A Committee of The Lake Arrowhead Communities Chamber of Commerce
LakeArrowheadGovernmentAffairs.org
LEGISLATION
"All Legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a
Senate and House of Representatives."
(Article I, Section 1, of the United States Constitution)
How Are Laws Made?
Laws begin as ideas. First, a representative sponsors a bill. The bill is then assigned to a committee for study. If released by the committee, the bill is put on a calendar to be voted on, debated or amended. If the bill passes by simple majority (218 of 435), the bill moves to the Senate. In the Senate, the bill is assigned to another committee and, if released, debated and voted on. Again, a simple majority (51 of 100) passes the bill. Finally, a conference committee made of House and Senate members works out any differences between the House and Senate versions of the bill. The resulting bill returns to the House and Senate for final approval. The Government Printing Office prints the revised bill in a process called enrolling. The President has 10 days to sign or veto the enrolled bill.
Current Legislation
Below is a summary of current legislation that has in impact on our community
Legislation
Supervisor Dawn Rowe
The Board of Supervisors took several actions during its regular board meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 16, including supporting infrastructure, public safety and community need initiatives, expanding behavioral health response through the Emergency Communications Nurse System, approving One Stop Transitional Age Youth (TAY) Center services, accepting various grants and the donation of a trained law enforcement canine, waiving pet adoption fees, and partnering with universities and hospitals for increased workforce training.
County invests $7.5 million in Loma Linda University Health child abuse programs
From left, First District Supervisor Col. Paul Cook (Ret.); Vice Chair and Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr.; Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe; Dr. Amy Young; Children and Family Services Director Jeany Glasgow; Second District Supervisor Jesse Armendarez; Fourth District Supervisor Curt Hagman; and Chief Executive Officer Luther Snoke.
Each year, tens of thousands of children are reported to San Bernardino County as possible victims of abuse or neglect. At Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, a specialized medical team has become one of the most influential forces in identifying abuse, protecting young victims, and guiding families toward long-term healing.
Volunteers needed for county’s annual homeless count
A volunteer speaks with a person experiencing homelessness.
San Bernardino County is calling on volunteers to help with the official count of unsheltered individuals on Jan. 22 to gather data that will be used to determine how federal funds are distributed.
The annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count, a collaboration between the San Bernardino County Office of Homeless Services and the San Bernardino County Homeless Partnership, provides a snapshot of the county’s homeless population, which helps officials track progress toward reducing homelessness and ensures resources are being directed to the communities with the greatest need.
County Fire explores drone technology for early wildfire prevention
As part of its ongoing pursuit of new and emerging technologies, San Bernardino County Fire recently welcomed a demonstration by Seneca, a California-based company specializing in aerial fire suppression innovation. The demonstration featured the Argo-1, a semi-autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to assist firefighters and transform initial response tactics to vegetation fires.
ARMC partners with Public Health to receive Quality Leader Award
Click on image to view video.
Arrowhead Regional Medical Center has been awarded the 2025 Quality Leader Award for Population Health by the California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems and the California Health Care Safety Net Institute. The recognition highlights ARMC’s innovative, measurable and equity-driven efforts to reduce the spread of communicable diseases through a strong partnership with the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health.
Mobile Defense Program brings free legal assistance to Chino
The San Bernardino County Public Defender’s Office partnered with Chaffey College to bring the Mobile Defense Program to the Chaffey College Chino Community Center on Dec. 3, providing residents with free legal assistance and access to essential county services. Community members met with public defender staff, resolved court matters through virtual court access, and received support with record clearing and outstanding fines.
Community Health Ambassador Program empowers community members as trusted health messengers
Launched in September 2024, the Community Health Ambassador Program (CHAP) was a year-long pilot initiative by the Inland Empire Health Plan in partnership with the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health’s Health Equity Program. Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Health Disparities Grant, CHAP equipped trusted community members in the High Desert region to serve as local health messengers.
County Library Adult Literacy Program offers free one-on-one tutoring for adults
Building bridges through education! Our Adult Literacy Program is fostering connections and empowering individuals.
The San Bernardino County Library invites adults across the county to improve their reading skills through its free Adult Literacy Program, a confidential, one-on-one tutoring initiative designed to help adult learners build confidence and achieve personal literacy goals.
Nutrition and Wellness Services program leaves a 43-year legacy
After 43 years of promoting healthy lifestyles and community well-being, San Bernardino County Public Health Department’s Nutrition and Wellness Services (NWS) will begin to wind down and is scheduled to sunset early next year. Throughout its history, NWS staff have built a lasting legacy of health promotion, known for their ability to connect with communities and foster strong partnerships that improve health and increase awareness of program services.
County employees donate nearly $20,500 to Community Action Partnership food bank for holiday basket program
San Bernardino County Human Services’ employees, together with the County Administrative Office and Human Resources, raised $20,492 during a month-long food drive supporting Community Action Partnership of San Bernardino County’s (CAPSBC) annual Holiday Basket Program.
