The past few days have been heavy for us all. As a mother, I feel this loss in my heart. No family should ever lose a child like this and no community should have to carry this kind of pain. What happened in Stockton on the evening of November 29th is not who we are, it is something that happened to us. I have spoken with local leaders and partners to extend mutual aid from the State for the families affected as well as first responders.

On Sunday night, I stood with my community and prayed in unity. There is a long road ahead to repair harm for the victims and the Stockton community. I am committed to continuing to work in unity for a better tomorrow without hate or violence.

November was a difficult month for many families across the country. The federal shutdown caused furloughs, travel delays, and a temporary pause on SNAP (EBT) benefits. I am relieved that Californians are back to work and that benefits helping families keep food on the table are restored.

As I prepare to return to session in January, my focus remains on making California more affordable and sustainable. Thank you for staying engaged. As we close out the year, I am grateful for the trust you place in me to represent you in the Legislature, and I wish you and your loved ones a meaningful and hopeful holiday season.

Warmly,

Rhodesia Ransom
Assemblymember, District 13

In this update, you'll find the following:

• Legislative Update
• Casework Services
• Community Engagement

Legislative Update

What's at Stake for Healthcare
My office has heard from constituents deeply concerned about rising healthcare costs and the future of their coverage. Many families are understandably worried about what comes next. Here's what's going on:

• The federal government has reopened, but the agreement did not include healthcare. Congress is expected to vote in mid-December on whether to extend enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies that help millions of Americans afford coverage.
• These subsidies are set to expire at the end of December 2025, which could cause premiums to double or even triple for nearly 2 million Californians.
• If Congress fails to act, California could lose $2.5 billion in premium savings, and up to 400,000 people statewide could be forced to drop their coverage due to rising costs.
• California is working to keep healthcare affordable, protect hospitals, and safeguard women's health programs, even as national uncertainty continues.

Cost of Living Relief
Making California more affordable remains one of my top priorities. I've continued working to support legislation that lowers everyday costs for families. My bill to expand internet affordability for all was included in the Governor's Housing Affordability Package, helping ensure that every household has access to affordable, reliable internet.

Recently signed new laws to help reduce costs for families:

• Up to $60 billion in electricity bill credits for California families.
• AB 628 ensures that rental units include basic appliances like stoves and refrigerators, which are critical for working families and seniors on fixed incomes.
• AB 246 protects tenants from eviction when delays in federal benefits like Social Security affect rent payments.
• AB 578 ensures customers get automatic refunds for undelivered food delivery orders.

Casework Services

My office has helped residents recover more than $600,000 in delayed payments by cutting through red tape with state agencies like the Employment Development Department (EDD) and the Franchise Tax Board.

If you or someone you know is facing delays with any state department or program, don't hesitate to reach out to my District Office for free assistance.

Community Engagement

Grateful to partner with the Emergency Food Bank to help families put food on the table this holiday season. We distributed thousands of meals to local families in need.

Joined the American Legion Post 172 in honoring those who answered the call to serve. Their service built our safety. I proudly stand with you. Thank you for your service!

Thank you to everyone who joined me at Plaza Perks to share ideas, concerns, and community priorities.

Recognizing the incredible students at Kimball High who are leading with kindness and courage. Standing up against bullying makes our schools and communities stronger.

Reading to bright young minds at Tracy KinderCare and seeing their "learning through play" philosophy in action was such a joy. Access to affordable, high-quality childcare is essential for California families and strengthens our economy.