Assemblyman James Ramos (D-San Bernardino) has been appointed chairman of the Assembly Rules Committee. today announced he has appointed Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-San Bernardino) as Chair of the Assembly Rules Committee.
In announcing the statement, Speaker of the Assembly Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) said of Ramos: “He has an outstanding background that lends itself to the administrative functions of this key committee. The fact that he is a representative of California’s original residents has added meaningful stature to the Assembly and now he brings that important quality to this Committee.”Rendon’s reference is to Ramos being a Native American. Ramos is the first Native American and Native Californian to be elected to the State Assembly. Prior to his 2018 election to the Assembly in the 40th District, he was San Bernardino County’s Third District supervisor. Prior to that, he was the tribal chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
“Above all, the valuable diligence that Assemblyman Ramos has shown during his time in the Assembly is what we need at this time,” said Rendon. “I’m pleased to make this appointment and thank him for stepping into this role.”
The Assembly Rules Committee’s authority extends primarily to matters relating to the protocol and business of the Assembly, including assignment of bills to committees, staffing and other procedural responsibilities in California’s lower legislative house.
Ramos expressed his gratitude at the appointment, saying, “I am honored and grateful to Speaker Rendon for entrusting me with the committee that oversees the operation of our house. In my prior roles as the Chairman of the San Manuel Tribal government and as the Chairman of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, I oversaw and worked through a wide variety of administrative issues at the local, state, and federal level.” He added, “In these administrative roles I worked alongside departments, and colleagues, to ensure successful outcomes. As Chair of the Assembly Rules Committee, I will work hard to utilize my experience in fulfilling the responsibilities within the committee’s jurisdiction.”
Ramos also noted the historical nature of his place in a key legislative role. “I am mindful of history and serving in this position as the first California Native American elected to the legislature; it once financed genocide against the state’s First People. My commitment is to well serve all the people of California and my colleagues.”