Monthly Newsletter August, 2026 |
__SALUTATION__
July has been a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with the people and communities I am honored to represent. Throughout the month, I visited neighborhoods across Assembly District 76, met with local organizations and leaders, and listened to the ideas, challenges, and priorities shaping our region.
Every conversation serves as a reminder that effective public service begins with listening. The experiences shared by residents, educators, business owners, healthcare providers, and community advocates help guide my work and ensure the priorities of District 76 remain at the forefront in Sacramento.
Thank you to everyone who welcomed me and took the time to share your perspectives. I look forward to continuing these conversations and working together to deliver meaningful results for our district.
What's in this Newsletter?
Summer Recess: Continuing the Work at Home
While the Legislature has paused committee hearings and floor sessions for Summer Recess, the work of representing Assembly District 76 continues.
Recess provides an important opportunity to meet with stakeholders, visit local organizations, and focus on the issues impacting our communities outside the Capitol. My office is using this time to continue conversations on legislation, monitor the implementation of the state budget, and prepare for the final weeks of the legislative session.
As we look ahead to the Legislature's return, I remain focused on advancing policies that expand educational opportunity, improve healthcare access, strengthen public safety, and support working families throughout our district.
Strengthening California's Education System
Every student deserves the opportunity to succeed. California continues to make historic investments in public education, including a record $151.4 billion for TK-12 schools in this year's state budget.
These investments support special education, inclusive learning practices, literacy programs, teacher pathways that recruit, prepare, and retain the next generation of educators, after-school programs, and resources that help schools meet the needs of every student.
I was honored to join Governor Gavin Newsom as he signed AB 181, legislation I was proud to co-author with Assemblymember David Alvarez to modernize California's TK-12 education governance system.
AB 181 strengthens coordination across our education system by clarifying leadership responsibilities, improving accountability, and helping schools receive clearer guidance and support. More than 950 education organizations, county superintendents, school leaders, and advocacy groups supported this effort because a more coordinated system allows educators to spend less time navigating bureaucracy and more time focused on student success.
Together, these investments and reforms represent an important step toward building a stronger, more accountable, and student-centered education system for California's nearly 10,000 schools and six million students.
Women in Medicine
Every advance in medicine begins with people who are willing to ask difficult questions, challenge assumptions, and dedicate themselves to improving lives. Women in Medicine Day provided an opportunity to celebrate the physicians, researchers, educators, healthcare leaders, and future medical professionals whose contributions continue to strengthen healthcare in San Diego and beyond.
Before serving in the Legislature, I worked as a research scientist, and I understand the importance of turning discovery into meaningful impact. Women have played an essential role at every stage of this process—advancing research, providing compassionate care, educating future providers, and leading healthcare institutions.
I was honored to present a California State Assembly Resolution recognizing Women in Medicine Day and celebrate Dr. Anita Gupta for her outstanding contributions to medicine and expanding access to quality healthcare. Thank you to all the women in medicine whose expertise, compassion, and service improve lives every day. 🩺💙
Escondido Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs
Local businesses are the backbone of our communities, creating jobs, supporting families, and contributing to the character of our neighborhoods.
I enjoyed joining the Escondido Chamber of Commerce's Government Affairs meeting to hear directly from local business leaders about the opportunities and challenges facing our region. We discussed recent work in Sacramento, including AB 1834, legislation co-sponsored by the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce that streamlines approvals for mixed-use developments and helps create more opportunities for housing and economic growth.
We also discussed the importance of creating a business climate that supports innovation, reduces unnecessary regulatory burdens, and allows local employers to grow and invest in our communities. I shared updates on efforts to strengthen education, support public safety, and invest in programs that help our region thrive. These conversations are essential to ensuring state policies reflect the needs of the businesses, workers, and families we serve.
San Diego Pride
San Diego Pride is a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from a community where everyone has the opportunity to be seen, valued, and respected.
I was grateful to join neighbors, advocates, and community leaders in celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and recognizing the many contributions that have helped make San Diego a more welcoming and inclusive region. Pride is both a celebration of progress and a reminder of our continued responsibility to ensure everyone can live safely, authentically, and with dignity.
Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and community members who made this year's celebration possible. Your dedication reflects the spirit of San Diego and continues to strengthen our communities. 🏳️🌈
One of the most rewarding parts of serving our district is seeing firsthand the work happening in our communities. This month, I had the opportunity to meet with organizations, businesses, educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders who are helping make District 76 stronger.
From supporting foster youth and expanding healthcare access to advancing innovation, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, these visits highlighted the dedication and collaboration that drive our region forward.
