Help Improve California; Attend Senator Anderson’s Holiday Legislative Open House

Do you have ideas on how we can improve our great State?  If so, I need to hear from you at our Annual Holiday Legislative Open House that will be held this Thursday at the Toyota of El Cajon on 965 Arnele Dr. from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

I receive my best ideas from residents. In fact, 40% to 60% of the bills I have introduced in the Legislature in the past have originated from guests who attended our Legislative Open House.

Some of the bill ideas included helping small business owners grow and prosper.

I introduced Senate Bill 641which encourages more California residents to turn their passions into a business and more than 39,000 businesses will benefit from this measure.  The bill allows newly formed small or micro-businesses the opportunity to reinvest in their futures by eliminating the annual franchise tax for their first four years.

Another bill idea was brought to my attention by several members in the community and the La Mesa City Council who were increasingly frustrated and alarmed by a growing safety issue.  I authored Senate Bill 604, The Safe Intersections Act, which would prohibit individuals asking for money or attempting to sell merchandise while being within a busy intersection, creating a dangerous distraction for motorists while putting themselves at risk.  Unfortunately, this has become a serious problem throughout California that results in the death of nearly 400 Californians a year. La Mesa’s Police Chief Ed Aceves was instrumental by providing testimony and support of the bill.

Not only is our open house an important legislative event, it is also a great community occasion for neighbors to meet each other and enjoy a fun evening with the family.  My staff and I have been hosting this open house since 2007 and it has grown in size and popularity.

Organizations such as the East County Youth Symphony, a group of talented young musical students will provide beautiful music for attendees and students from the Grossmont Union Culinary School and the Art Institute will be cooking up delicious free food as well.

This event will be held this Thursday, November 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Toyota of El Cajon on 965 Arnele Dr.  Please RSVP at www.senate.ca.gov/anderson  so we can ensure that there are enough free hors d’oeuvres and refreshments for everyone.

 I hope to see you there.