Flood Management Infrastructure Prioritized in Revised Budget Proposal

$40 Million for San Joaquin River Floodplain Restoration Receives Crucial Support

SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) applauded the Governor’s inclusion of $40 million for the San Joaquin River Floodplain restoration in his revised budget proposal.

Bill aims to ease truck driver shortage

CHICO, Calif. — Lawmakers are trying to ease the ongoing truck driver shortage with a new bill.

Under AB 376, introduced by San Joaquin Valley Democrat Carlos Villapudua, Cal Grant C would become open for students enrolled in entry-level driver training program. Lawmakers say programs can be costly and they don't currently qualify for the Cal Grant because they're typically less than four months in length.

Villapudua says he not only wants to attract prospective drivers, but dispel truck driver stereotypes.

Regional Transit Project Receives Major Funding Boost

Valley Link Rail Project Awarded $25 Million to Advance Development

San Joaquin Valley – The California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) announced on Monday the award of $25 million to the Tri-Valley – San Joaquin Valley Regional Rail Authority for the Valley Link Rail Project.

Lawmakers propose $4.5B flood protection bond measure

CHICO, Calif. — Californians could be voting on a major flood protection bond next November.

State lawmakers are pushing a $4.5 billion bond measure which would help fund water infrastructure projects across the state. The bill's author, San Joaquin Valley Democratic Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua, said the language is not yet set in stone, but that funds from the bond would go to the Department of Water Resources (DWR).