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Va. Gov. Spanberger Statement on the Passing of Delegate Barry Knight
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following statement on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Spanberger Statement on the Passing of Delegate Barry Knight
Governor Abigail Spanberger today released the following statement on the passing of Delegate Barry Knight.
"For more than two decades, Delegate Barry Knight served Virginia Beach with distinction and quiet resolve at the local and state level. Adam and I are praying for his wife, Paula, and his sons, Hunter, Kyle, and Forest, as they mourn his passing.
"A born and raised Virginian, retired farmer,
... Show Full Article
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following statement on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Spanberger Statement on the Passing of Delegate Barry Knight
Governor Abigail Spanberger today released the following statement on the passing of Delegate Barry Knight.
"For more than two decades, Delegate Barry Knight served Virginia Beach with distinction and quiet resolve at the local and state level. Adam and I are praying for his wife, Paula, and his sons, Hunter, Kyle, and Forest, as they mourn his passing.
"A born and raised Virginian, retired farmer,and staunch advocate for our Commonwealth's agribusiness community, Delegate Knight personified what it means to be a citizen legislator. I will order the flag of the United States and the Virginia state flag to be lowered in his honor on the day of his interment.
"We wish his family and friends peace and comfort during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed in the General Assembly."
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Original text here: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2026/february-/name-1112899-en.html
Va. Gov. Spanberger Announces $20 Million for Housing Redevelopment Projects at Fort Monroe
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release on Feb. 18, 2026:
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Governor Spanberger Announces $20 Million for Housing Redevelopment Projects at Fort Monroe
The Projects Are Being Developed in Partnership with the Fort Monroe Authority & Echelon Resources Inc.
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HAMPTON, VA -- Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced that Echelon Resources Inc. -- a Virginia-based, family-owned real estate development firm -- will invest $20 million to redevelop two historic buildings into residential housing at Fort Monroe.
These projects will
... Show Full Article
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release on Feb. 18, 2026:
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Governor Spanberger Announces $20 Million for Housing Redevelopment Projects at Fort Monroe
The Projects Are Being Developed in Partnership with the Fort Monroe Authority & Echelon Resources Inc.
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HAMPTON, VA -- Governor Abigail Spanberger today announced that Echelon Resources Inc. -- a Virginia-based, family-owned real estate development firm -- will invest $20 million to redevelop two historic buildings into residential housing at Fort Monroe.
These projects willrehabilitate and adaptively reuse Fort Monroe's historic Post Hospital and Old Arsenal Building, creating at least 80 new units and increasing the supply of available housing in Hampton. The new $20 million investment builds on two existing redevelopment projects led by Echelon Resources Inc. at Fort Monroe, which have created 78 new apartments that will begin leasing next month. In total, Echelon Resources Inc. has committed to investing more than $35 million in sustainably redeveloping the Fort Monroe National Historic Landmark District.
"Across our Commonwealth, one of the things I hear most from Virginians is the need for more housing options," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. "This public-private partnership between the Fort Monroe Authority and Echelon Resources Inc. is exactly the kind of project that can increase the supply of housing in every corner of the Commonwealth. Not only does this continued investment work to address Virginia's housing shortage, but it does so in a really innovative and exciting way through adaptive reuse of historic buildings."
Governor Spanberger continued, "This is a long-term investment in Fort Monroe. The history at this site is important to Virginia's story -- as the first landing of enslaved Africans in North America -- and it is paramount that we make sure to treat this location with respect and dignity."
"Fort Monroe has a unique landscape, steeped in American history -- a place where preservation, conservation, and economic growth can work together to increase local options for housing," said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. "I look forward to working with Governor Spanberger and the entire cabinet on finding ways we can increase housing production at the state level. Today's announcement is an example of the type of collaboration we hope to see more of across the Commonwealth."
"Fort Monroe is truly one of Virginia's most historically significant places. Today, I am excited that we are celebrating Fort Monroe's latest chapter by embracing our history while also addressing one of our Commonwealth's most pressing issues -- access to housing," said Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources David Bulova. "Virginia's historic tax credit program is essential to creating these public-private partnerships and making a real difference in the lives of Virginia families."
"There's no better example of adaptive reuse than what we are seeing here at Fort Monroe," said Vice-Mayor Steven Brown, City of Hampton. "This project will preserve the history of this site, while at the same time, leveraging public-private partnerships so more Virginians can call this beautiful place home."
"Jane Jacobs said that the success of communities is when new ideas come to old buildings," said Fort Monroe Authority CEO Scott Martin. "Today we elevate that notion as Virginia, through this partnership, creates new family residences in a National Historic Landmark."