Community comes together to find homes for shelter pets
San Bernardino County Animal Care would like to express its heartfelt appreciation to everyone who made the “Home for the Pawlidays” event a huge success on Saturday, Dec. 13. Whether you joined us in Devore or in Big Bear, we couldn’t have done it without you.
Senator Rosilicie Ochoa-Bogh
Senator Ochoa Bogh’s SB 1191 Signed into Law, Keeping Rural California Connected
Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) announced today that Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 1191, Telecommunications: Universal Service CHCF Programs: Sunset Extension, into law, preserving programs that help keep basic telecommunications services affordable and available in California’s rural and high-cost communities.
SB 1191 extends the California High-Cost Fund A (CHCF-A) and California High-Cost Fund B (CHCF-B) programs through January 1, 2033. Administered by the California Public Utilities Commission, the programs support basic voice telephone service in areas where difficult terrain, long distances between customers and low population density can make providing service more costly.
“Reliable telephone service is critical, especially in rural communities where residents depend on these networks to stay connected to family, emergency services and their communities,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “By extending these programs, SB 1191 helps ensure that where someone lives does not determine whether they can afford access to essential telecommunications services. I appreciate Governor Newsom signing this measure into law.”
The High-Cost Fund programs support local exchange carriers that have a “Carrier of Last Resort” obligation to provide basic voice service capable of reaching 911 emergency services to residents within their service areas who request it. The programs also work alongside federal High-Cost funding to maximize support available to Californians.
“We can’t thank Senator Ochoa Bogh enough for being a champion for rural Californians and their access to modern telecommunications networks,” said Jason Tikijian, Chair of California’s Independent Telecommunications Companies. “Her SB 1191 will continue the financial support that keeps rural phone rates affordable. It couldn’t come at a more critical time for our customers and communities.”
SB 1191 was co-sponsored by California’s Independent Telecommunications Companies and the California Communications Association, with support from US\Telecom – The Broadband Association.
Congressman Jay Obernolte
Sharing Election Day Resources
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3! I encourage everyone in California's 23rd Congressional District who is eligible to vote and has not already cast a ballot to participate in this year's election.
With Election Day just a day away, I also want to remind voters to review their voting options and make sure they have the information needed to cast their ballots. Polling locations, voter registration information, and ballot tracking resources are available through the California Secretary of State's website.
Supporting Infrastructure Improvements in Yucaipa
I was honored to be recognized by the Yucaipa City Council this week for my work advocating for the city's infrastructure priorities. From the Wilson III Basin flood control project to the proposed I-10/Wildwood Canyon Road Interchange, these investments are critical to improving public safety, strengthening infrastructure, and supporting Yucaipa's growth. I appreciate City Manager Dr. Sean Moore and the Yucaipa City Council for this recognition, and I'm looking forward to continuing our work together to address both the challenges and opportunities facing our community.
Expanding Access to Rural Healthcare
I am pleased to see that $233.6 million in new federal funding is coming to California through the Rural Health Transformation Program. Rural healthcare providers face significant challenges in recruiting and retaining medical professionals, maintaining access to specialty care, and coordinating services across healthcare systems. This funding will help address those challenges by strengthening our healthcare workforce, expanding telehealth services, and improving coordination between providers. These investments are critical to improving access to quality healthcare for families in California's 23rd District and across our state.
Strengthening Water Resource Development
I was delighted to join local water leaders for the dedication of the Santa Ana Watershed Hydro Authority. This partnership between four local water agencies will oversee seven hydroelectric facilities, helping support reliable, renewable energy generation while protecting our community’s water supply. Thank you to everyone involved in this effort to make better use of our existing infrastructure and strengthen local water and energy resources!
Advocating for Lower Gas Prices
Drivers in Washington state currently pay an average of $5.34 per gallon for gas, while Californians are paying $6.08, nearly 75 cents more per gallon. California continues to have the highest gas prices in the nation, with burdensome fuel regulations and taxes adding to the cost of filling up. California families deserve energy policies that prioritize affordability and provide relief at the pump!
Protecting Against Government Impersonation Scams
Government impersonation schemes are becoming increasingly sophisticated, putting personal and financial information at risk. The Federal Trade Commission recently filed a lawsuit against two private companies accused of using misleading advertisements and websites to impersonate official government passport services and charge consumers unnecessary fees. When accessing federal services online, it is important to verify that you’re using official .gov websites, exercise caution with sponsored advertisements, and remain vigilant against suspicious requests for personal information or payment.
