SACRAMENTO — Seven bills introduced by Assemblywoman Christy Smith (D-Santa Clarita) cleared the California Senate Appropriations Committee Friday, marking a crucial accomplishment in the legislative process, according to Smith’s office.

The measures focus on a wide array of topics, including restitution for victims of human trafficking, AP exam equity and government accountability.

The bills include:

· Assembly Bill (AB) 543 makes information and resources on sexual harassment prevention and procedures more accessible to high school students.

· AB 629 seeks justice for victims of human trafficking, establishing compensation from California’s Victim Compensation Board for income losses incurred as a result of trafficking.

· ABs 967 and 1507 updates and provides more clarity to the California Charter Schools Act.

· AB 1233 waives Advanced Placement (AP) exam fees for low-income students and foster youth.

· AB 1637 works with the State Controller’s Office to streamline the unclaimed property request process.

· AB 1729 increases high school summer enrollment in community college courses.

Smith commented on the Appropriations Committee action:

“Our objectives with my legislative package were to promote return on investment and uplift the people of the 38th Assembly District and California,” Smith said. “I take pride that my bills address a wide range of issues with a solutions-based approach and look forward to seeing my measures implemented into law to help elevate our quality of life.”

Smith represents California’s 38th Assembly District, which includes the communities of Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, Agua Dulce, Castaic, Santa Susana Knolls and North San Fernando Valley.