SACRAMENTO—Assemblymember James C. Ramos issued the following statement following legislative approval of the 2026-27 state budget:
I am gratified that both the state Assembly and Senate approved important public safety measures that I championed in the 2026-27 state budget.
The Legislature agrees that judges play a critical role for public safety, and we are committed to putting forth the funding necessary to support new judgeships and ensure our courts can effectively serve our communities, particularly those in the Inland Empire. Strengthening court capacity means faster access to justice, better outcomes for victims and safer neighborhoods. I am grateful for the advocacy and partnership of Inland Action in advancing these critical investments for our region.
It was also welcoming news to see that the budget sent to the governor also includes $15 million in ongoing grant funding to combat the Murdered and Missing Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis in California. We remain among the fifth highest in the nation in the nation in the number of unresolved MMIP cases. The ongoing trauma and consequences of such disproportionate violence affects generations, and it is time that we deal with this issue in a proactive, sustained manner.
California’s Assembly and Senate agreed our 988 Crisis Lifeline is a critical public safety investment. Building on my work in 2020 to establish the Office of Suicide Prevention through AB 2112, the budget continues funding to ensure we meet growing demand and deliver timely, life saving care. I’m proud to work alongside 988 crisis call centers like Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, and other local providers serving our communities on the frontlines.
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Assemblymember James C. Ramos proudly represents the 45th Assembly district that includes the Cities of Fontana, Highland, Mentone, Redlands, Rialto and San Bernardino. He is the first and only California Native American serving in the state’s legislature. Ramos chairs the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #6 on Public Safety and the Assembly Select Committee on Native American Affairs.