"These historic buildings have long predated us. And if we do our jobs right, then they will long outlast us," said Echelon Resources Inc. Owner Edwin Gaskin. "My role as developer is one of responsible steward. By breathing new life into these buildings, we can make sure Fort Monroe continues to serve as a home to Virginians for generations to come."
The Post Hospital, constructed in 1898 with later additions, served as Fort Monroe's primary military medical facility for decades. The adjacent Old Arsenal Building -- constructed circa 1860 following the destruction of the original post arsenal in 1855 -- is a Civil War-era masonry structure. Both projects will utilize the Virginia Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits Program that supports property owners who undertake the rehabilitation of historic buildings in compliance with the Secretary of Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
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BACKGROUND
Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia is a 565-acre National Historic Landmark and national monument where pivotal events in American history -- including the 1619 arrival of the first Africans in English North America and the 1861 Contraband Decision -- shaped the nation's story of freedom. Through a comprehensive Landscape Action Plan, the Fort Monroe Authority is guiding strategic investment in historic preservation, resilient infrastructure, and public access to strengthen the site's long-term sustainability, economic impact, and national and international significance.
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Original text here: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2026/february-/name-1112858-en.html
N.J. Gov. Sherrill Launches $5 Million World Cup Community Initiative
TRENTON, New Jersey, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Mikie Sherrill, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Sherrill Launches $5 Million World Cup Community Initiative
New NJEDA-Led Initiative Will Fund Fan Zones, Watch Parties, Festivals, and Street Fairs Across the Garden State in Partnership with the NY/NJ Host Committee
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TRENTON - Governor Mikie Sherrill today announced the launch of a new $5 million initiative to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026(TM) to every corner of New Jersey. The initiative, led by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority
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TRENTON, New Jersey, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Mikie Sherrill, D-New Jersey, issued the following news release on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Sherrill Launches $5 Million World Cup Community Initiative
New NJEDA-Led Initiative Will Fund Fan Zones, Watch Parties, Festivals, and Street Fairs Across the Garden State in Partnership with the NY/NJ Host Committee
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TRENTON - Governor Mikie Sherrill today announced the launch of a new $5 million initiative to bring the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026(TM) to every corner of New Jersey. The initiative, led by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority(NJEDA) in partnership with the FIFA World Cup 26 New York New Jersey Host Committee ("NYNJ Host Committee"), will support communities across the state in creating extraordinary fan experiences throughout the World Cup -- including during the tournament's historic Final -- while investing in small businesses, cultural associations, and community nonprofits.
"New Jersey is the beating heart of the 2026 World Cup, and this initiative makes sure that every New Jerseyan -- no matter where they live -- can be part of this once-in-a-generation moment," said Governor Sherrill. "From fan zones to neighborhood watch parties to street fairs, we are investing in the communities and small businesses that make New Jersey extraordinary. The World Cup is coming to our state -- and we are going to make sure it belongs to New Jerseyans first."
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About the Initiative
The initiative will support two distinct categories of World Cup programming statewide. First, it will fund major fan zone experiences strategically distributed throughout New Jersey, creating large-scale public viewing destinations for fans across the state. Second, it will provide targeted support for small and mid-sized community watch parties, festivals, and street fairs, ensuring that celebrations are accessible and locally rooted in communities of all sizes.
As part of this initiative, the Authority will prioritize supporting events that are high-impact, beneficial to small businesses, and reflective of the rich and diverse cultures that will be represented by competing World Cup nations -- many of which have deep roots in communities across New Jersey.
"The World Cup is an unparalleled opportunity to showcase New Jersey to the world and drive real economic impact for our businesses and communities," said Evan Weiss, CEO of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority. "This initiative is about more than soccer -- it's about making sure that the energy and investment generated by this global event flows directly to the small businesses, cultural organizations, and neighborhood nonprofits that are the backbone of our state. We look forward to sharing the details of these funding opportunities and partnering with communities across New Jersey to make this a World Cup to remember."
A Partnership Built for New Jersey
The initiative is being developed in close collaboration with the NYNJ Host Committee, which is leading the regional effort to prepare for and celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the tournament's Final, set to be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
"New Jersey will be at the center of the world's biggest sporting event, and we have a responsibility to make sure its benefits are felt statewide," said Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York New Jersey Host Committee. "Governor Sherrill's investment expands access, drives business activity in local communities, and ensures the World Cup delivers lasting economic impact across the state. This is exactly the kind of leadership and partnership that will make the World Cup transformative for this region."
