Sacramento – After almost 10 years of service in the California State Assembly, Assemblyman Mathis announces that this will be his final term. Assemblyman Mathis issued the following statement:
“Out of all of the decisions I’ve had to make since joining the Assembly, my decision to retire is probably the hardest one. Even as a kid, I knew that I wanted to engage in public service but was unsure about how exactly to do so. After serving 12 years in the Army National Guard, where I was wounded by an IED in Iraq, I knew that I still wanted to give back to the community that has given me so much. This led me to run for public office, where I was able to win a seat in the Assembly despite having all the odds stacked against a guy like me. For almost a decade, I have had the distinct honor of serving the Central Valley as the Assemblyman for the 26th District, and then for the 33rd District.
During this time, I have had the privilege of meeting many of my constituents and discussing their concerns. I’ve also been able to serve in Assembly Republican Leadership as Caucus Whip and then as Chair of Caucus Operations. As the Assemblyman of a very overlooked area, I have spent my tenure working to get the much-needed resources to people, families, and communities I represent. I’ve prided myself on doing the work for the people to put “People Over Politics” and have worked behind the scenes on every major deal that’s been through the legislature. I will never forget late nights working with Gov. Jerry Brown and other Leaders to meet key Legislative deadlines.
I’ve had the honor of being recognized for my work by many organizations and associations. The California Farm Bureau awarded me the “Friend of the Farm Bureau” award for my tireless advocacy on behalf of rural communities. For my work in expanding water access to all Californians, I received the “Small Water Systems Champion” award from CalMutuals. I was also honored to receive the “Legislative Champion” award from Arc/UCP Collaboration for my word on behalf of the IDD community. Finally, on an issue that is very close to my heart, I was touched to be recognized as “Legislator of the Year” by the California State Commanders Veterans Council for my efforts to ensure that our Veterans get the support that they deserve.
Since 2014 I have had the opportunity to sit on many Assembly Committees that deal with pressing issues that impact our state. On top of being the Vice Chair of the Agriculture and Water, Parks & Wildlife Committees, I’ve also had the privilege of sitting on the Committees for Appropriations, Utilities & Energy, Military & Veterans Affairs, Natural Resources, Governmental Organization, Environmental & Toxic Safety, Health & Human Services, and Aging & Longterm Care. While serving on these Committees, I’ve worked with Stakeholders and Members of both parties on how best to move our State forward. Some of the major legislation I’ve passed in the last 9 years include bills that increase CEQA exemptions for development (AB 356), ensure the 988 Suicide Hotline can better address Veterans’ suicides (AB 988), improve the processing of water project applications (AB 682), protect Native American control over their lands (AB 1180), prosecute the impersonation of a public safety officer (AB 1899) and expand STEM opportunities for underrepresented students (AB 1923).
As I retire from the Assembly, I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family, who have always been supportive of me. Despite my time in the Legislature coming to a close, my involvement with public service will continue. Once my term ends, I look forward to working with District Stakeholders on projects that will benefit the Valley. I will release more information as time progresses.
I want to thank the people of the Valley for continuously placing their trust and support in me over my tenure. I also want to thank everyone who worked with me and my team over these years. The Valley is a better place because of your hard work and dedication. It has been the honor of a lifetime to have been able to serve you all these years. I look forward to continuing to serve the Valley and our Communities in a different capacity in the years to come.”
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