California State Senate, District 15

Dave Cortese

https://davecortese.com

When I was a very young man, my grandfather told me, “You are working for your children now, and their children.” I didn’t understand at the time because I didn’t have children. But today I have taken his message to heart. I am working for the next generation and the generation after that. All children—not just my own.

1. Over 80% of voters polled say they want elected officials to prioritize children and families. What are the top three issues affecting our children and families and how will you make our region a place where all families can thrive?

   1. Affordable housing
   2. Public safety
   3. Mental Health
   I will continue to fight hard on behalf of children and families to secure legislation and budget augmentations to address their needs.
   

2. High quality childcare improves school readiness and parents' workforce participation. What will you do to improve access to high quality childcare and preschool programs in our diverse communities?

   I will continue to author, coauthor and support legislation and budget actions which close the gaps in childcare and school readiness.

3. Much of the student achievement gap has been linked to the opportunity gap that children in low-income families and children of color confront (e.g., lack of access to healthy food, preschool, tutors, and enrichment activities). If elected, what will you do to increase equity of opportunity?

   I am co-founder of a newly formed “equity caucus” with several other legislators. We are working to bring labor standards, good paying jobs, community benefits and justice reform to communities of color, low income and very low-income residents.

4. What steps will you take to improve inclusion and outcomes for children with disabilities and their families in our community?

   I have been a strong partner of San Andreas Region Center and Disability Rights California, successfully authoring legislation on inclusion, banning prone restraints in schools and other areas of concern.

5. If elected, how will you use the resources of your new role to improve children's well-being and access to mental and behavioral health services?

   I am appointed by the Senate Pro Tem to serve on the Mental Health Services Oversight Commission. I am a member of the Select Committee on Mental Health and a member of the Mental Health Caucus. I’ve authored numerous bills designed to improve access to behavioral health services, like SB999, and I will continue to do so.