State Senator Christopher Cabaldon Wins National Policy Award

State Senator Christopher Cabaldon has been awarded for his innovative policy approach by the NewDEAL Forum, a national organization that recognizes forward-thinking state and local policymakers. The accolade, part of the annual 2025 Ideas Challenge, highlights initiatives aimed at fostering strong, healthy communities. Cabaldon is one of six winners selected from over 50 submissions this year.

The award recognizes Cabaldon’s SB 640, legislation designed to enhance access to higher education in California. This bill establishes a direct admission program for qualified high school seniors to the California State University (CSU) system. Rather than requiring a traditional application, eligible students who meet the A-G requirements will automatically receive an admission letter. This initiative aims to simplify the transition from high school to college, ensuring that more graduates can pursue higher education without the cumbersome application process.

In a statement, Senator Cabaldon emphasized the importance of this policy, stating, “Too many qualified students never make it through the admissions maze. SB 640 ensures every eligible student gets that letter of admission, without the application.” He added that the bill makes higher education a natural next step for students, removing barriers such as unnecessary forms and fees that often deter potential applicants.

The selection process for the award involved a rigorous review by national policy experts who assessed each submission based on its potential impact. According to Jonathon Dworkin, Executive Director of the NewDEAL Forum, the winners exemplify effective leadership and innovative policy-making. Dworkin remarked, “These elected officials are addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing Americans today, from housing affordability and access to health care to public safety and education.”

Submissions for the Ideas Challenge were categorized into six key areas: Housing, Health, Education, Youth Investment, Public Safety, and Democracy. After narrowing down to twenty finalists, the judges selected one winner from each category, showcasing the diversity and importance of these initiatives.

The accolade for Cabaldon comes during a challenging year marked by federal budget cuts and political uncertainties. His legislation, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in October, is a continuation of a pilot program developed during Cabaldon’s tenure as Mayor of West Sacramento. This earlier initiative provided automatic admission for graduates to Sacramento City College, demonstrating a successful model for increasing college enrollment rates.

Cabaldon underlined the dual purpose of his legislation, stating, “Tens of thousands of students are qualified but never apply. At the same time, CSU campuses are seeing alarming enrollment declines. This policy bridges that gap, and it does so with a tool that’s as powerful emotionally as it is administratively: the acceptance letter.”

The NewDEAL Forum aims to elevate innovative policies that can improve the lives of all Americans. By fostering the spread of effective policy ideas, the organization seeks to promote economic growth and reduce barriers to opportunity in communities across the country.