Press Release

Senator Limón joined by Diverse Coalition to Show Support for Transparency in Gubernatorial Appointments

(SACRAMENTO) – On Wednesday, Senator Monique Limón was joined by a diverse coalition including  and equity advocates to highlight the importance of Senate Bill 702. SB 702 requires an annual report on data of individuals appointed by the Governor to measure and ensure the state's boards and commissions are representative of the state. Thus far, SB 702 has received bipartisan support in both houses.   

“One of the best ways Californians can represent their communities at the state level is through state boards and commissions,” said Senator Monique Limón. “Bringing transparency to our gubernatorial appointments ensures California is leading the way, and reflecting our state’s true reflection and  diversity.” 

In 2022, the UCLA Latino Policy and Politics Institute released a report showing there are large discrepancies in appointments made by the governor in relation to the state’s demographics – especially amongst Latinos, women, and other communities of color. While the report highlighted the need for more diverse representation, it also showed that a significant 70.7% of all currently seated Latinos were appointed by Governor Newsom. While Governor Newsom has made a commitment to diversifying the executive branch, we must ensure we have systemic practices in place to diversify state representation in the future. 

“It is often said that ‘California is one of the most diverse states in the world’s most diverse democracy,’ yet there is little transparency as to whether that diversity is reflected on important boards and commissions that make decisions impacting the lives of diverse communities every day. If we are serious about creating a California for All, we need to know if all Californians are represented in gubernatorial appointments. SB702 will ensure that we move in that direction by making publicly available important demographic information about gubernatorial appointments. By signing SB702, Governor Newsom will send a clear message that in California, we don’t just say diversity matters, we show it,” said Helen Torres, CEO of Hispanas Organized for Political Equity. 

SB 702 will be heard on the Assembly Floor next week. 

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Monique Limón represents the 19th Senate District, which includes Santa Barbara, Ventura, Goleta, Buellton, Carpinteria, Guadalupe, Lompoc, Santa Maria, Solvang, Camarillo, Fillmore, Ojai, Oxnard, Santa Paula, and Port Hueneme. She currently serves as the Chair of the Senate Banking and Financial Institutions Committee.