Assemblymember James C. Ramos (D-Highland) on Wednesday announced he has been named as chair of the Assembly Military and Veterans Affairs Committee by Speaker Anthony Rendon.

“I thank Speaker Rendon for this new assignment and the privilege of serving our state’s military and veterans communities,” Ramos said. “I look forward to working even more closely with veterans and armed forces groups from around California in this new role.”

The committee’s primary jurisdictions are the Cal-Vet loan program, state Department of Veterans Affairs, California National Guard and veterans.

“Congratulations Assemblyman James Ramos,” said Colonel James M. Durant III, U. S. Air Force Ret.”Today marks a significant turn in California’s dedication to veterans and Veterans Affairs under your astute and highly effective leadership. You will bring the measure of change and hope that veterans so desperately need from a grateful state and country. I am honored to call you my dear friend and colleague of over 50 years, and I salute you.”

Jeffrey Breiten, past commandant, Marine Corps League Detachment 1459, said, "Assemblymember James Ramos' selection as the chair of the Assembly Military and Veterans Affairs Committee is great news for the 1.8 million veterans who call California home. Assemblymember Ramos has a proven track record of ensuring all California veterans have access to the resources and benefits provided to them by CAL-Vet.” He added, “Congratulations Assemblymember Ramos on your selection, and thank you for your proven commitment to our veterans across this great state."

Ramos proudly represents the 40th Assembly district which includes Highland, Loma Linda, Mentone, Rancho Cucamonga, Redlands, and San Bernardino. He is the first and only California Native American serving in the state’s legislature.