Politics & Government

Legislative Wrap-Up: Grants, Honors and Budgets

Some of the things East Bay elected officials were working on this past week

Here's a recap of some of the things happening this past week in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) announced a federal grant has been awarded to an Oakland non-profit organization that assists troubled youth.

The $895,000 Face Forward Serving Juvenile Offenders grant will help Safe Passages find employment opportunities for youths transitioning out of the criminal justice system.

“These types of investments in our youth are critical to breaking the cycle of violence and crime by providing young people tools to build productive and prosperous lives," said Lee.

The grant is one of 28 grants worth $26 million given out nationwide to local organizations.

State Assemblywoman Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) announced the recipients of the 15th annual Assembly District Women of the Year awards. 

The 16 individuals and organizations were honored for their contributions in science, technology, engineering and math as well as their efforts to educate women and girls in these subjects.

Skinner also praised the 2013-2014 state budget that was signed by Gov. Jerry Brown, several days before the June 30 deadline.

The assemblywoman said the $96 billion budget strengthens schools by providing more funding for education. She added it will help reduce the backlog of California veterans' claims by adding employees to veteran service centers.

It also beefs up staffing at Cal OSHA. Skinner said that will help provide more inspections at facilities such as the Chevron refinery in Richmond.

“The budget signed today reflects a strong message from Californians: put education first, be prudent and protect essential services,” said Skinner.


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