Assemblywoman Pacheco Secures $3.5 Million for Community Projects in Downey, Bell and Cudahy

State investments will expand opportunities for youth and families, improve recreational facilities, and support new community spaces

DOWNEY, CA — Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco (D-Downey) joined local leaders and community members this week to celebrate $3.5 million in state funding she secured for four projects across California's 64th Assembly District.

Riverside County DA's Office Praises New Ability To Seek Harsher Punishment In Some Sexual Assault Cases

Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed AB 1741, Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco’s “Safe at Home Act,” which allows prosecutors to charge certain sexual batteries committed after an unlawful residential entry as either a felony or misdemeanor. The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, which sponsored the bill, thanked the Assemblywoman for carrying it through the Legislature and said the change gives prosecutors greater flexibility to seek felony convictions in serious residential cases.

Community colleges will be able to grant more bachelor’s degrees under law signed by Newsom

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Friday expanding the ability of California community colleges to offer bachelor’s degrees. One of the two measures, AB 2694, was authored by Assemblymembers David Alvarez and Blanca Pacheco. Together with SB 960, the new law replaces the existing prohibition on community-college bachelor’s programs that duplicate UC or CSU offerings with a framework based on regional workforce needs and college performance. The laws take effect Jan. 1, 2028.