This past weekend, we honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose vision for America has shaped generations. His dream of equality, justice, and unity feels especially important today, reminding us how much we need these values in our country. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life shows us why it's important to keep hope alive and continue moving forward.
Enjoy today's newsletter and see how we commemorated his legacy.
Cheers,
Assemblymember Tasha Boerner
77th Assembly District
P.S. My office is available every day to talk with you about your concerns or help connect you with resources. You can reach us at (858) 481-7704 or Assemblymember.Boerner@assembly.ca.gov.
Assembly Communications & Conveyance Oversight Hearing
Today, I led an Assembly Communications & Conveyance Oversight Hearing focused on broadband affordability, an issue that still affects families throughout California.
As the cost of living goes up, from groceries and utilities to housing, many households are also finding it hard to pay for internet access. For many people, high broadband prices create barriers to education, healthcare, and jobs.
At today's hearing, we listened to both industry and consumer viewpoints to better understand the broadband market and how pricing affects people who are already struggling. Now that the federally-funded Affordable Connectivity Program has ended and federal support is limited, making broadband more affordable is still a top priority for my committee.
Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast Celebration
This morning, I had the pleasure of attending the California Legislative Black Caucus' MLK Jr. Breakfast Celebration. Thank you to Chair Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., and Vice Chair Assemblymember Isaac G. Bryan for putting together an event that celebrates the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Junior.
Celebrating my Legislative Aides' Work Anniversary
Team Tasha is getting back into the legislative session routine. In the first two weeks of the year, we celebrated the work anniversaries of my Legislative Aides, Christian Filbrun and Nichole Sidney!
Christian and Nichole make our legislative team whole and are great to work with. They bring humor and joy to our office and do an outstanding job.
Thank you both for being part of our team!
44th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
San Diego showed up to commemorate the 44th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Parade! Thousands of people from across San Diego County came together to remember the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. His mission reminds us that through unity, we can make progress as a nation.
Cleantech San Diego
Cleantech San Diego was founded in 2007 to accelerate clean technology innovation in our community. The member-based business organization includes more than 130 businesses, universities, governments, and nonprofits, all focused on one goal - sustainability.
The Southern California Energy Innovation Network (SCEIN) is a free incubator for clean energy startups in San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Imperial counties. It supports companies developing technologies to help California reach its climate goals. The program provides startups with access to resources, facilities, and industry connections to accelerate the launch of new energy technologies. Cleantech San Diego manages SCEIN, which is funded by several grants from the California Energy Commission to support the state's energy innovation industry.
Recently, I joined Cleantech San Diego's SCEIN and companies to chat a bit about the work I am doing in Sacramento to ensure California meets its energy goals.
Last Day with Our District Paid Intern Kailey
Congratulations to one of my District Paid Interns, Kailey Quezada, for completing her internship with my District Office!
Kailey was a joy to have on Team Tasha. She was always willing to extend a helping hand to whoever needed assistance. Her leadership skills grew within our office, and I know her humility and curiosity will take her wherever she wants to go.
Kailey is graduating from the Master's of Public Administration program at San Diego State University this year. She will also be starting a new internship with County Supervisor Montgomery-Steppe's office next week. Kailey's goal is to work in local government.
Kailey, thank you so much for your hard work these last few months. You're off to great places!
Tea Time with Tasha & Carlsbad Councilmember Teresa Acosta
New Episode of Tea Time with Tasha – Now Live!
This week, I'm sitting down with the trailblazing Teresa Acosta, Carlsbad's very first Latina and single mom to serve on the City Council!
In this powerful conversation, we dive into Teresa's inspiring journey from businesswoman to Councilmember, and how her unique perspective is shaping the future of Carlsbad.
1/23 - Accepting Nominations for Black History Month
I'd love your help to recognize local leaders in our community. This year's Black History Month theme is "A Century of Black History Commemorations."
If your nominee is selected, we'll feature them on social media and in my weekly newsletter. I am excited to see your nominations. The deadline to nominate someone is January 23, 2026.
1/30 - Accepting Nominations for Women of Impact
It is that time of year to recognize and celebrate the exceptional women of Assembly District 77 through my annual Women of Impact Awards Ceremony! I invite you to nominate women who live, work, attend school, or volunteer in the 77th Assembly District. This includes Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Del Mar, La Jolla, University City, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Point Loma, Downtown San Diego, and Coronado. The deadline is January 30, 2026.
2/19 - FAFSA & CalGrant Applications Webinar
Join Team Tasha for a webinar focused on the FAFSA and CalGrant applications on Thursday, February 19th, from 5-6 PM. Learn more about what is needed to apply for financial aid and hear from speakers from the San Diego Community College District and San Dieguito Union High School District for additional help. You do not want to miss this!
California Assist Mortgage Fund
If your home was destroyed or damaged by last year's San Diego floods, the new CalAssist Mortgage Fund may provide you with some relief. This state-funded program covers up to three months of mortgage payments with a maximum of $20,000 – and the funds never have to be repaid. Funds are limited, so don't wait! Visit the CalAssist Mortgage Fund website to learn more and apply.
CalKIDS - Children's College Savings Program
It is important to think about how you are saving for your child's future. CalKIDS was created to provide Californian children greater access to higher education institutions. Newborns and eligible low-income public school students may receive up to $1,500 in a CalKIDS account. This can help jumpstart your child's savings for college and career training!
Know Your Rights
I understand that many of us are feeling angry in the face of what is happening in our local communities and across the country. Individuals are being taken from the streets without due process, and people are living in fear every day. In these moments, it is essential to know your rights. The California Immigrant Guide offers various resources in multiple languages to assist you or those you know. I know these are unprecedented times, and we will get through this.
Outdoors for All Initiative
California has three passes available to families to access our state's parks. Going outdoors could not be easier! Let's unplug from our digital devices and enjoy some fresh air. For more Information on the California State Parks' Passes, visit the website.
Mental Health Apps for Families
There are two free mental health apps available to all children, youth, young adults, and families in California. BrightLife Kids and Soluna are two free apps to help families raise happy, healthy young minds. BrightLife Kids is for families whose children are 0-12 years old, and Soluna is for teens and young adults between ages 13-25. For more information on these resources, please visit the CalHOPE website.
Metrolink Discount for EBT Cardholders
NEW DISCOUNT: California EBT cardholders qualify for 50% off any Metrolink ticket or pass. Travel to school, work and anywhere else you need to be for less when you take the train.
Learn more on the Metrolink website.
CA Department of Consumer Affairs Licensed Business Search Tool
Look for the license! Don't jeopardize your safety, money, or peace of mind - use DCA's free online search tool to double-check.
Rebates Available for Water-Saving Upgrades
California residents and business owners can do their part to help the state conserve water by switching to more water-efficient appliances, and there are many rebates available to help with these upgrades.
From washers, toilets, and sprinkler systems to HVAC systems, commercial appliances, and more, there's probably a rebate out there you could take advantage of.
If you don't need to replace any appliances right now, you can help out by replacing turf and other retrofitting projects - click the link below to learn more about rebates and ways you can be more water wise.
