A lifelong resident of Los Angeles, Gilbert Cedillo was elected as the State Senator from California's 22nd District, in November 2002 and is proud to represent the diverse cities of Los Angeles, Alhambra, Maywood, San Marino, South Pasadena, and Vernon. Prior to his election in the Senate, Gilbert Cedillo served his constituents as the Assemblyman of California's 46th District (1998-2002). His legislative record demonstrates his strong commitment to tackling tough issues and making real improvements in the day-to-day lives of the people he represents.
Senator Cedillo is committed to championing justice and equality for all people that live in California and has become a statewide leader for protecting the rights of working men and women; increasing and expanding access to health care; assimilating immigrants into California's social and economic fabric; devising regional solutions to combat homelessness and providing new economic development opportunities throughout the state and in his downtown Los Angeles District.
Senator Cedillo is steadfast in his pursuit of a progressive policy agenda that includes significant homeland security, civil rights and transportation legislation. Senator Cedillo recently reintroduced a homeland security and highway safety measure that would enable the State of California to comply with federal law by standardizing driver's licenses and processes used to issue them. Senator Cedillo's proposal would also create a separate driving-only license, distinctive in color or design, for undocumented workers who are ineligible to legalize their status.
Prior to being elected to the California Legislature, Senator Cedillo was the general manager of the county's employees' union and in that capacity is best known for championing worker's rights at a time of massive threatened layoffs, prohibiting the dismantling of the Los Angeles County public health system; protecting libraries and youth programs; and saving more than 25,000 local jobs. He also played a critical role in securing federal assistance to ensure that the Los Angeles County Health Care system remained financially afloat.
Senator Cedillo is a member of the Senate standing committees on Judiciary, Public Safety, Rules, Transportation and Housing. Senator Cedillo grew up in Boyle Heights, attended local schools, and graduated from UCLA in 1977.