Addressing California's High Gas Prices
A gallon of gas costs an average of $4.88 in Idaho, compared to $6.28 in California. That's an additional $1.40 per gallon California drivers are paying just to fill their tanks! While families across our country are facing higher energy costs, California's excessive fuel taxes and regulations are making matters even worse. That is why I have asked the Governor to temporarily halt the California gas tax to give our families and businesses some relief. Californians deserve policies that prioritize affordability and provide relief at the pump!
Supporting Improvements Along State Route 58
I’m pleased to announce that the Kern Council of Governments has been awarded a $1.37 million federal BUILD grant to study potential improvements to State Route 58 between Interstate 5 and Barstow. SR 58 is a critical transportation corridor connecting the High Desert to the Central Valley and supporting the movement of goods throughout California and across the country. As freight traffic continues to increase, this study will help identify opportunities to improve roadway safety, efficiency, and capacity while supporting future economic growth.
Advancing Innovation at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center
I enjoyed meeting with Andrea Daugherty, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center's new Chief Information & Digital Transformation Officer, to discuss how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, can improve healthcare delivery. Thank you to Andrea and the ARMC team for sharing their work to advance innovation and better serve patients across our community!
Strengthening Crime Prevention
October is National Crime Prevention Month, an opportunity to highlight the importance of keeping our neighborhoods safe and supporting local law enforcement. Crime impacts families, small businesses, and residents across our community. That is why I cosponsored the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act, which passed the House earlier this year and will give law enforcement additional tools to combat organized retail theft. We must continue fighting to protect residents, support local businesses, and hold criminals accountable.
Protecting Taxpayer Dollars in Medi-Cal
Medi-Cal provides critical care to millions of Californians. Troublingly, the California State Auditor recently found that more than 26,000 Medi-Cal providers identified as high risk for potentially inappropriate billing have not been referred for further review or investigation. Those providers accounted for at least $12 billion in Medi-Cal services. Every dollar of fraud is a dollar that is not available to help our most vulnerable citizens access the care they need. Now, CMS is deferring another $1.2 billion in federal Medicaid payments while it reviews unusual growth in California’s personal care services. California taxpayers deserve to know that their money is being used wisely and appropriately. Stronger oversight is necessary to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse while protecting the vulnerable patients who depend on this critical program.
Supporting Local Credit Unions
It was a pleasure meeting with Brandon Smith from Arrowhead Credit Union to learn more about their important work supporting residents and small businesses throughout our community. Credit unions play a critical role in providing access to financial services and home loans to support local economic growth.
Improving Cybersecurity Through Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence has enormous potential to improve our cybersecurity. Recently, researchers using AI uncovered critical security vulnerabilities in PHP, a programming language used by millions of websites worldwide. This discovery will help developers address potential security risks and better protect sensitive information. It's a real-world example of how AI can help solve complex problems and strengthen our digital infrastructure. As this technology continues to advance, we must encourage responsible innovation that allows Americans to benefit from its full potential.
My office is here for you!
One of the key functions of my Congressional office is to help constituents like you with any problems you may face concerning the federal government. If you or a family member need help with a federal government problem, please contact my office. You can reach my Hesperia office via phone at 760-247-1815, email me at Jay.Obernolte@mail.house.gov, or find more information on how we can help at obernolte.house.gov/services.
Get help with the federal government
It is an honor to serve you.
Assemblyman Tom Lakey
Assemblyman Tom Lackey Blasts Reckless Budget: A Sham That Betrays Californians
SACRAMENTO – Assemblyman Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) condemned the Supermajority’s budget, calling it a “misleading accomplishment” that sacrifices public safety, and common sense in favor of political vanity projects.
“This budget is a betrayal. Full stop,” said Assemblyman Lackey. “It pours billions into failed projects like the High-Speed Rail while ignoring the immediate needs of Californians. These jobs matter - but those workers could be put to better use on fire mitigation, road repairs, and real infrastructure that our communities actually need. But instead of responsible leadership, the Supermajority is too busy writing checks for dreams that died years ago.”
As Los Angeles rebuilds from the devastating wildfires, the budget recklessly commits $1 billion to the Governor’s High-Speed Rail, while only offering a meager $200 million for wildfire prevention - a fraction of what the state spent in prior years. As family homes and neighborhood businesses are left in ashes, the Supermajority chooses to bankroll a mismanaged rail fantasy.
This budget makes their priorities crystal clear - and voters’ priorities are not among them.
Mere months ago, voters overwhelmingly passed Proposition 36 to reform sentencing laws and invest in drug treatment and rehabilitation. But while retail theft surges and fentanyl deaths rise, this budget fails to deliver on the core promise of Prop 36. Instead of the $400 million needed to support treatment and courts, the budget offers a patchwork of just $110–200 million - barely half of what is required.
“This budget is a shameful dismissal of California’s needs,” concluded Lackey. “It’s time we stop chasing flashy headlines and start fixing the issues that actually matter - public safety, and fire protection. This budget is not a true accomplishment.”