This initiative is funded by previously appropriated Fiscal Year 2026 dollars. Pending approval by the EDA Board, more information about this initiative will be announced by the NJEDA and the Host Committee in the coming weeks. Organizations and community groups interested in learning more are encouraged to monitor the NJEDA's and the Host Committee's official communications for updates.
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Original text here: https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/2026/approved/20260219a.shtml
ICYMI: General Assembly Passes Gov. Spanberger's Entire 'Affordable Virginia Agenda' Ahead of Crossover
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: General Assembly Passes Governor Spanberger's Entire "Affordable Virginia Agenda" Ahead of Crossover
One month into her term, Governor Abigail Spanberger remains laser-focused on working with the General Assembly to make the Commonwealth more affordable for Virginia families who are feeling squeezed by high costs.
The Virginia House of Delegates or Senate have now passed every bill in the "Affordable Virginia Agenda" announced in December by Governor Spanberger and General Assembly
... Show Full Article
RICHMOND, Virginia, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Abigail Spanberger, D-Virginia, issued the following news release:
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ICYMI: General Assembly Passes Governor Spanberger's Entire "Affordable Virginia Agenda" Ahead of Crossover
One month into her term, Governor Abigail Spanberger remains laser-focused on working with the General Assembly to make the Commonwealth more affordable for Virginia families who are feeling squeezed by high costs.
The Virginia House of Delegates or Senate have now passed every bill in the "Affordable Virginia Agenda" announced in December by Governor Spanberger and General Assemblyleaders -- with more than half of bills passing with bipartisan support.
"Back in December, we announced the Affordable Virginia Agenda to make clear our overarching, unrelenting focus on making Virginia more affordable for all of our neighbors. Over the past few weeks, I've been encouraged to see so many of these proposals pass with broad support from across the political spectrum," said Governor Abigail Spanberger. "High costs impact all Virginians -- regardless of their political affiliation. I will continue to work with legislators from both parties to find commonsense solutions to drive down costs for Virginia families, and I look forward to signing every piece of our Affordable Virginia Agenda into law."
Governor Spanberger is also using the full power of her office to lower costs for Virginians. On her first day as Governor, she signed executive orders to start building a stronger, more affordable future for all Virginians -- including by directing her cabinet secretaries and all executive branch agencies to quickly identify ways to reduce costs for families. Governor Spanberger also made clear in her first joint address to the General Assembly that she will work with anyone -- from either party -- to drive down costs.
See below for the full list of "Affordable Virginia Agenda" legislation passed by the Virginia House of Delegates or Senate:
* HB2 (Del. Carr), SB72 (Sen. Srinivasan) -- Reducing heating and energy costs for Virginians who need it most
* HB3 (Del. LeVere Bolling), SB5 (Sen. Locke) -- Establishing a Virginia Weatherization Task Force to improve energy efficiency
* HB4 (Del. Bennett-Parker) -- Empowering localities to preserve and protect the long-term availability of affordable housing
* HB15 (Del. Price), SB48 (Sen. Rouse) -- Improving protections for Virginia renters
* HB220 (Del. Hope), SB630 (Sen. Carroll Foy) -- Eliminating additional fees on healthcare premiums
* HB395 (Del. Krizek), SB250 (Sen. Surovell) -- Facilitate the adoption of portable small solar systems to lower energy costs
* HB434 (Del. LeVere Bolling), SB621 (Sen. Srinivasan) -- Optimizing grid utilization to get more out of the current distribution system
* HB527 (Del. McClure) SB628 (Sen. Locke) -- Keeping Virginians in their homes by expanding the Virginia Eviction Reduction Program pilot program
* HB736 (Del. Maldonado) -- Preventing costly delays in care by limiting prior authorizations
* HB815 (Del. Downey), SB405 (Sen. Lucas) -- Increasing access to quality, affordable care by investing in the healthcare workforce
* HB820 (Del. Helmer), SB490 (Sen. VanValkenburg) -- Creating a revolving loan fund for the production of mixed-income housing development
* HB830 (Del. Callsen), SB669 (Sen. Rouse) -- Stopping predatory middlemen from hiking up the cost of prescription drugs
* HB867 (Del. Cousins), SB74 (Sen. McPike) -- Giving every community the opportunity to adopt an affordable housing program
* HB892 (Del. Shin) -- Improving forecasting of power usage to avoid overestimates that cause higher prices
* HB895 (Del. Sullivan), SB448 (Sen. Bagby) -- Increasing the deployment of energy storage to lower peak prices for ratepayers
* HB1227 (Del. Thomas), SB729 (Sen. Jones) -- Leveraging the Commonwealth's bonding authority to support affordable housing
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Original text here: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2026/february-/name-1112861-en.html
Calif. Gov. Newsom Signs Legislation Authorizing $590 Million Emergency Loan to Bay Area Transit
SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Newsom signs legislation authorizing $590 million emergency loan to Bay Area Transit
Financing protects service for hundreds of thousands while region works toward November 2026 ballot measure
What you need to know: California is stepping in to provide stability for the Bay Area Transit service, while ridership rebounds and agencies advance long-term budget solutions amid unprecedented pandemic-related disruptions. The $590 million loan will help BART, Muni,
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Newsom signs legislation authorizing $590 million emergency loan to Bay Area Transit
Financing protects service for hundreds of thousands while region works toward November 2026 ballot measure
What you need to know: California is stepping in to provide stability for the Bay Area Transit service, while ridership rebounds and agencies advance long-term budget solutions amid unprecedented pandemic-related disruptions. The $590 million loan will help BART, Muni,Caltrain, and AC Transit maintain reliable service as the region works toward long-term funding stability.
