor recognizing June 5 as National Gun Violence Awareness Day and honoring the dedicated advocates of Moms Demand Action and Everytown for Gun Safety.
Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking
Thrilled to join forces with Mira Sorvino and Kay Buck, CEO of the Coalition to Abolish Slavery & Trafficking, as they advocated for funding for California's Human Trafficking Victim Assistance Program.
I'm proud to have supported my colleague Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez's request to secure critical funding for human trafficking victim services in this year's state budget.
Community Resources
California’s Unclaimed Property Law requires financial institutions, insurance companies, corporations, businesses, and certain other entities to report and submit their customers’ property to the State Controller’s Office when there has been no activity for a period of time (generally three years). Common types of unclaimed property include but are not limited to: bank accounts, stocks, uncashed checks, insurance benefits, wages, and safe deposit box contents. Property does not include real estate.
The Judicial Council of California offers a free online tool called MyCitations that helps people with eligible traffic tickets request a reduced fine, payment plan, additional time to pay, or community service based on ability to pay. The tool is available in all 58 counties and helps reduce the need for in-person court appearances.
The California HOPE for Children Trust Account Program provides eligible youth with a $3,000 trust account, along with financial empowerment resources, to support their transition into adulthood. Administered by the California State Treasurer Fiona Ma’s Office, the program is available to qualifying foster youth who have been in foster care for 18 months or more, as well as bereaved youth who lost a parent, legal guardian, or Indian custodian due to COVID-19.
The California Department of Insurance has informational guides to help you with the purchase of insurance, what you may need to know, and some related information. The information is divided up into automobile, residential, health, life, business, seniors, and general insurance.
Home Match connects community members seeking housing with older adults who have extra space in their homes. Each match is personalized with the process overseen by program staff—at no cost to participants. Home Match benefits everyone. It decreases isolation, provides housing security, and above all, builds community.
Financial Assistance for Utility Bills
PG&E has several programs to provide bill assistance to residents in need. Learn more about low-income assistance, family rates, and other financial assistance programs.
Events
Neighborhood Cleanups
Richmond District Neighborhood Cleanup
Volunteers will meet on the First Thursdays of the month at One Richmond (802 Clement St) to grab supplies and form crews. Then, cleaning will occur from 3:30pm to 4:30pm around the neighborhood.
RSVP
Fort Miley Cleanup
Public parking available at El Camino del Mar Parking Lot. From the parking lot, take the paved trail marked Picnic Area to the top. Volunteers will meet every Thursday at Fort Miley (Battery Chester) to grab supplies and form crews. Then, cleaning, painting, and trail maintenance will occur every Thursday from 10am to 12pm around Fort Miley.
RSVP
Marina Happy Hour Cleanup
Volunteers will meet every Thursday at Wilder (3154 Fillmore St) every 4th Thursday to grab supplies and form crews. Then, cleaning will occur from 4pm to 5pm around the neighborhood. Stay afterwards for a free round on the house and to meet fellow volunteers.
RSVP
Miraloma Cleanup
Volunteers will meet on the first Tuesday of the month at Mollie Stone's Tower Market (635 Portola Dr) to grab supplies and form crews. Then, cleaning will occur from 10am to 11:30pm around the neighborhood. Stay afterwards for a free coffee from Starbucks and to meet fellow volunteers.
RSVP
Masonic Avenue Cleanup
Volunteers will meet every Wednesday at Trader Joe’s (3 Masonic Ave) to grab supplies and form crews. Then, cleaning will occur from 9:30am to 11am around the neighborhood.
RSVP
Sunset Farmers Market and Mercantile
Date: Every Sunday from 9 AM to 2 PM
The Sunset Farmers Market and Mercantile features local vendors, makers, merchants, artists, live music, and children’s activities every Sunday at 37th Avenue and Ortega!
CAL FIRE’s Wildfire Prevention Grants
As we prepare for wildfire season, California has made significant strides in resource allocation. Governor Newsom announced that CAL FIRE is making up to $70 million available through a dedicated grant program aimed at strengthening our local communities against fire risk. This funding is specifically designed to empower neighbors and community groups - like ours - to take proactive steps such as clearing hazardous brush, improving evacuation routes near critical infrastructure, and enhancing neighborhood safety planning before a crisis occurs.
We strongly encourage local community leaders and residents who are interested in learning how this funding can benefit your immediate area to review the details directly on the CAL FIRE website. For comprehensive information regarding eligibility, workshops, and application requirements, please visit CAL FIRE Grants.
SUN Bucks California
SUN Bucks is a food assistance program that provides eligible children with $120 allocations (per child) for nutritious food during the summer intersession when schools are closed.
Most eligible children get SUN Bucks automatically. Other families must apply for SUN Bucks benefits at their child’s school.
Learn more about the program and eligibility requirements.
Chinese Hospital Gellert Health Services
The Chinese Hospital Gellert Health Services is hosting the Gellert Community Health Fair. Free activities will include health screenings, health education & community resources, meeting healthcare providers, family-friendly activities & giveaways. All are welcome!
Date: Saturday, August 22
Time: 10am-2pm
Location: 386 Gellert Blvd., Daly City, CA 94015
I-280 Farallones Pedestrian Overcrossing Rehabilitation Project
Join Caltrans District 4 to discuss upcoming construction on the I-280 Farallones Street Pedestrian Overcrossing Rehabilitation Project.
Community Open Houses:
Wednesday, July 22, 5:30-7pm
Ocean View Branch Library
345 Randolph Street, San Francisco, CA 94132
Thursday, July 23, 1-2:30pm
Excelsior Branch Library
4400 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94112
Saturday, July 25, 11am-12:30pm
Cayuga Park Clubhouse - Multipurpose Room
301 Naglee Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94112
