LOS ANGELES — The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) issued the following statement regarding the passing of former California State Senator and Assemblymember Nell Soto:

“NALEO is deeply saddened by the passing last week of former California State Senator and Assemblymember Nell Soto.  As the first Latina elected statewide from the Inland Empire, she was a champion for the people of Pomona, the Inland Empire and the state of California.  She will be remembered for her efforts to protect California’s drinking water from toxic contamination and for legislation that improved foster care licensing, and improving welfare to work programs.  Her legacy lives on with The Nell Soto Parent Teacher Involvement Program, an important tool for helping students succeed.  Her outstanding leadership undoubtedly left a mark on the state of California.  NALEO extends its deepest condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues.”