Thank you to everyone who shared your work, expertise, and vision for the future of our communities. These conversations continue to inform the work we do together.
San Diego Port
Building a stronger waterfront means investing in both our economy and our environment.
From reducing emissions with electric cargo-handling equipment to restoring coastal habitats and expanding public access to San Diego Bay, the Port of San Diego is helping shape a more sustainable future for our region. During my visit, I learned how these investments are strengthening local businesses, improving air quality, and increasing resilience along our coastline.
The Port's work demonstrates that economic growth and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. Thank you to the Port of San Diego team for sharing your vision and for your continued leadership in protecting one of our region's greatest assets. ⚓🌊
Volunteer Day with the San Diego Food Bank
Every box packed and every volunteer hour helps provide food and support to families throughout our district.
I was grateful to bring together legislative offices from the San Diego North County Delegation for a volunteer day at the San Diego Food Bank, where we supported the Backpack Program. This program helps provide nutritious food to children and families who rely on school meals, ensuring they have something to eat over weekends and during summer breaks.
This experience was a powerful reminder that addressing hunger requires collaboration, compassion, and a shared commitment to serving our community. The San Diego Food Bank's impact is made possible through the dedication of volunteers, nonprofit partners, community organizations, and supporters who work together to ensure families across San Diego County have access to nutritious food and essential resources.
Thank you to everyone who welcomed us and to the incredible team at the San Diego Food Bank for the vital work you do every day to support our neighbors. 🥫🤝
CalVEBA
Access to quality healthcare begins long before someone walks into a doctor's office.
My visit with CalVEBA highlighted the important role strong employee benefits play in helping California's public employees and their families access preventive care, wellness resources, and support that improves long-term health outcomes.
We discussed how CalVEBA's whole-person approach — including health education, care navigation, childcare, wellness programs, and tools that help members make informed healthcare decisions — helps reduce barriers and strengthen healthier communities.
Thank you to the CalVEBA team for sharing your work and your commitment to supporting California's public employees and their families. 🩺
San Pasqual Academy
The people who work with foster youth every day provide some of the most important insight into what young people need to succeed.
I met with the San Pasqual Academy team to discuss foster youth education, placement, and the support systems that help students build stability and reach their goals. Our conversation highlighted the importance of partnerships among educators, caregivers, county agencies, and community organizations.
Supporting foster youth requires a strong network of people working together with a shared commitment to providing young people with opportunity, stability, and the tools they need to thrive.
Thank you to San Pasqual Academy for your partnership and dedication to improving outcomes for foster youth throughout our district. 🎓
Takeda and Amgen
California's life sciences industry plays a vital role in advancing healthcare, driving innovation, and creating high-quality jobs throughout our state.
I met with leaders from Takeda and Amgen to discuss how research, biotechnology, and public policy can work together to support medical breakthroughs and bring new treatments to patients. At Takeda, I learned more about their work developing medicines for patients with cancer, neurological, gastrointestinal, inflammatory, and rare diseases. At Amgen, we discussed biotechnology innovation, scientific discovery, and the process of bringing new therapies from the laboratory to the people who need them most.
These conversations reinforce the importance of maintaining a strong environment for research, biotech manufacturing, and continued innovation. Supporting California's life sciences sector means supporting better health outcomes, economic growth, and the future of medicine. 🥼💉
KPBS
It was a pleasure to visit the KPBS studios and learn more about the work behind the journalism and programming that keeps San Diego informed and connected.
From reporting on local issues to creating educational content for audiences of all ages, the KPBS team plays an important role in strengthening civic engagement and sharing stories that reflect our region.
Thank you to everyone at KPBS for the warm welcome and for your continued commitment to serving our community through trusted journalism and public media. 🎙️📺
Family Health Centers of Escondido and McAlister Institute
During my visits to Family Health Centers of Escondido and McAlister Institute, I saw firsthand the impact of integrated, community-based care and the difference it makes in people's lives.
From primary care and preventive services to behavioral health, substance use treatment, and recovery support, both organizations are helping ensure individuals and families can access the comprehensive care they need — when and where they need it. By bringing these services together, they help address the full range of health needs while reducing barriers to care and creating stronger pathways to recovery and wellness.
These visits reinforced the importance of investing in organizations that meet people where they are and provide compassionate, high-quality support close to home.
Thank you to both teams for your unwavering commitment to improving health outcomes, expanding access, and strengthening the health and well-being of communities throughout San Diego County. 💙
Strong public safety starts with strong partnerships. I recently convened a Public Safety Roundtable with leaders from across Assembly District 76, bringing together law enforcement, fire service, emergency management, and local government for a conversation about the challenges facing our communities and the work needed to address them.
