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New bill passed helps street vendors

Safe Sidewalk Vending Act takes effect in 2019
Posted 6:54 AM, Sep 19, 2018

Cleso Gamez is a father of six, by day he picks grapes and by night for three hours he sells flower bouquets to help feed his family. 

"Sometimes I don't make enough money to make ends meet, and I also have to send money to my family who is in Mexico," said Celso Gamez. 

Gamez originally from Puebla State in Mexico, has been living in California for two years and is trying to find ways to make more money for his family.

The new Safe Sidewalk Vending Act signed by Governor Brown this week, would help vendors like Gomez. 

Supporters hope that this bill will create entrepreneurship opportunities for low-income and immigrant communities. State Senator Ricardo Lara introduced the legislation after a woman was arrested for selling corn in Los Angeles County. She was detained by ICE for six months, until a judge ordered her release. 

Gamez said, "If I would be protected to sell my flowers on the street…I wouldn't sell them with fear, and it would help me out financially."

Gamez hopes this bill with help him create more revenue and not limit his business opportunities. 

"With protection, I would want to bring more flowers, and I think it would allow me to make more money," said Gamez.

With the ability to sell more flowers out of a flower booth or stand, he could stop carrying his small bucket, that allows him to grab his flowers quickly if he is asked to leave. 

Bakersfield, CA

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