August Newsletter
Dear Neighbor,
I hope you're having a great start to the month. Representing our community in the California State Senate is an honor that I never take for granted. Every day, my team and I are committed to listening to the people we serve, responding to the issues that matter most, and working to advance policies that strengthen our neighborhoods and improve the health and well-being of families across California.
August is one of the busiest months of the legislative year, as we work to review, debate, and vote on hundreds of bills before the Legislature’s August 31 deadline to pass legislation and send it to the Governor for consideration. If you have questions about legislation moving through the Capitol, or about any bill that may impact you, your family, or your community, please don’t hesitate to contact my office in either San Diego or Sacramento. My team and I are always here to help and to ensure your voice is heard.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
I wanted to take a moment to share a few of my priority bills that are advancing through the Legislature. From promoting healthier choices for Californians to strengthening early math education for our youngest learners, these efforts are focused on improving outcomes for families across our state:
SB 869 – Sugar Labeling on Menus
Requires chain restaurants with 20 or more locations to display a clear and conspicuous added sugar icon and accompanying text next to standard menu beverage items that contain high levels of added sugar on the menu. Click here for more information on SB 869.
Addresses California’s math achievement crisis by requiring annual K-2 assessments to identify students early and provide evidence-based intervention when it matters most. By getting students on track early, the bill will help more students build the foundational math skills they’ll need for long-term success in school, work, and life. Click here for more information on SB 1067.
I’ll continue sharing updates as these bills progress through the Legislature, including important hearings and key developments. You can also view my full legislative package by visiting my website here.
DISTRICT UPDATE
Community Recognitions Program
I am proud to uplift the constituents and businesses in my district through our special Community Recognitions Program. I invite you to engage with our office and nominate outstanding residents to be recognized for their contributions.
2026 Youth Leader
At just 15 years old, Zen Parris has distinguished himself as an inspiring young leader through his achievements in athletics, music, and community service. A dedicated sprint kayaker, Zen will represent Team USA at the 2026 Olympic Hopes Regatta in Slovakia after years of hard work and perseverance. Beyond his athletic accomplishments, he is the co-founder of the Hibiki Association, a youth-led nonprofit that brings communities together through classical music performances and volunteer service.
Whether supporting his teammates, organizing community events, or creating meaningful opportunities for others, Zen leads with kindness, humility, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact. We are proud to recognize him as SD39’s 2026 Youth Leader Honoree.
Let’s continue to showcase the beauty and diversity of our district together! The next category is for Hispanic Heritage Month in September!
Nomination Deadline: August 31, 2026
Hispanic Heritage Month Community Leader Award: This award honors one outstanding community leader. The community leader must reside in Senate District 39.
View all of the categories and submit your nominations here today: Community Recognition 2026 | Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D.
There Ought to be a Law
Each year, I look forward to receiving legislative bill ideas from my constituents! Starting September 1, 2026, my office will begin accepting submissions for ideas that could become statewide legislation. Your experiences and ideas help shape the work we do in the California State Senate.
For more information, please visit: There Ought To Be A Law | Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D.
AROUND THE DISTRICT
I had the opportunity to tour National University and learn more about its mission to expand access to higher education. With flexible programs designed to serve working professionals, military-connected students, veterans, and lifelong learners, the university is helping students achieve their educational and career goals while building a stronger workforce throughout our region and across California.
During my recent visit to FuelThyCells in San Diego, I got a firsthand look at how this local juice bar and sea moss shop is revolutionizing plant-based wellness. As San Diego’s first dedicated sea moss store, FuelThyCells offers wildcrafted sea moss gels, superfood bowls, and nutrient-infused juices designed to replenish the body with essential minerals and boost immunity. Beyond serving delicious, health-focused treats, FuelThyCells actively supports the community by educating locals on natural nutrition and making holistic wellness accessible at neighborhood farmers' markets and their storefront.
Innovation is thriving in our community, and Chioma Ugwonali, an M.D. candidate at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine, is a wonderful example of that. Learning about the Planetary Health in Medicine Fellowship she founded was both inspiring and a reminder of the incredible talent shaping the future of healthcare.
Strong communities are built through partnership and open dialogue. I appreciated the chance to sit down with ACLU San Diego & Imperial Counties to discuss their legislative priorities and the shared work of advancing policies that benefit the people of our region.
I recently hosted a Community Conversation on Midway Rising to bring San Diegans together to learn more about the proposed redevelopment of the Midway Distrct. It was a great opportunity for community members to hear directly from the project’s developers, ask questions and learn more about the vison for transforming this area and creating new opportunities for our community.
SIGHTS OF SENATE DISTRICT 39
To showcase the character and vibrancy of Senate District 39, each newsletter will spotlight a neighborhood, city, or place that helps make SD39 such a great community to call home.
Senate District 39 is home to so many incredible places that make a real difference in our daily lives, and the Grossmont Healthcare District Health and Wellness Library is certainly one of them. Through free health education, accessible wellness resources, interactive classes, and local community programs, the library helps neighbors of all ages learn, grow, and live healthier lives. We are deeply grateful for organizations like this that strengthen our neighborhoods and make SD39 an even better place to call home!
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Each month, I will spotlight a dedicated member of our team whose work helps us better serve our community every day. This month, I am spotlighting my Field Representative, Jesse A. Brown.
Jesse A. Brown serves in the office of Senator Weber Pierson, bringing over three and a half years of dedicated legislative experience to the team. Originally from Los Angeles, Jesse is a long-time resident of San Diego who first joined Team Weber Pierson during Dr. Weber’s tenure in the State Assembly.
In his role, Jesse oversees a diverse portfolio of key issue areas for the district, including K–12 Education, Housing, Military & Veterans Affairs, Arts, Hospitality & Tourism, and Insurance.
Deeply rooted in his local community, Jesse is a regular attendee and commissioned Pastoral Support team member at The Rock Church. Outside of his legislative work and side projects, in true LEO style he enjoys spending downtime at the beach in La Jolla, baking, exploring new restaurants, diving into creative and artsy projects, and spoiling his many nieces, nephews, and godchildren.
HEALTH SPOTLIGHT
Protect Your Vision During National Eye Exam Month
As a doctor and public health advocate, I know that small, everyday choices can have a lasting impact on our health. With August being National Eye Exam Month, it is a great reminder to prioritize your eye health.
Even if your vision seems fine, routine eye exams can detect problems before symptoms appear. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends comprehensive eye exams every 5–10 years for healthy adults under 40, more frequently for those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease, and every 1–2 years for adults age 65 and older.
To help protect your vision, wear UV-blocking sunglasses, eat a healthy diet, take regular breaks from screens, and schedule routine eye exams.
For more eye health resources and information, visit the Grossmont Healthcare District's Health & Wellness Library. Taking care of your eyes today can help protect your vision for years to come.
Closing Message
As we begin a new month, I hope you take a moment to prioritize the things that bring you joy, connection, and renewed energy. With the pace of daily life often moving so quickly, creating space for reflection and meaningful moments can help us stay grounded and focused on what matters most. As the saying goes, “The more we are present, the more alive life feels.” By slowing down, embracing the moments around us, and being intentional with our time, we can find greater appreciation and meaning in our everyday lives.
Serving as your State Senator is a privilege, and I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to represent you. The stories, concerns, and perspectives you share continue to guide the work we do and help inform the policies we pursue. I encourage you to remain connected, continue sharing your thoughts, and remember that my office is here as a resource.
If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, you can contact our office: Phone: 619-688-6700. District Office: 7575 Metropolitan Dr. Suite #100, San Diego, CA 92108.