DOWNEY – Assemblymember Cristina Garcia is now accepting applications for her Young Legislator program, aimed at high school students interested in government. Participants will learn about the legislative process and learn the process by which proposed bills become law.

Students will meet regularly to discuss possible ideas for legislation and learn how to draft, submit and ultimately win approval for their proposals.

As students proceed in the program, the Young Legislators will be given hands-on experience working within their community as they participate in local events hosted by Garcia’s district office.

Students who successfully complete the program will travel to the State Capitol in Sacramento where they will coordinate with Garcia and her office to participate in bill development, mock committee hearings and a floor session in the State Assembly chambers.

“As a teacher, I am enthusiastic about expanding opportunities for students to grow and enrich their perspective,” Garcia said. “It is my goal to give students who have the desire and dedication an opportunity to learn how to be effective change drivers in their communities and participate fully in their government.

“It is really exciting to see students take the skills they pick up in the program and see them apply them to improve their community,” Garcia added. “I am investing in these students because in return, I expect them to invest in their communities.”

To be eligible for the Young Legislators program, applicants must be incoming high school seniors and possess at least a 2.5 grade point average.

To apply, visit Garcia’s website at asmdc.org/members/a58/ and click the “Young Legislators Application” button on the homepage, or call (562) 402-4893 for more information.

Deadline for applications is Oct. 31.

Garcia’s 58th Assembly district includes Downey, Montebello, Pico Rivera, Commerce, Bell Gardens, Norwalk, Bellflower, Cerritos and Artesia.

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Published: Sept. 18, 2014 - Volume 13 - Issue 23