Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom Receives “Legislator of The Year” Recognition for Youth Mental Health Advocacy

SACRAMENTO, CA - Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom has been recognized as Legislator of the Year by the California Mental Health Advocates for Children and Youth (CMHACY) for her leadership and advocacy on issues impacting youth mental health, education, and student success across California.

The recognition came on the same day Assemblymember Ransom presented ACR 182 on the Assembly Floor, officially designating May 3 through May 9, 2026, as Youth Mental Health Awareness Week in California. The resolution recognizes the growing importance of youth mental health support and affirms that young people should not have to navigate life's challenges alone.

Watch: Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom presenting ACR 182 on the Assembly Floor.

Investing in Career Pathways for Students

Recognizing the importance of preparing students for both college and career success, Assemblymember Ransom introduced AB 1590 to guarantee the full allocation of state funding for Career Technical Education (CTE) programs.

Over the past five years, over $115 million in approved CTE funding has gone unused due to a restrictive allocation formula, limiting opportunities for students to access hands-on career training programs across California. AB 1590 will ensure state-approved funding reaches classrooms and students directly.

Closing California's Achievement Gap

Assemblymember Ransom has also prioritized educational equity through AB 2514, legislation creating a public-facing "State of the Achievement Gap Dashboard" to measure California's progress in improving student outcomes and closing long-standing academic disparities.

AB 2514 will establish clearer benchmarks, accountability measures, and transparency tools to help educators, policymakers, and families better understand whether state programs and investments are effectively supporting students.

Supporting Vulnerable Students Through School Transitions

Assemblymember Ransom's youth-focused legislative package also includes AB 1659, which would strengthen support systems for students transitioning from juvenile court schools back into their home school districts.

The bill requires school districts to designate staff responsible for helping vulnerable students successfully re-enroll, recover credits, and continue their education without unnecessary delays or disruptions. AB 1659 will reduce dropout risks, improve educational continuity, and support long-term student success during high-risk transition periods.

Opportunities for Youth

In addition to her legislative work, Assemblymember Ransom recently launched an "Opportunities for Youth" page on her official website to help connect young people with scholarships, internships, jobs, leadership programs, and career development opportunities available throughout San Joaquin County and across California.

This new hub will make opportunities more accessible and ensure students and young adults have a centralized hub to explore programs that can support their educational and professional goals.

Addressing Mental Health for Justice-Impacted Adults

Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom also authored AB 2259, that will expand access to mental health therapy for incarcerated individuals preparing to re-enter society. AB 2259 creates a pilot program within California correctional facilities to provide mental health services to individuals nearing release who currently do not qualify for institutional mental health treatment.

Assemblymember Ransom's legislation is designed to support rehabilitation, reduce recidivism, and improve reentry outcomes by ensuring individuals have access to therapy and support services before returning to their communities.