The California State Assembly convened on June 30, 2025, to discuss key budget-related legislation, including Senate Bill 129 and Senate Bill 131, both aimed at addressing pressing issues such as labor support and housing affordability.

Assemblymember Gabriel introduced Senate Bill 129, known as the labor trailer bill, which proposes various technical adjustments to the 2025 budget act. Notable provisions include authorization for supplemental pension payments to the public employees retirement fund and an allocation of $3.3 million for statewide collective bargaining for in-home supportive service (IHSS) providers. The bill also creates an exemption for the Golden Gate Suspension Bridge seismic retrofit project to prevent costly overruns. Assemblymember Haney expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing its importance in strengthening the IHSS program, which provides essential care for the elderly and disabled. He highlighted the bill's role in establishing a fair labor structure for over 700,000 IHSS workers in California.

Following a brief debate, the Assembly voted on SB 129, which passed with 56 votes in favor and 4 against, signaling a strong legislative commitment to supporting labor initiatives.

Next, Assemblymember Gabriel presented Senate Bill 131, a public resources and housing trailer bill aimed at tackling housing affordability and homelessness. This bill allocates $500 million for the Homeless Housing Assistance and Prevention (HAP) program and seeks to expedite housing development while balancing environmental protections. However, Assemblymember Gonzalez requested an amendment to address concerns regarding the housing-first provision, arguing that it does not adequately address the complexities of homelessness.

The Assembly then voted on a procedural motion to lay the proposed amendments on the table, which passed with 43 votes in favor and 19 against. Assemblymember Macedo voiced support for SB 131 while expressing reservations about certain provisions, particularly regarding the high-speed rail project and the distribution of funds to rural communities. He emphasized the need for accountability in spending taxpayer dollars.

Assemblymember Muratsuchi raised concerns about environmental protections, particularly regarding categorical exemptions for advanced manufacturing facilities included in SB 131. He noted opposition from over 100 environmental organizations and labor groups, urging the need for revisions to protect California's environmental standards.

The discussions highlighted the Assembly's ongoing efforts to address critical issues facing the state, including labor rights and housing challenges, while also revealing divisions over environmental concerns and the effectiveness of proposed solutions. The meeting concluded with a call for further dialogue and potential amendments to ensure that the legislation meets the diverse needs of California's communities.