The 2019 legislative session adjourned on Friday, Sept. 13, and this year, state Sen. Ben Allen (D-Santa Monica) championed issues of election integrity, consumer safety, student debt, religious discrimination and barriers to affordable housing, among many others. In total, nine of Allen’s bills were approved by the Legislature, and Gov. Gavin Newsom has already signed three of them into law. Following passage in the Legislature, the governor has 30 days to determine the fate of a bill.

“I am proud of what we were able to accomplish this year for District 26 and for the state as a whole,” Allen said. “From elections to health and the environment, our momentum in this legislative cycle has been tremendously encouraging. I am hopeful that the governor will be quick to approve the bills of mine still awaiting his signature.”

Allen’s Senate Bill 652, affectionately coined the “Mezuzah Bill,” protects against religious discrimination, ensuring that renters and owners are allowed to display religious items on doors and doorframes. Newsom signed it into law on July 30.

SB 677 prohibits the use of latex gloves in restaurants, as there are less costly alternatives available. Seven other states already have such restrictions in place to protect consumers and workers with latex allergies. Newsom signed it into law on Sept. 5.

SB 641 expands the special election window to better allow for special elections to coincide with state or local elections within the same territory, decreasing the number of costly, low-turnout elections. Newsom signed it into law on Sept. 20.

Six of Allen’s bills that were approved by the Legislature await the governor’s signature. In addition, Allen is still working on two bills and two constitutional amendments. Allen said his efforts will continue into the coming year.