Hearing directly from the people who serve our communities every day is essential to developing effective policies. The insights shared during this discussion helped highlight local priorities, strengthen coordination between partners, and identify opportunities for continued collaboration.
We discussed a range of public safety priorities, including emergency preparedness, school and workplace safety, support for first responders, lithium-ion battery safety, and ensuring victims and families have access to the resources they need. We also explored the important connection between public safety, education, and mental health—recognizing that safer communities are built through both preparedness and prevention.
Thank you to the public safety professionals who shared their expertise and helped make this conversation possible. Your partnership is critical as we continue working together to build safer, stronger, and more resilient communities throughout Assembly District 76.
Community traditions are one of the many things that make San Diego such a special place to call home. This Independence Day season, as we celebrated 250 years of our nation, I was grateful to join neighbors and community organizations at the Harmony Grove Parade & Picnic and the Rancho Bernardo Spirit of the 4th Parade.
At the Harmony Grove Parade & Picnic, residents, first responders, and community partners came together for a celebration centered on connection and service. It was especially meaningful to recognize Harmony Grove's Citizen of the Year and celebrate the many individuals who dedicate their time to making our communities stronger. Riding alongside neighbors and first responders was a wonderful reminder of the pride and spirit that define this community.
The Rancho Bernardo Spirit of the 4th Parade brought families, local organizations, and community groups together for another memorable celebration. Seeing generations of residents gather around a shared tradition reflected the strong sense of community that makes Rancho Bernardo such a special place.
Thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and everyone who helped make these celebrations possible. I'm grateful to be part of these communities and look forward to continuing to celebrate the traditions that bring us together.
STATE RESOURCE SPOTLIGHT: |
Investing in Your Child's Future |
Investing in Your Child's Future Starts Today! 🎓💙
Planning for your child's future can feel overwhelming, but California offers several free programs and savings opportunities to help families prepare for higher education, career training, and long-term financial security. Whether you're claiming free college savings through CalKIDS, opening a ScholarShare 529 account, or exploring resources for a child with a disability, there are programs available to help your family plan ahead.
Resources available for California families include:
- CalKIDS - Eligible California public school students may already have $500-$1,500 waiting in a free college savings account that can be used for college, trade schools, career training, books, housing, and more.
- CalABLE - Tax-free savings accounts that help families of children with qualifying disabilities save for education, housing, health care, transportation, and other qualified disability expenses while protecting eligibility for many public benefits.
- ScholarShare 529 - California's official college savings plan with flexible contribution options to help families save for college, community college, vocational training, and other qualified education expenses.
- California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) - Free resources to help students and families understand financial aid, complete applications, and learn about available state and federal assistance.
- Cal Grants - State-funded financial aid that helps eligible California students pay for college or career training and does not need to be repaid.
AD76 INTERNSHIP PROGRAM: |
Paid Internship Opportunities this Fall! |
Apply Now: Paid Fall Internship for College Students
We are seeking paid interns to join our District Office. Interns will have the opportunity to learn about the operations of an Assembly district office, which includes assisting with general administrative tasks, drafting responses to constituent requests and answering phones, assisting with legislative research, providing assistance on constituent casework, drafting and printing certificates of recognition, and working in coordination with the team on community events and meetings.
Candidates should have an interest in learning about the legislative process and how state government can serve constituents. Candidates must possess strong written and oral communications skills, be able to work well in a fast-paced, team environment, and be proficient in Microsoft Word and general office tasks.
College students & graduates interested in public service and state government are encouraged to apply. The internship term is September 2026 - December 2026, and the ideal candidate will be able to work up to at least 15 hours per week. This position is 100% in-person in the office. The compensation for the paid internship is $20 per hour and is not eligible for benefits.
Keep Up With My Office and Work On Social Media! |
My office is always working hard for the people of Assembly District 76! I encourage you to join us online to be the first to know how we are serving you.
Click here to follow on Instagram!
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My Office Can Help with State Agencies!
Our office is open and serving constituents in a number of ways. You can contact me and my staff by visiting my website. My office is here to help!
What can we do for you? My office's job is to connect you with resources and help with state agencies. Reach out and my staff will be happy to assist you!
Yours in service,
Dr. Darshana R. Patel
Assemblymember, District 76
We acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory and homelands of the Luiseño/Payómkawichum people. For more information please go to www.csusm.edu/cicsc.
