Sacramento, California - State Assembly Speaker Toni G. Atkins announced today her select committee memberships for the 2015-2016 Regular Session and appointed Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia to the following Select Committees:

Chair, Select Committee on Renewable Energy Development & Restoration of the Salton Sea

“As the new Chair of the Select Committee on Renewable Energy Development and Restoration of the Salton Sea, I look forward to working with my fellow Assemblymembers on addressing these complex issues in a proactive and bi-partisan manner.  I’m also glad that my colleague Assemblymember Chad Mayes from Yucca Valley will be joining me in the discussion on the many opportunities that lie ahead for not only the State of California, but for our districts,” said Assemblymember Garcia.

Full roster on Committee on Renewable Energy Development & Restoration of Salton Sea:

• Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia, Chair
• Assemblymember Catharine B. Baker
• Assemblymember Bill Dodd
• Assemblymember Cristina Garcia
• Assemblymember Lorena S. Gonzalez
• Assemblymember Brian W. Jones
• Assemblymember Chad Mayes
• Assemblymember Anthony Rendon
• Assemblymember Das Williams

The Select Committee on Renewable Energy Development and Restoration of the Salton Sea will focus on the issues and challenges surrounding development of renewable energy projects and the implementation of ecological restoration plans of the Salton Sea area.

Select Committee on California-Mexico Binational Affairs

“This committee is of vital importance to our state’s economic engine. As the State Assembly representative bordering Mexicali, the capitol of Baja California, I will work on strengthening the trade and commerce between the two countries,” commented Assemblymember Garcia.

The select committee studies and makes legislative recommendations regarding infrastructure, economic development, social and civic exchanges of mutual benefit, and border-related matters between California and Mexico.

Select Committee on the Status of Girls and Women of Color

“I’m honored that the Speaker has chosen me to be on this committee. I look forward to furthering the discussion on policy issues that affect the lives of girls and women of color including the areas of gender equity; educational needs; women in the workplace and employment; health and safety; women in the military; and women veterans,” commented Assemblymember Garcia.

The Committee will develop recommendations which enable women to make the maximum contribution to society and provide information on issues that affect the lives of girls and women of color by having a dialogue, and organizing a series of public hearings to improve the lives of California’s young women of color.

Select Committee on the Digital Divide in Rural California

“It’s important that we continue the telecom discussion in our rural communities. Having dependable internet and reliable cell phone service is significantly important in these regions. Many depend on them for economic development and for emergency reasons,” commented Assemblymember Garcia

The committee will address the challenges rural Californians experience obtaining, and in some cases maintaining, consistent levels of dependable telecommunication services. These services routinely involve cell phone coverage and high-speed internet.

Select Committee on Workforce and Vocational Development

“We must continue investing in our own communities  to prepare them for tomorrow. By working with our local schools, community colleges and universities—we will better our workforce and attract more industries which in turn will help our state retain jobs and encourage more development.”

The Select Committee on Workforce and Vocational Development in California will address the needs and the challenges of preparing individuals for a skilled workforce.

Select Committee on Civic Engagement

 “As Californians, we must empower our youth to become active participants in the decision-making process at all levels. By having an informed public, we will make our communities a more sustainable and equitable place to live,” said Garcia.

The Select Committee will focus and develop recommendations on promoting an active citizenry and enhance social responsibility in the lives of Californians.