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COLMA - Governor Gavin Newsom, alongside state and community leaders, today signed AB/SB 117, authorizing the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) to loan $590 million to the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). The Bay Area Transit Loans measure will support and stabilize Bay Area transit services as the region continues emerging from the impacts of the pandemic and ridership continues to rebound.
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California is stepping up to support Bay Area transit--this agreement will help protect transit service for more than three million monthly riders. The benefits of a strong transit system are clear: growing ridership, cleaner air, and less congested roads. I'm proud of the progress the Bay Area transit service and operators are making on ridership recovery, and this loan will continue to build on that success as the region works together on long-term funding solutions.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
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"Our public transit connects people to jobs, schools, healthcare and opportunity," said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. "This $590 million emergency loan helps ensure Bay Area communities continue to have reliable service as ridership returns and the region works towards a long-term funding solution. "We're committed to keeping transit strong for the riders that depend on it every day."
"Transit is essential for the Bay Area's future, and we must protect it and do everything in our power to avert devastating service cuts," said State Senator Scott Wiener. "This loan will avert a traffic catastrophe and save millions of Bay Area transit riders from losing their ride to work, family, and school. We spent much of the past year negotiating this loan with regional stakeholders and the Governor, and I'm immensely proud that we got it over the finish line. This is the latest in a yearslong effort to shore up funding for our transit systems and make them even cleaner, safer, and more reliable than ever. While there is more work to do, today's announcement is a major win for securing a bright future for Bay Area public transit and the millions who rely on it every day."
"This is a major victory for our region's transit operators, workers, and the communities that depend on public transit to get to work and school," said State Senator Jesse Arreguin. "I want to thank the Governor, my colleagues in the Legislature, and the many advocates who supported this effort to ensure the Bay Area can continue to be an economic engine to the state, while also advancing our efforts to fight climate change."
"As Chair of the Bay Area Caucus, I know how important this funding is, and I'm grateful for all my colleagues who helped with this agreement," said State Senator Josh Becker. "I've long pushed to improve our transit in the Bay Area and move toward a seamless system and have seen much progress recently. Caltrain ridership is up 50 percent since electrification, BART has seen record high scores for safety, cleanliness, timeliness, and overall satisfaction, and more across our system. Public transit is a public good that so many rely on, and this funding will help us continue to make improvements and bridge us to a bright transit future in the Bay Area."
"As Chair of the Assembly Transportation Committee, I commend Governor Gavin Newsom for signing AB 117 into law today," said Assemblywoman Lori D. Wilson. "This responsible and temporary measure demonstrates California's ongoing commitment to providing safe, reliable public transportation. BART, as well as MUNI, Caltrain, and AC Transit, are vital assets for the entire Bay Area, playing a key role in advancing our state's climate goals and reducing congestion on our roads and highways."
"San Francisco's recovery is essential to the success of our region and our state--and our city cannot continue its comeback without a safe, reliable transit system," said San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie. "With the signing of this bridge loan, we are securing necessary resources to sustain our recovery and ensure transit systems can continue serving the families, seniors, students, and workers who rely on them every day. We're already delivering greater accountability and efficiency for Muni, and ridership is continuing to climb toward pre-pandemic levels. Thank you to Governor Newsom for your commitment to our city and region's recovery, and to our partners at MTC and in the state legislature who worked to deliver this critical support."
