February 2025 Newsletter

Hello, Assembly District 78, and to those who celebrate - a Happy Lunar New Year! I'm your representative Chris Ward and for the month of February I want to bring you up to date on everything going on in the Capitol and the district, including introducing you to our Black History Month Honoree.

In January, I introduced AB 253 to reform Residential Permitting. California's housing crisis demands action, and the bill offers real solutions. This bill streamlines residential permitting by allowing licensed third-party professionals to step in when city reviews take too long, preventing unnecessary delays for small housing projects like ADUs. For wildfire survivors, this means faster construction of new homes and accessory units, helping families rebuild their lives without bureaucratic delays. AB 253 prioritizes efficiency, maintains safety standards, and makes housing more accessible for all Californians. Read more about AB 253 HERE.

Earlier this month, I focused on technology safety and consumer protection as key priorities in my work. I introduced AB 446 to ensure that online and app-based companies are not using your demographic data and algorithms to decide if you should pay more than others for the same goods. I am also working on efforts to protect your geolocation data from being freely sold to private third-party entities without your permission - and more. Read more about AB 446 HERE.

Fire resistant home that survived LA Palisades fires used Passive House design elements

I’m also tackling climate action with AB 368, which helps California build cleaner, more efficient homes. This bill pushes for Passive House energy standards as a new compliance pathway, cutting emissions, lowering energy costs, and improving fire resistance—all while making sustainable construction more affordable.

From left to right: top to bottom: Top left: Had a great meeting with SEIU Local 1000, talking about workers' rights and fair wages.Top Right: Touched base with Rady Children's Hospital to discuss improving care for our kids. Bottom Left: Had the pleasure of giving a tour of the California State Capitol and meeting with the San Diego Regional Chamber to discuss ways we can support local businesses and strengthen the region's economy! Bottom Right: During my visit to the Museum of Tolerance's Mobile Exhibit in Sacramento on Holocaust Remembrance Day, we remembered the six million Jews and countless others lost to hatred, reinforcing our commitment to confronting prejudice and educating future generations.

Last week, I had the pleasure of hosting the participants of my second annual civics contest and their families for a celebratory reception! This contest was created to inspire students to think critically about their role in shaping our democracy and to encourage them to become informed, engaged citizens. I was honored to recognize the top 25 art submissions and top five video submissions, as well as applaud the hard work and creativity of all who participated! Thank you to the Mission Trails Regional Park for hosting us, and to all of our donors for providing prizes for our winners! Check out my website to view the winning submissions.

Top 3 Art Pieces:

3rd Place - Gionni N.

Gionni showcases California's state amphibian, the red-legged frog, in a watercolor that highlights its significance in our state's ecosystem.

2nd - Sidney L.

Sidney captures California's state tree, the Redwood, in a watercolor piece featuring a stunning sunset.

1st - Everly F.

Everly highlights the iconic California Golden Poppy using watercolor and colored pencils.

Top 5 Video Submissions:

5th Place - Amanda O.
Amanda highlights the importance of California's green bins and how composting can help reduce waste and fight climate change.

Watch Video HERE!

4th Place - Lili F.
Lili breaks down the cost of living crisis in California and explores how a universal basic income program could provide relief.

Watch Video Here!

3rd Place - Elsie K.
Elsie tackles rising rental prices and housing affordability, offering solutions like housing vouchers, zoning reforms, and mixed-use developments.

Watch Video HERE!

2nd Place - Katrin L.
Katrin sheds light on the challenges facing California's education system, from overcrowded classrooms to teacher shortages and the impact of standardized testing.

Watch Video HERE!

1st Place - Aaron C.
Aaron uses his artistic talents to raise awareness about homelessness and the stigma surrounding it, delivering a powerful message of hope for housing security for all.

Watch Video HERE!

Protect Yourself from Scams! Join Assemblymember Ward's Virtual Senior Resources & Scam Stoppers Webinar

Learn how to safeguard yourself from scams and access valuable resources for seniors! Assemblymember Chris Ward is hosting a FREE virtual webinar on Friday, February 21^st at 1:00 PM. Experts from the Contractors State License Board, Department of Insurance, Department of Financial Protection, and the Department of Real Estate will share tips on avoiding fraud, managing your finances, and more.

This month we celebrate Black History Month, and as we recognize Black leaders who have come before it is also important to honor those with us today who continue to pave a path forward. This month I was able to honor Danielle Moore, a practicing attorney who is currently serving as the Chair of the Board of Port Commissioners. With nearly a decade of experience in business transactional law and renewable energy, she brings her expertise to every role she takes on. Danielle is a leader who strives to uplift those around her, and is doing the work to ensure there are opportunities for all not just today but for futures to come.

From left to right: top to bottom: Top left: Hosting my annual childcare roundtable discussion at the Toby Wells YMCA. Top Right: Welcoming Equality California with fellow LGBTQ+ San Diego public officials. Bottom Left: Attending Alliance San Diego's All Peoples Celebration. Bottom Right: Celebrating with Women of Color Roar at their annual breakfast event.

LGBTQ Caucus Chair Ward Addresses Impending Federal Attacks on LGBTQ+ Individuals

Asm. Chris Ward's Bill to Streamline Residential Housing Permitting

LGBTQ Caucus Chair Ward Responds to Latest Attack on CA Trans Youth

Surveillance Pricing Would Be Illegal Under Newly Proposed California Bill

As always, I want to thank you for your support. I'm grateful to be your representative and work on these issues and more. One of the best ways to stay informed is to follow my social media accounts on Facebook, X, Threads, and Instagram where you can know in real time what developments are happening or what I'm working on every day.

And if you need assistance, please know that my district office staff is available and ready to serve or answer any questions you may have. Feel free to reach out to the contact information at the end of this email, and a staff member will connect with you as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Christopher M. Ward
Assemblymember, 78th District