On Oct. 13, we caught up with Assemblymember Marc Levine to discuss newly passed legislation that will help better connect Californians with state parks. With the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in the background, Assemblymember Levine joined Senator Fran Pavely, other local legislators, organizations and students to celebrate the signing of the new legislation and re-imagine the future of state parks.

Summer in California is synonymous with the beach. But for many Angelenos living in urban communities, taking part in this summer ritual isn’t easy. Parks Now, a coalition of experts, activists and community leaders, teamed up with a group of San Fernando Valley teenagers from Youth Speak Collective as well as Senate President pro Tem Kevin de Leon to document what a journey to the beach is like for many Angelenos.

Parks do much more than merely beautify neighborhoods. They make them healthier and happier. Access to green space reduces the stress often correlated with urban life and alleviates the symptoms associated with numerous mental health disorders. Simply having a park you can walk to easily from home makes you more likely to exercise.