"This bill is a big win for the Bay Area. It keeps the transit system running smoothly next year--supporting more than 900,000 daily trips--so people can keep getting to work, school, family, friends, and events without disruption," said Metropolitan Transportation Commission Chair Sue Noack. "And for those who don't take transit, it means we avoid a surge of cars on the road and all the congestion that would come with it."
Ridership recovery and regional progress
Like transit systems across the country, BART, Muni, Caltrain, and AC Transit were hit hard by the pandemic--but all four operators have made strong progress in rebuilding ridership in recent years.
This emergency loan is structured as a bridge to support agencies while the region pursues a long-term funding solution through a potential November 2026 regional sales tax measure authorized through the enactment of Senate Bill 63 (Wiener, 2025). If approved by voters, that measure would provide new operating funding beginning in July 2027. This financing will help cover operating deficits and advance a strong, reliable, and financially resilient transit system.
Loan structure and accountability
MTC would use the loan proceeds to provide short-term operating loans to four Bay Area transit operators and repay the loan in quarterly installments to CalSTA over a period of 12 years, with interest-only payments during the first two years.
Key provisions include:
* Authorizes MTC to use the proceeds of the loan to offer loans to transit entities within the Bay Area region for public transit operating purposes.
* Requires MTC to repay the loan in quarterly installments to CalSTA over a period of 12 years, with interest-only payments during the first two years.
Requires MTC to secure repayment of any loan issued by CalSTA by pledging the State Transit Assistance Program revenues received by transit entities.
* Directs CalSTA to work with MTC to ensure there are no impacts on existing capital projects.
* Requires the California Transportation Commission to monitor and report to CalSTA on the unallocated and unexpended balances of the region's project awards for the TIRCP.
* Authorizes MTC, in coordination with CalSTA, to prioritize the use of existing sources of funds allocated by the state to the region so that projects are not materially impacted with regard to scope, schedule, and eligibility for non-state funding.
* The loan carries an interest rate that reflects the interest rate of the state's Surplus Money Investment Fund (SMIF) to ensure the general fund will not lose out on interest income.
The governor has also announced that he has signed AB 107 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D - Encino) - Budget Acts of 2023, 2024, and 2025.
For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/02/19/governor-newsom-signs-legislation-authorizing-590-million-emergency-loan-to-bay-area-transit/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Awards $107 Million to Prevent Gun Violence and Improve Community Safety Across State
SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Newsom awards $107 million to prevent gun violence and improve community safety across state
Stopping over 30,000 incidents of violence since 2019
What you need to know: Governor Newsom is announcing $107 million in violence prevention grants to 42 communities across California to prevent gun violence, bringing the state's total investment to more than $350 million since 2019.
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With the most recent data showing that violent crime is down 12% in California's
... Show Full Article
SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release on Feb. 19, 2026:
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Governor Newsom awards $107 million to prevent gun violence and improve community safety across state
Stopping over 30,000 incidents of violence since 2019
What you need to know: Governor Newsom is announcing $107 million in violence prevention grants to 42 communities across California to prevent gun violence, bringing the state's total investment to more than $350 million since 2019.
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With the most recent data showing that violent crime is down 12% in California'smajor cities, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that an additional $107 million is being awarded to communities to prevent gun violence and reduce crime. With 42 grants to cities, counties, community-based organizations, and tribal governments across California, this funding, known as the California Violence Intervention and Prevention (CalVIP) Grant Program, will support proven, community-driven strategies to reduce shootings, homicides, and retaliatory violence.
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Public safety is as much about prevention as it is about enforcing the law. CalVIP invests in people and neighborhoods that have been disproportionately impacted by gun violence. We're supporting trusted community leaders who step in before a trigger is pulled -- interrupting cycles of harm, saving lives, and creating real pathways to opportunity.
- Governor Gavin Newsom
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Enacted in 2019, the state's total investment for the CalVIP Program is more than $350 million, stopping more than 30,000 incidents of violence before they happened, as reported by grantees. In addition, these grants in total have helped more than 18,500 participants complete violence intervention programs.
This fifth round of funding that's being awarded supports programs that include trauma-informed intervention, credible messenger street outreach, wraparound services for families at risk, and intensive case management for youth and adults most impacted by violence.
Funding that matters
For the first time, CalVIP is largely funded through the Gun Violence Prevention and School Safety Act, using fees collected from firearm and ammunition retail sales -- up to the first $75 million annually -- to reinvest directly into the communities most affected by violence. This is the first cohort funded from the new funding source and the fifth cohort overall.
These efforts, which are administered by the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC), are not only reducing violence -- they are strengthening families, stabilizing neighborhoods, and helping individuals build safer, more productive futures.
