February Newsletter
Dear Neighbor,
I hope this message finds you and your loved ones well. It is an honor to serve you in the California State Senate, and I remain committed to listening to your concerns, advocating for your priorities, and delivering results that strengthen our communities. From advancing legislation at the Capitol to staying connected here in the district, my team and I are working every day to ensure your voices are reflected in the decisions that impact your lives.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
I’m pleased to share a brief update on my legislative work underway. In January, two of my bills Senate Bill 277 and Senate Bill 849 were heard in the Senate Appropriations Committee. The Appropriations Committee reviews the fiscal impact to the State of bills being considered by the Legislature. The two measures would do the following:
- SB 277 – A focused, cost neutral clarification measure regarding consensual searches performed by peace officers designed to enhance officer safety, reduce conflicts during traffic stops, and minimize costly litigation for local governments, particularly smaller and rural agencies.
Consent searches are among the most frequently disputed police interactions. Disagreements over whether consent was truly given can escalate routine stops into confrontations, complaints, internal investigations, and civil lawsuits. SB 277 addresses this risk by establishing clear, uniform standards for consent searches when there is no reasonable suspicion and no safety exigency. The bill does not eliminate consent searches and includes an exception for exigent circumstances related to officer and public safety.
- SB 849 – Expands current patient safety protections by requiring the Medical Board to automatically revoke the license of any physician or surgeon whose license was reinstated on or after January 1, 2020, following a finding of sexual misconduct with a patient. The bill also prohibits those individuals from petitioning the Medical Board for reinstatement or renewal of their license.
Despite significant time and effort from the sponsors and our office, including continued engagement with law enforcement and the submission of cost‑saving amendments, SB 277 was unfortunately held in the Senate Appropriations Committee and will no longer move forward. SB 849 passed out of committee and passed off the Senate floor with a unanimous vote. It now heads to the Assembly, where it will be assigned to a committee. I am working on the introduction of new bills ahead of the February 20, 2026, deadline and will continue to keep you updated on their progress.
CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS UPDATE
As Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, we were proud to host the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast Celebration in Sacramento, honoring the life, legacy, and enduring impact of Dr. King. The event brought together community leaders, advocates, and elected officials to reflect on Dr. King’s commitment to justice, equality, and service, and to recommit to advancing opportunity and equity for all Californians. As we honor his legacy, we remain inspired to continue the work of building stronger, more inclusive communities.
DISTRICT UPDATE
I am excited to kick off the year with energy and optimism as we gear up for a productive season in the community. We look forward to serving the incredible constituents of Senate District 39 as we work together to make our district thrive.
My district office is here for you! From navigating state services to addressing questions or concerns, our constituent services team is ready to assist. If you need help with a state agency, have an issue you’d like support with, or simply want to share feedback, we encourage you to contact our office. We are just a call away and always happy to help. Please save my district office phone number if you have not already (619) 688-6700.
I am also proud to uplift the constituents and businesses in my district through our special Community Recognitions Program. We invite you to engage with our office and nominate outstanding residents to be recognized for their contributions. Let’s showcase the beauty and diversity of our district together! Nominations are now open for Women’s History Month celebrated in March.
Nomination Deadline: February 13, 2026
- Woman of the Year: Honors one outstanding woman in the field of education demonstrating exemplary leadership and innovation in the academic field.
- Woman-owned Small Business: Women-owned small business with positive community impact must be located in the 39th Senate District.
View all of the categories and submit your nominations here today: Community Recognition 2026 | Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D.
44th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade
Last month, I was excited to participate in the 44th Annual San Diego Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade coordinated by the Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy!
SIGHTS OF SENATE DISTRICT 39
To showcase the character and vibrancy of my district, each newsletter will spotlight a neighborhood that helps make Senate District 39 such a special place to call home.
First up, the City of El Cajon. El Cajon is a vibrant city in SD 39 that is filled with entrepreneurship and community. The streets here hum with family-owned markets, local shops, and restaurants started by longtime residents and newcomers. These businesses create jobs, foster connection, and give neighbors places to gather and celebrate culture.
I also want to acknowledge the meaningful presence of Chaldean and Arabic families whose traditions and leadership add to the city’s richness. I am grateful for every person who helps make El Cajon thrive.
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Each month, I will spotlight a dedicated member of our team whose work helps us better serve our community every day.
Albert Parnell, M.A., Press Secretary (Capitol Office)
Albert leads all communications for the Senator’s Capitol Office, managing media relations, messaging, and keeping the public informed about the work being done on behalf of our district. Although he has been with the office for only one year, he brings more than a decade of experience in media and press, helping ensure our communications are timely, accurate, and impactful.
He earned his degrees in Political Science, Sociology, and African American Studies from UC Davis and holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership and Policy from Sacramento State, providing a strong foundation in public policy and community-centered leadership.
When he’s not working on press and outreach, Albert is a devoted sports fan who enjoys cheering on his favorite teams, the Los Angeles Clippers and the San Francisco 49ers.
HEALTH SPOTLIGHT
The Hidden Impact of Added Sugar
As a physician, I’m proud to share this month’s Health Spotlight, offering insights and resources to help our community stay healthy and informed. Added sugar has a way of slipping into our meals and snacks, often in places we don’t expect, like flavored yogurts, sauces, coffee drinks, and packaged foods. Eating too much of it can leave you feeling tired, make it harder to manage your weight, and over time can raise the risk of health issues such as heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. The good news is that small, simple changes can make a real difference. Try switching sugary drinks for water or unsweetened tea, choosing snacks with fewer ingredients, or gradually cutting back on the sugar you add to your coffee or recipes. Even small steps can help boost your energy and support long‑term health.
Closing Message
As we continue this work together, I encourage you to take a moment to pause, reflect and care for yourself and those around you. As the saying goes, “Small steps taken with intention can lead to meaningful change.” May we continue showing up for one another with patience, compassion, and purpose.
Thank you for the trust you place in me to serve as your State Senator. Your engagement, advocacy, and partnership are essential to the work we do, and I encourage you to stay connected and reach out whenever you need assistance or have ideas to share. My office is here to serve you. Please reach out via Phone: (619) 688-6700 or by visiting my District Office: 7575 Metropolitan Dr. Suite #100, San Diego, CA 92108