Assemblymembers Grayson and Frazier Announce $6 Million in Funding Secured for Special Olympics California

(Sacramento, CA) – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a budget trailer bill (AB 130, Committee on Budget) that included $6 million in funding for Special Olympics Northern and Special Olympics Southern California, which was a priority of Assemblymember Tim Grayson (D-Concord) and Assemblymember Jim Frazier (D-Fairfield).

“Through sports, our Special Olympics athletes become more independent, build self-esteem, live healthier lives, and are able to experience a community where they are accepted and celebrated,” said Assemblymember Grayson.  “I’m thrilled that our California Special Olympics organizations will be receiving this critical funding so that they can continue their good work supporting the nearly 60,000 athletes in our state.”

"I am so happy to have been able to help secure the funding for this wonderful organization,” said Assemblymember Frazier. “The Special Olympics fosters acceptance and inclusion, and gives those with disabilities the opportunity to have the same experience as their friends without disabilities. These individuals get to compete, be part of a team, and forge friendships through sports. These athletes and their efforts are a true inspiration." 

Assemblymembers Grayson and Frazier both made personal requests that funding for Special Olympics Northern California and Special Olympics Southern California be included in the state’s budget in order to ensure that the organizations are able to continue their work in guaranteeing the rights, full participation, and integration of people with intellectual disabilities (ID) in our communities.

David L. Solo, President & CEO, Special Olympics Northern California, and Calvin L. Lyons, President & CEO, Special Olympics Southern California also provided the following statement:

 “Since the beginning of COVID-19, individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families have been severely impacted. This year, both Governor Gavin Newsom and the State Legislature showed their commitment to Special Olympics California. We are thankful that Assemblymembers Jim Frazier and Tim Grayson continue to support the work we are doing for Californians and are unrelenting champions in the Capitol for those with ID.  We are humbled by their leadership, and that of Senator Josh Becker and Assemblymember Evan Low, who authored letters of support, collectively receiving 33 colleagues to sign on to these efforts. This month, we head back to year-round in-person events and the partnership with the State of California is essential to Special Olympics empowering people with ID to live active, healthy, and fulfilling lives."

The full text of AB 130, which also includes critical funding for California’s public schools and special education programs, can be found here. For information about Special Olympics Northern California and Special Olympics Southern California, please visit their websites: sonc.org and sosc.org.

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