"CalVIP funding is helping communities most affected by violence achieve measurable progress," said BSCC Board Chair Linda Penner. "Many are experiencing reductions in violent crime, while individuals are being supported in ways that foster positive life outcomes and build stronger neighborhoods, schools, and families."
Proven results
CalVIP has helped communities achieve measurable results:
* 18,679 participants successfully completed CalVIP-funded programs
* 30,230 incidents of violence were interrupted
* Thousands of individuals received job placement support, counseling, education services, and mentorship
The impact is measurable in reduced crime. Most recently, the Major Cities Chiefs Association put out its latest crime data, covering large cities in the US for all of 2025. Compared to 2024, violent crime across California cities was down 12%, with double-digit drops in homicide (18%) and robbery (19%).
Compared to 2019 (the last pre pandemic year), violent crime across the same large California city police departments tracked in the MCCA year end surveys is down about 12% in 2025 -- driven by robberies down about 29% and homicides down about 12%.
Not every major jurisdiction is seeing California's same results: violent crime increased in Atlanta (+17%), with robbery up (+27%), and homicides rose in El Paso (+25%) and Omaha (+37%).
Local impact across California
Previous grantees are again being awarded CalVIP funding to continue making positive impacts in their communities.
Los Angeles: Homeboy Industries engaged individuals at the highest risk of gun violence through intensive, evidence-based case management and paid work-therapy. During the fourth round of grant funding, Homeboy Industries has demonstrated how dignity, stability, and opportunity can drive long-term public safety:
* 582 successful program exits
* 1,125 positive participant outcomes, including employment gains and reduced high-risk behavior
"CalVIP funding affirms what we have always known at Homeboy Industries: that dignity is the foundation of public safety. By investing in those most impacted by violence, we interrupt harm at its roots and have helped contribute to some of the lowest violent crime rates our region has seen in decades," said Homeboy Industries Co-CEOs Shirley Torres and Steve Delgado. "Through paid work-therapy, trauma-informed care, and leadership from people with lived experience, we create pathways to stability, belonging, and contribution to the over 10,000 people who walk through our doors each year. We are grateful for the leadership of Gavin Newsom and our State Legislators for proving that prevention works -- and that compassion and accountability can move together."
Stockton: The city's Office of Violence Prevention expanded its nationally recognized Operation Ceasefire model to youth ages 12-17 using CalVIP support. Stockton has directly served 568 high-risk youth and adults, strengthening focused deterrence, credible messenger outreach, and trauma-informed wraparound services. Stockton's efforts are improving the lives of its residents by empowering those who grew up around the gang culture to realize their potential and change their lives through the city's proactive Operation Ceasefire initiative.
"CalVIP funding is vital to sustaining and advancing Stockton's locally driven violence-prevention and gang-reduction efforts," said Stockton's Office of Violence Prevention Lora M. Larson. "With Cohort 5, we will build on this progress by increasing our reach and expanding school-based violence prevention, embedding violence prevention staff and support services directly on campuses to identify and intervene early with youth at elevated risk of victimization or involvement in violence."
Richmond: CalVIP funding has been integral to the success of the city's Office of Neighborhood Safety programs, including the Street Resource and Outreach strategic initiative. Through their Peacemaker Fellowship, Richmond has helped change the lives of many participants. In fact, an evaluation of Richmond's Cohort 3 grant indicated a variety of successful outcomes through its innovative program, including the development of prosocial behaviors in the 396 youth they served, including the furtherance of critical conflict resolution skills. And, as a Cohort 4 grantee, the city reported 86 successful program participants with 262 episodes of violence interrupted.
"The City of Richmond has been a recipient of CalVIP since 2007. This long-term investment from the state has been crucial in our city's strategy to reduce gun violence and related injuries and deaths," said Richmond's Office of Neighborhood Safety Deputy Director Sam Vaughn. "In 2007 the City of Richmond recorded 47 homicides and 242 shootings with a surviving victim. Last year we had 5 homicides and 32 shootings with a surviving victim. That was the lowest amount of homicides Richmond has seen since we started keeping records. Sustainable funding is critical to this work being successful and CalVIP's continued support and belief in the work being done in Richmond proves just that."
Bakersfield: Through partnerships with community-based organizations, the city of Bakersfield's Office of Violence Prevention has partnered with several community-based organizations and other agencies to positively impact their community through mentoring, gang intervention, outreach, mental health services, and other coordinated responses. An evaluation of their Cohort 3 grant highlighted their program's successful approach, and the impact was clear -- the city, once plagued by some of the highest homicide rates in the state, reported a 57% drop in homicides and 60% fewer shootings in 2024.
