Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California Statement on Swearing in of Speaker Robert Rivas
June 30, 2023
Jennifer Wonnacott
SACRAMENTO—Statement from Jodi Hicks, CEO/President of Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, on the Assemblymember Robert Rivas being sworn in as the 71st Speaker:
“Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California congratulates Assemblymember Robert Rivas on being sworn in as the 71st Speaker of the California Assembly.
“There is no question Speaker Rivas’ values and leadership have been shaped by his experience growing up in the Central Valley, in farm worker communities, and his work to fight for the most vulnerable in our state. Not only does he bring deep understanding of the challenges facing many in our state, including access to health care in rural areas, he brings compassion, integrity, and humility that will serve him well as he works to achieve consensus in the Assembly.
“Speaker Rivas has been a steadfast supporter in the fight to protect and expand access to sexual and reproductive health care, including abortion, and we appreciate his commitment to ensuring California continues that work. We look forward to working with him as our state continues on the path to achieving equitable and accessible health care for all Californians.
“And we thank Speaker-emeritus Rendon for his years of leadership in the Assembly. His legacy of supporting sexual and reproductive health care will certainly endure as we transition into a new era of leadership and continue the hard work that must be done to fight for reproductive freedom for all.”
###