As of Friday, March 18, Assembly Member Jeff Gorell, whose district includes a large portion of Castaic, has been called back to active duty with the U.S. Navy mobilized to serve a one-year tour of duty “boots on the ground” in Afghanistan.

Assemblyman Gorell, who currently holds the rank of Lt. Commander with the Navy (Reserve) is an intelligence officer and has previously served a tour of duty in Afghanistan shortly after the events of 9/11.

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In his absence, legislation authored by Gorell will continue to be guided through the legislature by his Chief of Staff, Mark Timmerman; his legislative director, Samuel Chung; and a bipartisan group of co-authors that have joined him in introducing his bills.

In the district office, District Director Ernie Villegas will continue to take the lead in responding to constituent affairs and conducting community outreach.

During the time that he will be on active duty with the Navy, Gorell will not be receiving his legislative salary or benefits.