"The CalVIP program has made Bakersfield a safer community. Through the work of prior grant awards, we saw a 70% reduction in shootings and homicides," said Bakersfield City Manager Christian Clegg. "With that foundation in place, this new cohort will not only allow our community partners to enhance this critical work but also allow our research partners to inform the field on best practices that correlate to both community-wide reductions and individual client outcomes. The CalVIP program is advancing best practices that can benefit all communities."
CalVIP was established in 2017 and strengthened by Assembly Bill 762 (2023). The program reflects California's public health approach to violence prevention -- recognizing that lasting safety comes from addressing trauma, economic instability, and cycles of retaliation before they escalate.
A full list of award recipients is available here (https://www.bscc.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Attachment-F-2-CalVIP-Funding-Recommendations_Final.pdf).
Investing in California's public safety
While Republicans in Congress pushed their "big beautiful betrayal" bill, cutting funding to vital public safety programs, California demonstrated what real public safety looks like: serious investments, strong enforcement, and real results. California has invested $2.1 billion since 2019 to fight crime, help local governments hire more police, and improve public safety.
In 2024, Governor Newsom signed into law the most significant bipartisan legislation to crack down on property crime in modern California history. Building on the state's robust laws and record public safety funding, these bipartisan bills offer new tools to bolster ongoing efforts to hold criminals accountable for smash-and-grab robberies, property crime, retail theft, and auto burglaries. While California's crime rate remains at near-historic lows, these laws help the state adapt to evolving criminal tactics, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.
In 2023, as part of California's Public Safety Plan, the Governor announced the largest-ever investment to combat organized retail crime in state history, an annual 310% increase in proactive operations targeting organized retail crime, and special operations across the state to fight crime and improve public safety.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/02/19/governor-newsom-awards-107-million-to-prevent-gun-violence-and-improve-community-safety-across-state/
Calif. Gov. Newsom Announces Judicial Appointments
SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
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Governor Newsom announces judicial appointments
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Justice Joanne Motoike as Presiding Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three, Judge Stephen Goorvitch as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Two, and Judge Amy Guerra as Associate Justice of the Fifth District Court of Appeal.
The Governor also announced his appointment of seven Superior Court Judges: one
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SACRAMENTO, California, Feb. 20 -- Gov. Gavin Newsom, D-California, issued the following news release:
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Governor Newsom announces judicial appointments
Governor Gavin Newsom announced his nomination of three Court of Appeal Justices: Justice Joanne Motoike as Presiding Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three, Judge Stephen Goorvitch as Associate Justice of the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Two, and Judge Amy Guerra as Associate Justice of the Fifth District Court of Appeal.
The Governor also announced his appointment of seven Superior Court Judges: onein Contra Costa County, two in Los Angeles County, one in Riverside County, one in San Francisco County, and two in Santa Clara County.
Second District Court of Appeal, Division Two
Stephen Goorvitch, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as an Associate Justice in the Second District Court of Appeal, Division Two. Goorvitch has served as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court since 2015. He served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney at the U.S. Attorney's Office, Central District of California from 2007 to 2015. He was Counsel at O'Melveny and Myers from 2003 to 2007. Goorvitch served as a law clerk in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit from 2002 to 2003 and in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California from 2001 to 2002. He served as a Staff Attorney in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from 1998 to 2001. Goorvitch received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Judith T. Ashmann-Gerst. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Francis Rothschild. Goorvitch is a Democrat.
Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three
Joanne Motoike, of Orange County, has been appointed to serve as the Presiding Justice of the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three. Motoike has served as an Associate Justice in the Fourth District Court of Appeal, Division Three since 2022. Motoike served as a Judge in the Orange County Superior Court from 2013 to 2022. She served as a Senior Deputy Public Defender at the Orange County Public Defender's Office from 2008 to 2013. Motoike worked as a Trial Attorney at the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal from 2006 to 2008. She served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Orange County Public Defender's Office from 1994 to 2006. Motoike received a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Presiding Justice Kathleen E. O'Leary. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Manuel Ramirez. Motoike is a Democrat.
Fifth District Court of Appeal
Amy Guerra, of Fresno County, has been appointed to serve as an Associate Justice of the Fifth District Court of Appeal. Guerra has served as a Judge in the Fresno County Superior Court since 2018. Guerra worked as the Chief Defense Attorney at the Fresno County Alternate Defense Office from 2014 to 2018, where she also worked as an Associate from 2007 to 2014. Guerra received a Juris Doctor degree from the San Joaquin College of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Justice Bruce Smith. This position requires confirmation by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, which consists of Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and Senior Presiding Justice Brad Hill. Guerra is a Democrat.
