Hispanas Organized for Political Equality commends Governor Gavin Newsom for signing SB 702 into law

SACRAMENTO, CA，Oct 7 – HOPE (Hispanas Organized for Political Equality) commends Governor Gavin Newsom for signing SB 702 into law, a landmark piece of legislation authored by Senator Monique Limón and sponsored by HOPE. This new law increases transparency by requiring annual reports on the aggregate demographic data of statewide appointments made by the Governor and Legislature.

The passage of SB 702 into law marks the culmination of four years of dedicated advocacy to ensure that California’s boards and commissions, the decision-making bodies that shape critical policies across the state, reflect the communities they serve.

“We thank Governor Newsom for signing this landmark legislation into law and fulfilling his
2025 commitment to advance transparency at every level of government.” Said Helen Torres, CEO of HOPE.

“Since 2021, HOPE has worked alongside Senator Limón and her staff to champion this issue,
and her steadfast leadership and advocacy made this victory possible. We are deeply grateful
for her commitment and thank the Legislature for their bipartisan, unanimous call to action to get this signed. SB 702 will help ensure Californians from all communities have a voice at the decision-making table, laying the foundation for a more inclusive, representative, and resilient democracy in our state,” added Torres.

By 2028, the Governor’s Office and the Legislature will publish demographic reports of
appointees to statewide boards and commissions, making this information publicly available through dedicated websites. These sites will also provide details on vacancies and membership, allowing Californians to better understand and access opportunities to serve.

“Today, California is taking the necessary steps to bring transparency to our state boards and commissions and ensure that no matter who our governor is, the people will have the opportunity to know who is representing them,” said Senator Monique Limón.

“I am proud that 119 state elected officials, from both sides of the aisle, believe this
legislation helps identify applicants and ensure those appointed to leadership positions in the state reflect every region of California,” added Senator Limón.

HOPE recognizes the historic significance of this moment not only as a policy victory but as a testament to the power of collaboration, persistence, and shared commitment to fair and
open government. HOPE extends its gratitude to Senator Limón, the diverse coalition of over
45 statewide organizations, and the supermajority of legislators who supported SB 702. This
collective, multi-year effort demonstrates California’s commitment to ensuring all
communities are represented in positions of influence.

With SB 702 now law, HOPE will work with partners across California to ensure that communities know how to use this new information and explore pathways to serve on boards and commissions. By equipping leaders with knowledge and access, HOPE seeks to expand opportunities for Californians from every background to play a role in shaping state policy.

(HOPE) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization committed to ensuring political and economic parity for Latinas through leadership, advocacy, and education to benefit all communities and the status of women. HOPE® prepares and supports Latinas as civic leaders while providing inclusive leadership opportunities open to all who want to learn from the Latina perspective. We advance civic education, foster community leadership, and advocate for fair and informed policy solutions that expand opportunity for every community. HOPE programs and educational events are open to all individuals who support Latina leadership to strengthen our democracy and advance economic mobility. To learn more visit www.latinas.org.