February 20, 2020 - Sacramento– California State Senator Andreas Borgeas (R-Fresno) issued the following statement on the Governor’s State of the State Address:

“The Governor focused his speech on some of the most important issues today: homelessness and housing affordability,” said Senator Borgeas. “These issues must be addressed because homelessness is skyrocketing in Fresno, Turlock, and our foothill communities, much like the rest of the state.”

“The Governor declared it’s time to get to work on housing. Resolving the housing crisis will never be achievable unless Sacramento also pursues CEQA reform to reduce the high cost of building. This is one of the single most frustrating elements preventing the construction of more housing.”

“The Governor failed to mention a plan to enhance water infrastructure and storage, such as the Friant-Kern Canal. Earlier today, I had a phone call with the White House regarding the President’s new executive orders. I appreciate the attention the President’s administration is giving to these issues and hope California will present itself as a partner as well.”

“Additionally, the Governor’s budgetary support of AB 5 is baffling given that hundreds of thousands of jobs could be decimated, particularly in the Central Valley. If we want to continue creating jobs, we must allow flexibility for freelancers and independent contractors to work independently. I will be holding a Town Hall meeting on AB 5 in Fresno on February 27th.”
Source: Senator Andreas Borgeas

Related: California Governor Gavin Newsom Delivers State of the State Address on Homelessness