The compensation for each of these positions is $280,052
Contra Costa Superior Court
Carole Bosch, of Alameda County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Contra Costa County Superior Court. Bosch has served as an Administrative Law Judge at the California Unemployment Insurance Appeals Board since 2021. She worked as a Supervising Attorney at Hildebrand, McLeod & Nelson from 2017 to 2021. Bosch worked as a Partner at Minnard Bosch from 2016 to 2017. She worked as an attorney at Kazan McClain Satterley & Greenwood from 2013 to 2016 and at Farrise Law Firm from 2012 to 2013. Bosch was a Partner at Paul and Hanley from 2007 to 2011. She served as an Annual Attorney at the California Supreme Court in 2007. She worked as a Clerk at Hersh & Hersh from 2005 to 2007. Bosch received a Juris Doctor degree from Golden Gate University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Patricia Scanlon. Bosch is a Democrat.
Los Angeles Superior Court
Victoria Shapiro, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Shapiro has served as a Commissioner at the Los Angeles County Superior since 2026. She served as the Lead Judicial Attorney at the Second District Court of Appeal since 2021, where she also served as a Senior Judicial Attorney from 2016 to 2021 and as a Judicial Attorney from 2015 to 2016. Shapiro worked as an Associate at Arnold & Porter from 2002 to 2010. She worked as the Vice President and General Counsel at The Brain Technologies Corporation from 2000 to 2002. Shapiro worked as an Associate at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher from 1998 to 2000 and as an Associate at Covington & Burling from 1996 to 1998. She received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Virginia School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Patrick T. Madden. Shapiro is a Democrat.
Anastasia Zykanova, of Orange County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Zykanova has served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Orange County Public Defender's Office since 2018. She served as a Deputy Public Defender at the Kern County Public Defender's Office in 2018. Zykanova worked as an Associate at Ferentino & Associates from 2012 to 2017. Zykanova received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Ana Luna. Zykanova is a Democrat.
Riverside Superior Court
Thanh Ngo, of Riverside County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Riverside County Superior Court. Ngo has served as a Deputy District Attorney at the San Bernardino District Attorney's Office since 2023. He worked as a Field Counsel at Liberty Mutual Insurance from 2022 to 2023. Ngo served as the Assessment Appeal Policy Director at the Alameda County Assessor's Office from 2020 to 2021. He worked as a Trial Attorney at TDN Law Group from 2013 to 2019. Ngo served as a Deputy District Attorney at the Santa Clara District Attorney's Office from 2006 to 2013. He served as an Assistant District Attorney at the Santa Cruz District Attorney's Office from 2001 to 2005. He worked as an Associate at Terra Law from 2000 to 2001. Ngo served as an Assistant District Attorney at the San Francisco District Attorney's Office from 1996 to 2000. He worked as an Echoing Green Fellow at the Asian Law Caucus from 1994 to 1996. Ngo received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California Los Angeles, School of Law. Effective March 24, 2026, he fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Kira K. Klatchko. Ngo is a Democrat.
San Francisco Superior Court
Matthew Kahn, of San Francisco County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the San Francisco County Superior Court. Kahn has worked as a Partner at Gibson Dunn & Crutcher since 2013, where he worked as an associate from 2004 to 2013. Kahn received a Juris Doctor degree from Stanford University School of Law. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Mary E. Wiss. Kahn is a Democrat.
Santa Clara Superior Court
Karen Schulz, of San Mateo County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Schulz has served as an Immigration Judge at the U.S. Department of Justice, Executive Office for Immigration Review since 2021. She worked as Executive Director and Managing Attorney at Step Forward Foundation from 2015 to 2021. Schulz was the owner of the Law Office of Karen Schulz from 2010 to 2018. She received a Juris Doctor degree from the Santa Clara University School of Law. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Julianne Sylva. Schulz is a Democrat.
Carl Chamberlin, of San Francisco County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Santa Clara County Superior Court. Chamberlin has served as the Lead Appellate Court Attorney at the First District Court of Appeal, First Appellate District since 1999. He served as an Acting Assistant District Attorney at the San Francisco District Attorney's Office in 1992. Chamberlin worked as an Associate and Of Counsel at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe from 1985 to 1999. Chamberlin received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco. He fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Drew Takaichi. Chamberlin is a Democrat.
The compensation for each of these positions is $244,727.
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Original text here: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/02/19/governor-newsom-announces-judicial-appointments-2-19-2026/
