East SBV Times

Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) has sent a formal letter to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), expressing her deep concern over the decision to permanently close the Banning DMV Field Office. The closure would have a significant impact on the residents of the San Gorgonio Pass Area, which encompasses cities such as Banning, Beaumont, Calimesa, and several unincorporated communities. Senator Ochoa Bogh has called on the DMV to reconsider this decision, citing the profound negative effect it will have on accessibility for local residents, particularly seniors and underserved populations.

“The Banning DMV Office has been a part of this community for over 40 years. For many residents, especially seniors and those with limited resources, this office is not just a convenience but a necessity,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. "Expecting residents to travel long distances for DMV services is simply not viable, especially in a rapidly growing region like ours."

The San Gorgonio Pass Area, home to over 107,000 people, is a predominantly rural and suburban region where traveling to nearby DMV offices can require more than 30 minutes of driving, which is particularly challenging for vulnerable residents. In her letter, Senator Ochoa Bogh emphasized that the permanent closure of the Banning DMV will severely limit access to essential DMV services for many people, compounding existing challenges in a region already underserved.

The letter also highlights the rapid growth of the area, with Banning and Beaumont identified as some of the fastest-growing cities in California. "With the population continuing to rise, the demand for DMV services in this area will only increase," Senator Ochoa Bogh stated. "We need more resources for this community, not fewer."

Senator Ochoa Bogh urges the DMV to reconsider its decision to close the Banning office and to work with local governments and the community to find a solution that maintains critical DMV services in the area.