A Note From Tom Umberg: 

This month was a busy month both on the Senate floor and in committee! 

I had the opportunity to honor Laotian Vietnam War veterans and members of the Hmong and Lao Special Guerilla Units for their extraordinary contributions during the Vietnam War.

These veterans played a critical role alongside U.S. forces, often at great personal risk and with lasting impacts on their communities. As a veteran myself, this recognition is deeply meaningful. These individuals fought bravely in support of American efforts abroad, and it is long overdue that we formally acknowledge their service and ensure their legacy is honored.

As Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, we have heard a significant number of bills this session, including measures to better protect children from the harms of social media and the growing impacts of artificial intelligence. The committee has also taken on issues ranging from consumer protection and public safety to broader challenges around privacy and emerging technologies.

In addition to my work in Judiciary, I’ve also worked to advance important measures through the Senate Privacy Committee, focused on strengthening data protections, increasing transparency, and ensuring that as technology evolves, our laws keep pace to safeguard people’s rights.

There is still much work ahead, but I remain focused on delivering thoughtful, effective policies that make a real difference for our communities.

Legislative Update 

SB 884 - ”Protect Our Polls Act” continues to build momentum, recently advancing out of both the Senate Judiciary and Elections Committees.

This legislation strengthens election protections and helps ensure voters can cast their ballots safely and without interference. At a time when efforts to undermine confidence in our democratic process and fears that Trump may try to rig the midterms are at an all-time high, we know these safeguards matter more than ever. 

Alongside SB 46 - “No Kings: Elections Qualifications Act”, we are taking concrete steps to protect the vote here in California. 

In the News

• LA Times Daily Pilot - State will audit controversial actions of O.C. Ed Board, whose members say, bring it
• OC Register - State senator gets audit launched of Orange County Board of Education’s governance and litigation decisions
• Calmatters - We went to court to unseal the warrants behind Sheriff Chad Bianco’s ballot seizures. What they reveal
• Imperial Valley Press - California lawmakers launch first-ever bipartisan veterans caucus
  
   

District Update

This month, our district team connected with over 30 organizations and community members, recognized more than 130 individuals, and assisted seven constituents with issues involving state agencies.

If you or someone you know is having difficulty navigating a state agency, whether it’s accessing benefits or resolving an issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. My team is always here to help.

EVENT

Little Arabia Mural Unveiling

The community unveiled our district’s newest landmark, the Little Arabia Mural. After a year of research, community input, and collaboration between professional artists and Magnolia High School art students, the mural now welcomes friends, family and visitors to Orange County’s Little Arabia community.

Located on the wall of Al Karmel Meat Market on Brookhurst, the mural reflects the history, culture and future of not only Little Arabia, but the broader Arab American diaspora.

EVENT

Mendez Freedom Trail Dedication Ceremony

Team Umberg attended the dedication ceremony for the Mendez Freedom Trail, recognizing the landmark civil rights case Mendez et al. v. Westminster. The two-mile trail along Hoover Street will feature interactive signage highlighting the case and its impact not only in Orange County and California, but across the nation.

While the trail is outside of SD 34, I was proud to secure state funding for this project when I represented the City of Westminster. Thank you to the City, the many advocates who helped bring this vision to life, and to Sylvia Mendez and the Mendez family for their lasting contributions to our nation’s story.

EVENT

Arab American Heritage Gala

I was fortunate to attend the Arab American Heritage Gala, which celebrated the 15th anniversary of the Arab American Civic Council, a local organization that has driven major achievements for our Middle Eastern and North African community in Orange County.

The event recognized honorees whose contributions have made a meaningful impact in the community and included the presentation of a Senate Resolution commemorating Arab American Heritage Month.

Thank you to the Arab American Civic Council for hosting an outstanding event!

Upcoming Events

1. Anaheim Children’s Festival
   1. May 17
   2. 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
   3. Pearson Park, Lemon St. & Sycamore St., Anaheim, CA 92802
   4. The City of Anaheim and Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center are hosting the 33rd annual Anaheim Children’s Festival. Families and friends of all ages can participate in art activities, explore booths, and enjoy musical and performing groups. 
      
      For more information, please go to: https://muzeo.org/event/anaheim-childrens-festival-2026/?event_date=2026-05-16.  
2. Garden Grove Strawberry Festival
   1. Memorial Day Weekend May 22-25
   2. Friday 1pm-10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm, Monday 10am-9pm
   3. Village Green Park, 12732 Main St, Garden Grove, CA 92840
   4. Throughout Memorial Day Weekend, the City of Garden Grove is hosting the 66th annual Garden Grove Strawberry Festival. Kicking off Friday, May 22 with an opening ceremony, the festival will feature a parade, rides, concerts, contests, food, and plenty of fun for everyone.
      
       For more information, please go to: https://strawberryfestival.org/.