“It has been a top priority of mine to ensure rural counties receive their fair share at the State level. While I’m proud of the accomplishments over the past year, there is still much work to be done on behalf of rural counties and constituents. I will continue to be a strong advocate on rural issues,” Berg said.

Since elected in November 2002, Assemblymember Berg has demonstrated her commitment to rural counties. During last year’s budget negotiations, Berg fought to maintain key funding for rural law enforcement in the Assembly budget. Berg also co-authored legislation to keep Vehicle License Fee funding flowing to local governments, thereby ensuring the continued provision of essential services such as police, fire protection, and health services.

In addition, Berg authored AB 1172 (Chapter 39, Statutes of 2003) which allows Del Norte County to partner with the City of Crescent City and Elk Valley Rancheria to install new and much needed sewer lines to allow for additional growth in the community and to improve the local economy. AB 1199 (Berg) provides that Del Norte County would be granted postponement of a State loan relating to Pelican Bay Prison.

In the coming year, Berg will work to secure funding for the Rural Law Enforcement Program. She also plans to introduce legislation to extend the sunset of the blended health, social services, and mental health program for all county governments, providing greater funding flexibility for local governments with limited budgets.

“Assemblymember Berg has worked hard to develop and maintain communication with local officials. She’s been a very accessible legislator. I know my voice is being heard in Sacramento,” said Del Norte County Supervisor David Finnigan.

Elected in November of 2002, Assemblymember Patty Berg represents the 1st Assembly District. The District stretches from the Oregon Border south to include the Counties of Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino, Lake, Trinity and parts of Sonoma. She currently serves as Chair of the Joint Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture and Vice Chair of the Assembly Committee on Aging and Long Term Care. She also serves on the Assembly Agriculture, Appropriations, Higher Education, Transportation, and Water Parks and Wildlife Committees.