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Community to Capitol
March, 2026 |
It's been a busy and productive start to the year in the 76th Assembly District. From advancing key legislation in Sacramento to showing up in communities across the district, my team and I have been hard at work delivering results that reflect our shared values. We've continued listening to constituents, supporting local projects, and partnering with community leaders to tackle the challenges facing our neighborhoods. There's much more ahead this year, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to keep fighting for you and our communities.
I am deeply honored to receive the 2026 Legislator of the Year Award from California Life Sciences!
As a research scientist, I understand firsthand how critical it is to champion policies that advance life-saving cures and drive innovation for Californians. We must continue strengthening our life sciences and biotech ecosystems and supporting the families that power our economy through high-quality job creation. 👩🔬🧬
The legislative session is underway! Following the February 20 deadline to introduce new legislation, bills are now beginning to move through the committee process. I am proud to introduce a legislative package focused on enhancing our communities and addressing key challenges facing families in our district.
This year's package includes proposals designed to strengthen education, improve affordability, increase healthcare access, advance fire safety and wildfire preparedness, and support public safety. Each measure reflects ongoing conversations with constituents, community leaders, and local partners about the issues that matter most in our region.
As these bills move through the legislative process, I look forward to sharing updates and providing more details about each proposal. Be sure to follow along through my social media channels and newsletters to stay informed on their progress in the Legislature.
| A Special Legislative Update |
Introducing the Assembly Children's Caucus
I was proud to participate in the launch of the Assembly Children's Caucus, a new effort focused on ensuring that the needs of California's youngest residents are front and center in policymaking. California is home to nearly nine million children, yet their perspectives are not always reflected when policies are developed that shape their futures.
The Children's Caucus represents a commitment to keeping families and children at the forefront of our work in the Legislature. By prioritizing policies that support healthy development, strong schools, and safe communities, the caucus aims to help build a stronger future for our state. I am honored to join my colleagues as a member of the founding class of the Assembly Children's Caucus and look forward to advancing policies that support California's children and families.
Governor Signs SB 106
I joined members of the Legislative Women's Caucus as the Governor signed SB 106, legislation that provides $90 million in emergency funding to Planned Parenthood California to help sustain access to essential health services.
Protecting access to comprehensive women's health care, including reproductive care, remains a priority. The passage of SB 106 reflects the Legislature's continued commitment to ensuring that families across California can access safe, affordable, and reliable health care services when they need them.
Wear Red Day
February 6 marked Women's Heart Health Day, also known as #WearRedDay, a national effort to raise awareness about heart disease in women. The day serves as an important reminder to elevate conversations about prevention, early detection, and treatment.
Heart disease remains one of the leading health risks for women, making continued education and awareness critical. Observances like Wear Red Day help highlight the importance of proactive care and encourage women to prioritize their heart health.
Check out these local heart health resources:
Statewide Multi-Ethnic Chambers of Commerce
In February, I attended the Legislative Reception hosted by the Statewide Multi-Ethnic Chambers of Commerce, an organization representing more than 1.8 million diverse small businesses across California.
The event provided an opportunity to connect with business leaders and community stakeholders from across the state and discuss ways to strengthen California's small business ecosystem. Local businesses are the backbone of our communities, creating jobs, driving innovation, and helping neighborhoods thrive. Conversations like these help inform thoughtful policy solutions that support entrepreneurship, expand economic opportunity, and ensure small businesses continue to succeed across our state.
Women and Girls in Science Day
In honor of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, I was proud to recognize the all-girls robotics team from Black Mountain Middle School, Tech Empire. Their participation in programs like the FIRST Tech Challenge highlights the creativity, teamwork, and technical skills that young students across our communities are developing through STEM education.
I had the opportunity to attend the San Diego FIRST Tech Challenge and cheer them on as they demonstrated their innovation and determination in competition. Experiences like these play an important role in encouraging more girls and young women to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Supporting and celebrating these students helps foster the next generation of innovators and leaders who will shape the future of our communities. 👩🔬🤖
To continue the recognition of International Day of Women and Girls in Science in AD76, I had the opportunity to attend the Novartis Biomedical Science groundbreaking event. The project represents an important investment in scientific research and innovation within our region. 🧬
As a research scientist, it is especially meaningful to see the biomedical sector continuing to grow here in San Diego County. Facilities like this help foster collaboration, drive discovery, and expand opportunities for students and professionals pursuing careers in science. Investments in spaces that support research and innovation also help create pathways for more women to participate and lead in the STEM fields. 🔬
Point-in-Time Count
#TeamPatel was honored to join Interfaith Community Services for the annual Point-in-Time Count, a countywide effort coordinated by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness. This important survey helps count individuals experiencing homelessness across the region and relies on the dedication of volunteers who help gather critical data in communities throughout San Diego County.
