California is putting more resources toward Los Angeles's preparations for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with Governor Gavin Newsom signing new legislation that includes an additional $7 million investment. The signing ceremony took place Sunday at Exposition Park, in front of the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
The new funding adds to a previous $96.5 million investment made earlier this summer, which was designated for upgrades and modernization efforts at Exposition Park. This site is notable for being slated to become the first venue to host three different summer Olympic Games.
The bills signed by Governor Newsom address several aspects of the Games' readiness:
AB 2411 focuses on public safety by requiring the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) to negotiate agreements with state, local, and out-of-state law enforcement agencies. These agreements are intended to facilitate the temporary deployment of personnel needed to meet the public safety demands of the 2028 Games. The bill also establishes a temporary certification and training program for out-of-state law enforcement personnel through the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), ensuring they can assist with security during the event.
AB 2436 provides continued support for student athletes by extending the current exemption that allows Team USA student athletes training in California to receive resident tuition classification. This helps ensure that athletes can continue their training in the state without additional financial burden related to out-of-state tuition.
Lastly, AB 191 implements temporary statutory amendments designed to ensure the successful and timely delivery of the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This legislation aims to meet the unique operational demands that arise from hosting a global event of this magnitude.
Governor Newsom commented on the state’s role, stating that California is experiencing "a historic run of sporting events." He added that the new bills enable the state to continue to "deliver for fans and athletes alike — all across the world," according to a statement. Reynold Hoover, CEO of LA29, the organizing committee for the Games, also weighed in. Hoover described the 2028 Games as "a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase California’s innovation and spirit on the world stage." He further noted that these actions reflect a shared ambition to create Games that make Californians proud and benefit the communities hosting the event.
The 2028 Olympics are part of a busy sports calendar for the Los Angeles area. In addition to hosting several World Cup matches earlier this year, the region is also set to host the Super Bowl on February 14, 2027.
Economically, the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games are projected to be a significant boost for the region. A recent study by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation’s Institute for Applied Economics estimates that the Games could generate between $20.5 billion and $40.6 billion in economic activity and support 126,000 to 224,000 jobs across the greater Los Angeles region.
