SACRAMENTO — California Governor Gavin Newsom announced several appointments to state boards and commissions involving labor relations, health care affordability and early intervention services.

Fernando Reyes Named Legal Advisor at PERB

Governor Newsom appointed Fernando Reyes as Legal Advisor at the Public Employment Relations Board (PERB). Reyes has served as Senior Regional Attorney at PERB since 2025 after previously serving as Regional Attorney and Deputy County Counsel for Mendocino County. The position does not require Senate confirmation and carries an annual salary of $151,776.

Mikah Owen and David Chase Appointed to Health Care Affordability Board

Newsom appointed Dr. Mikah Owen and David Chase to the Health Care Affordability Board, with both appointments subject to Senate confirmation and compensated at $100 per diem.

Owen currently serves as Director of Training and Evidence at ACE Resource Network and as a pediatrician at the Sacramento County Youth Detention Facility. His background includes leadership roles in pediatric medicine, public health and family resilience initiatives.

Chase serves as Chief Policy and Outreach Officer at Small Business Majority, where he has held several leadership positions since 2010. He previously served as Special Assistant in the Office of former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and has extensive experience in public policy and small business advocacy.

Samantha Jo Hebermehl Appointed to Early Intervention Council

Governor Newsom also appointed Samantha Jo Hebermehl to the State Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Intervention.

Hebermehl currently provides services through California's In-Home Support Services program and has been actively involved in statewide early intervention and developmental services initiatives. The appointment does not require Senate confirmation and is unpaid.