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Governor Signs Legislation for Critical Investments in Live Theatre

Wednesday, September 20 2023

Sacramento, CA - Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank) announced that Governor Newsom has signed legislation that helps support small nonprofit performing arts venues, commonly known as community theaters. Budget bill SB 104 included $11.5 million to fund a program set up last year in SB 1116, a bill authored by Senator Portantino that established the Equitable Payroll Fund (EPF) to support live theatre. This effort comes at a time when many small community theatres are struggling in the aftermath of the pandemic and far too many are closing.

Portantino’s Striking Worker Bill Goes to Governor

Thursday, September 14 2023

Sacramento, CA – Today, Senate Bill 799, authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank), passed the Senate and is headed to the Governor. The bill seeks to provide unemployment insurance benefits for striking workers. SB 799 is sponsored by the California Labor Federation and is jointly authored by Senator Maria Elena Durazo and Assemblymember Chris Holden.

Portantino’s School Employee Protection Bill Heads to Governor

Thursday, September 14 2023

Sacramento, California – Senate Bill 596, authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank), passed the Senate and is headed to the Governor. The bill addresses the issue of school employees facing harassment and threats while pursuing the private lives.

Mental Health Education & Training Bill Heads to Governor

Wednesday, September 13 2023

Sacramento, California – SB 509, authored by Senator Anthony J. Portantino (D – Burbank), passed the Senate today and is now headed to the Governor’s desk for signature. The bill addresses the growing mental health crisis among California’s youth by implementing mental health education and training in schools.

Portantino’s Opioid Overdose Prevention Bill Goes to Governor