The daughter of hardworking immigrant parents, Melissa grew up in the Valley. She learned firsthand from her parents that hard work, a good education and perseverance is fundamental to success. Melissa is the first from her family to graduate from college. After graduating from Sacramento State University, Melissa returned home to the Valley to serve her community and build a better life for Valley families. She advocated for teachers, patients and working families — helping lead the fight for good wages, access to quality health care and retirement security.
Senator Hurtado understands that a clean and reliable water supply is essential for Valley families and our agricultural economy. She has led the fight to secure funding and policies to improve Valley water supplies:
Won $200 million to repair California’s water conveyance canals that deliver drinking water to communities throughout California and sustain the state’s leading agricultural economy.
Co-authored and helped shape the Safe and Affordable Clean Drinking Water Act.
Secured $15 million to address failing water systems and deliver safe and clean drinking water to communities in the southern Central Valley.
Worked to obtain $130 million in state funding to secure safe drinking water in our most vulnerable communities.