How do I voice my opinion regarding legislation?

If you have any comments regarding current legislation or ideas for new legislation please visit our website and send your comments via email, mail, or fax. Please provide legibly your full name, and mail address or we cannot guarantee a response.

Email Assemblymember Joan Buchanan

Why am I required to give my home address when contacting the Assemblymember?

My staff can refer you to the most helpful services if they know in what geographical area you are located. We will refer people outside Assembly District 16 to people who can best help them. Asking for addresses also helps ensure that I am representing the views of my constituents living in the 16th District.

How do I invite the Assemblymember to an event?

You can send invitations to my office by mail or fax. My legislative duties don't always allow me to attend events as often as I would like, but my district staff is available to represent me. Please send your invitations to the scheduler and I will do everything I can to attend:

Please be sure to include the date, time and location of the event and method of contacting you. Also include information pertaining to the nature of the event and the requested role of the Assemblymember at the event.

How do I get a flag flown over the Capitol?

If you are interested in purchasing your California or U.S. flag flown over the Capitol, please contact the District Office at 925-328-1515.

How do I schedule tours of the State Capitol?

The State Capitol Museum conducts tours daily, on the hour, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are free guided school and group tours by reservation only. Groups are limited to 35 persons. For tour information, educational materials and group rules, contact the Tour Office at (916) 324-0333 and to make reservations call (866) 240-4655.

How do I become a California State Assembly Fellow?

The California State Assembly Fellowship Program, founded in 1957, is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious legislative fellowship programs. This unique program provides an opportunity for individuals of all ages, ethnic backgrounds and experiences to directly participate in the legislative process.

Each year, 18 individuals are selected to participate in the program. The 11-month fellowship provides an introduction to public policy formation and adoption in the California Legislature through full-time work as a professional legislative staff member. To find additional information about the fellowship program, visit www.csus.edu/calst/assembly_fellowship_program.html.

I have a problem with a state agency; can your office help me?

My staff and I are here to serve you with any needs you may have with state government. Finding help can be confusing and frustrating. If you have a problem with a state agency, my staff can help find answers.

We can help with agencies such as:

• Department of Motor Vehicles - driver's license, vehicle registration
• Employment Development Department - unemployment benefits
• Medi-Cal
• Franchise Tax Board
• CA Public Utilities Commission
• CA Department of Insurance
• CA Department of Real Estate
• CA Contractors State License Board
• CA Department of Corporations
• And more

We can seek answers to your questions, make the appropriate officials aware of your concerns and cut through "red tape" you might be experiencing. However, please know that neither I, nor my staff, can approve a claim or appeal, or compel any agency to act in your favor. We cannot offer legal advice or intervene in legal matters, such as child custody disputes, traffic cases, or any judicial proceedings. In addition, my office is also unable to assist you with federal issues such as Social Security or immigration.

If you're not sure where to go for help, feel free to ask us. My staff and I are committed to assisting you with any state issues. We can also refer you to your federal, county or city representative. Please call my district staff at 925-328-1515.

What cities are in the 16th Assembly District?

I am proud to represent the communities of Moraga, Orinda, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton and Livermore, as well as many unincorporated communities in Contra Costa and Alameda counties.

How do I track legislation?

You can find bill information using our site’s legislative bill search option or by visiting www.leginfo.ca.gov.