November 2024 Round-Up

As we close out November, I want to reflect on the power of community, resilience, and hope that makes California truly special. Last month, we celebrated Native American Heritage Month, honoring the indigenous communities whose culture, wisdom, and contributions are vital to California’s identity. We also paid tribute to our military veterans on Veteran’s Day, recognizing their sacrifices for our freedoms. As we gather with loved ones this holiday season, let’s give thanks for the diversity and strength that make our state a beacon of opportunity for all. 

We also observed Transgender Day of Remembrance, a somber moment to honor the lives lost to violence and discrimination. In California, we continue to push for inclusion and support for the transgender community, and this year marks a historic moment for gender equity with gender parity in our state Senate. This milestone reflects our commitment to a government that truly represents all Californians. 

As we look to the future, let’s continue to move forward with optimism. When the headlines might leave us feeling uncertain, it’s important to remember that the work we do here—fighting for equity, representation, and justice—has never been more important. The path forward will require all of us to stand up, stay engaged, and continue fighting for a future where everyone’s rights are respected. We know that in California, we are making real progress—together. 

Eleni Kounalakis
Lieutenant Governor of California

A Historic Milestone for California: Gender Parity in the Senate 

This month, I am thrilled to share that for the first time in our state’s history, women now make up over 50% of California’s Senate—a groundbreaking achievement for equity and progress. With over 50 women now serving across the Legislature, California is building a government that truly reflects the people it serves. Together, we are shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the Golden State. 

Read the Full Press Release regarding the announcement. 

Historic $72.5 Million Settlement in Refugio Beach Oil Spill Case 

This month, I was proud to join the California State Lands Commission in announcing a $72.5 million settlement with Plains All American Pipeline to address damages from the devastating 2015 Refugio Beach oil spill. This settlement, achieved after years of legal effort, reinforces California’s commitment to environmental protection and ensuring polluters cover the costs of their negligence. The spill, caused by the rupture of Line 901, released over 120,000 gallons of crude oil into the Pacific, severely impacting Santa Barbara’s beaches, wildlife, and economy. This milestone reflects the state’s dedication to safeguarding its coastlines and California taxpayers. 

Read the Full Press Release regarding the announcement. 

California International Affairs and Trade Development Interagency Committee Meeting 

In November, I had the privilege of convening California’s International Affairs and Trade Development Interagency Committee to discuss our state’s global partnerships and priorities for the year ahead. Representatives of the California Environmental Protection Agency, California State Transportation Agency, California Natural Resources Agency, California Department of Food and Agriculture, California Air Resources Board, California Energy Commission, Visit California, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (CalOES), Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) and Office of Land Use and Climate Innovation (LCI) provided summaries of their international engagements over the past year. They highlighted their work to create jobs, expand markets, promote tourism, and enhance disaster preparedness—all while advancing green, sustainable technologies. Together, we’re building a cleaner, healthier, and more socially just future for Californians and the world. 

Read the Full Press Release regarding the announcement. 

Transgender Day of Remembrance  

In honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance, members of our Transgender Advisory Council released a statement.  

Read the Full Statement from the Transgender Advisory Council. 

Meeting with Iceland’s Ambassador to the U.S., Svanhildur Holm Valsdottir  

This past month, I had the privilege of meeting with Iceland’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Svanhildur Holm Valsdottir, and California Energy Commission Chair, David Hochschild, to discuss opportunities for collaboration on climate solutions. As a global leader in geothermal energy, Iceland has demonstrated how to harness this renewable resource to power homes, their agricultural sector, and many other industries. With California already home to major geothermal sites like the Salton Sea and The Geysers, the potential for deeper partnerships is exciting. We can strengthen our shared commitment to a cleaner, greener future. 

Higher Education Updates 

As a proud member of the Boards for both the University of California (UC) and California State University (CSU) systems, I participated in pivotal discussions and decisions during this month’s meetings. At the UC Regents meeting in San Francisco, we approved preliminary plans funding for several major capital projects, including the construction of nearly 3,500 new beds on the UC Santa Barbara campus—a critical investment to address student housing needs. We also reviewed UCLA’s recently released report on antisemitism, a crucial step toward fostering inclusivity and safety across our campuses. Additionally, I had the opportunity to meet with leadership from the University Professional and Technical Employees Union, who are advocating for fair pay and benefits in their new contracts. 

At the CSU Trustees meeting in Long Beach, I joined other members of the Board in unanimously approving plans to integrate Cal Maritime with Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. This forward-thinking decision not only addresses persistent enrollment challenges at Cal Maritime but also establishes an exciting partnership that preserves its Maritime mission while harnessing the “learn by doing” ethos of Cal Poly, SLO. These efforts underscore our unwavering commitment to strengthening and advancing California’s public higher education system.