Asm. Bill Essayli Reacts to Assembly Candidate Cervantes DUI Conviction

Underscores the Urgent Need for House Resolution 51 (Essayli)

SACRAMENTO, Calif., August 30, 2023 – Assemblyman Bill Essayli issued the following statement:

“Today Clarissa Cervantes pled guilty to her second DUI criminal conviction while still seeking to become a Member of the State Assembly. This only underscores the urgent need to pass House Resolution 51, which would prohibit a Member of the Assembly from using a taxpayer-funded car for a period of three years following a DUI conviction.

“If you’re convicted of a DUI, you should not be rewarded with car keys to a taxpayer-funded car. It not only sends the wrong message, but it endangers the public and exposes the state to significant liability. DUI is a horrific crime that kills over 1,000 Californians a year. I call on the Assembly Rules Committee to hear HR 51 in these final weeks of Session to protect the public and hold politicians accountable.”

This comes the same day State Senator Dave Min received his criminal sentencing for driving under the influence while driving a taxpayer-funded legislative pool car. HR 51 has been in the Assembly Rules Committee for over a month and can be heard any time Rules Chair James Ramos decides before the Legislature adjourns September 14.

Assemblyman Bill Essayli represents the 63rd Assembly District in the California Legislature, which includes the whole cities of Norco, Menifee, Lake Elsinore, and Canyon Lake, as well as portions of the cities of Eastvale, Riverside, and Corona.