The information collected through the Point-in-Time Count helps inform how resources and services are allocated to better address homelessness and meet the needs of our communities. Thank you to Interfaith Community Services for hosting and to the many volunteers who participated in this important effort to support more effective, data-driven solutions.
Westview High School Engineering Building Opening
Earlier in February, it was a pleasure to return to Westview High School and see the new Engineering Building now open and available to students. The facility represents an important investment in hands-on learning and expanding opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
This project is especially meaningful, as it was one I had the opportunity to work on during my time serving on the Poway Unified School District Board. Resources like this play a vital role in supporting Career Technical Education programs and helping students develop practical skills that prepare them for college and future careers. Providing students with access to modern learning spaces ensures they have the tools and experiences needed to succeed in an evolving workforce.
Corina Martinez
Pioneer Elementary School
Escondido Union School District
I had the honor of recognizing Corina Martinez, a kindergarten teacher at Pioneer Elementary School in Escondido, as one of five educators named 2026 California Teachers of the Year by State Superintendent Tony Thurmond.
It was a pleasure to speak with her and connect with both past and present award recipients who have dedicated their careers to serving students across our state at the reception in Sacramento. Corina's commitment to her students and her community reflects the profound impact that dedicated educators have in ensuring every child feels supported, encouraged, and prepared to succeed.
| AD76 Internship Program: |
| Summer Intern Application Period Now Open |
Apply to be a Summer Intern!
The California State Assembly District Office Internship Program offers high school and college students a unique opportunity to participate in and experience the work of a state Assembly office. The program exposes students to district office operations and the activities of a legislator's work. These experiences include working with constituents, conducting community outreach efforts, assisting community-based organizations, organizing civic events and projects, database development and upkeep, staffing the office, and other activities.
Internships are available to those who are currently enrolled in high school or college. Depending on their high school or college programs, our office is willing to coordinate with a student's education institution for school credit for participating as an intern.
Many legislators and senior policy staff began their careers by interning in a district office. It is an incredible way to gain a true understanding of California's democratic process, as well as an excellent opportunity to make important contacts while serving the community.
Interns will gain valuable education and work experience by fully participating in agreed-upon hours of work. All internship work is voluntary and students will not receive any monetary compensation. Unpaid internships are available to all part-time or full time students. For college Students: Depending on their high school or college programs, students may also receive different types of school credits for participating as an intern.
If you are interested in participating in the 76th Assembly District Office Internship Program, simply complete the online application below.
As space becomes available, qualified candidates will be invited for an interview. Thank you for your interest in this very unique opportunity to serve your community.
Click below to apply to be a Summer Intern!
I had the honor of joining the House of India and the Federation of Indian Associations San Diego to celebrate the 77th Republic Day of India. The occasion commemorates the adoption of India's constitution and reflects a proud history shaped by sacrifice, resilience, and democratic ideals.
The celebration brought together community members to recognize and honor the rich cultural traditions and heritage of India. Moments like these remind us that staying connected to our roots and honoring the stories that shaped our communities helps strengthen the bonds that bring us together. I am grateful to the House of India and the Federation of Indian Associations San Diego for their continued leadership in creating spaces where the community can gather to celebrate culture, history, and shared traditions.
We were pleased to join community members in celebrating Lunar New Year and welcoming the Year of the Horse. This special occasion is a time to reflect on renewal, prosperity, and the rich cultural traditions that bring families and communities together. 🚩🐎
Our team was honored to take part in local celebrations and to join both the City of San Diego and the County of San Diego as they issued Lunar New Year proclamations. Events like these provide a meaningful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the cultural heritage and traditions that help make our communities so vibrant.
| 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 us by completing the Contact Me form on my website. We are here to help! We are proud to be open during hours that serve working people Monday through Friday.
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!
Please reach out to us!
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.
