Dear Editor – Holly Mitchell Looks Back at 54 Bills Signed into Law

October is always busy. As a legislator, I spend half of my time urging the Governor to sign my bills and half my time fighting to get good candidates elected. This year is certainly no exception.

Once again, we passed some very meaningful legislation. We put working families first (Repealed the MFG), we stood up against wrongful civil seizures (SB 443), and we expanded how we protect victims of sex trafficking (SB 1322). These and my other bills were signed because of broad coalitions, strong allies and engaged supporters like you, who stood with me and up to the Governor, to ensure that our progressive forward-moving voices are heard.

At the close of this year’s legislative session, with 54 bills signed into law in just 6 six years, I can say that I am proud of my record, I am proud of our work and I am excited about the future of California.

And then there is November 8th

On November 8, 2016, the United States will host the first presidential election in 51 years not covered by the full protections of the Voting Rights Act, namely without Section IV of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). Thirty-four states have introduced new restrictive voting laws ranging from truncating early voting days to multiple ID requirements, despite the lack of evidence of voter fraud. While these laws are not in California, we must be vigilant and work to make sure that all communities get out to the polls on Election Day.

This year’s election cycle has brought out the best and the worst of who we can be. But, in the words of someone I respect greatly, “When they go low, we go high.” I am committed to ensuring that good candidates are elected this November 8th.

Here’s What You Can Do:
Engage With Local and State Elected Officials
Know your polling officer, voting precincts and voting hours.
Meet with your Mayor, City Council person or County Supervisor.
Be aware of the ballot issues and the candidates.

Create a Voting Plan
Confirm that you are eligible to vote several weeks before Election Day.
Know the hours that the polls open and close.
Know where your polling location is and how you will get there.
Decide before Election Day whether you will vote in the morning, afternoon or evening, accounting for work, travel, and childcare needs where applicable.
Research the options for early voting in your area.
For more information on facts to know for federal elections, read “14 Facts about Voting Elections” published by the US Election Assistance Commission.

Engage
Reach out to AT LEAST one young person, one elderly person, and someone who
relies on public transportation – and help to get them to the polls.

Know How to File a Complaint
Contact state or local election office for information on procedures specific to your locality. Register a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice at (800) 253-3931 or [email protected].

See you at the polls, at a community meeting or canvassing!

Senator Holly J. Mitchell