Starting Sept. 11, California Assemblymember Warren Furutani takes over as the new Chair of the Asian Pacific Islander (API) Legislative Caucus in Sacremento. Founded just nine years ago, it's the second largest ethnic Caucus in the California legislature. From an email Warren just sent us:

"I look forward to increasing the impact of the API Leg Caucus on state policy and state politics. '010 is a critical year for our communities relative to the Census, upcoming state elections, and our continued empowerment".

Warren takes over the two-year term from Assemblymember Ted Lieu. He'll be joined by Assemblymember Mary Hayashi who takes over as the newly created position of Vice Chair. Currently, the membership of the Caucus is at an all-time high with 9 Assemblymembers and 2 State Senators, of which, 10 are Democrats and 1 Republican.

From Warren's monthly newsletter:

"I look forward to serving as Chair of the API Legislative Caucus," said Warren. "The Caucus has played a critical role as it relates to statewide policy and legislation and I hope to continue that momentum."   

 

The API Legislative Caucus was established in 2001 with the mission of representing and advocating for the interests of the diverse API communities of California.  It currently enjoys an historic high number of membership (9 assemblymembers and 2 state senators).

 We wish Warren and the rest of the Caucus best of luck. (Well, at least the progressive members.)