Legislative Briefing

On October 15, 2025, Golden State Opportunity (GSO) and Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez co-hosted a Legislative Staff Briefing on Affordability and Tax Credits at the California State Capitol. The event brought together legislative staff, policy experts, and advocates to explore how tax credits help California’s working families afford basic needs and build economic security.

The lunchtime session featured speakers including President of Golden State Opportunity, Amy Everitt; GSO Southern California Organizer, Jose Quezada; and the California Budget & Policy Center’s Policy Director, Alissa Anderson, and Research Associate, Nishi Nair, who provided an overview of key tax credits including the California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC), Young Child Tax Credit (YCTC), and Federal Child Tax Credit (CTC). Attendees learned how these refundable credits differ from deductions and exemptions—and how they are among the most effective tools to reduce poverty and support low-income households.

“Events like this help show the real impact refundable tax credits have on California families’ ability to make ends meet,” said Vanessa Orozco, Legislative Advocate at Golden State Opportunity. “Having these conversations with legislative staff helps ensure the policies shaped at the Capitol truly reflect the needs of our communities.”

GSO also shared powerful stories from across the state showing how tax credits make a tangible difference. One single mother from Los Angeles, facing eviction after falling behind on rent, received nearly $9,800 through free tax preparation, including $6,960 from the federal Earned Income Tax Credit. That refund allowed her to stay in her home, avoid eviction, and regain stability for her family—an example of how refundable credits provide immediate relief and long-term opportunity.

The briefing closed with an invitation for legislative offices to partner with GSO to reach their constituents with information about these credits and free tax preparation, Opportunities to spread the word range from signing up for GSO’s social media toolkit to hosting “Tacos and Taxes” events—community-based tax education and filing sessions that help Californians claim the money they’ve earned.

Golden State Opportunity thanks Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez, the California Budget & Policy Center, and all who attended for joining this important conversation on how tax credits create opportunity, promote financial stability, and strengthen communities across California.