Luz Rivas

Luz Rivas is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, representing California's 29th Congressional District in the San Fernando Valley. She was first elected to Congress in 2024 and took office in January 2025. Before her tenure in the House, Rivas served in the California State Assembly from 2018 to 2024, where she represented the 39th and later the 43rd districts. During her time in the state legislature, she held influential roles, including serving as the Chair of the Natural Resources Committee. Rivas holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a Master of Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Her professional background includes working as an electrical engineer for Motorola and founding DIY Girls, a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging young girls in the San Fernando Valley to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). She also served as a member of the Los Angeles Board of Public Works before entering state politics. In Congress, Rivas has been a vocal advocate for STEM education, environmental justice, and immigrant rights. She was elected as the Freshman Leadership Representative for the 119th Congress, a position that allows her to represent the interests of new Democratic members within the party's leadership structure. Her legislative focus has centered on climate change mitigation, mental health services, and economic empowerment for underrepresented communities.

Luz Rivas's policy positions are rooted in environmental advocacy, STEM education, and social equity. She is a strong proponent of climate action, having authored major state legislation to reduce plastic pollution and create notification systems for extreme heat. She supports expanding climate change education in public schools and transitioning to a green economy. On healthcare and social services, Rivas has advocated for universal school meals and introduced federal legislation like the HEART Act of 2026 to provide mental health support for communities affected by immigration enforcement. She is a supporter of reproductive rights, maintaining high ratings from organizations such as Planned Parenthood, and emphasizes the protection of Social Security and Medicare. In terms of the economy, she aligns with labor interests, advocating for workforce development in tech and engineering, and has worked to secure funding for local infrastructure and homelessness initiatives.