Posted: March 21st, 2006

Press Statement Regarding the Passing of Marco Antonio Firebaugh

Los Angeles, CA- Marco Antonio Firebaugh, 39, former California Assembly Majority Floor Leader and Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus passed away this morning at approximately 7:15 a.m. at UCLA Medical Center. Doctors attributed the cause of death to influenza and liver failure.

“Marco passed peacefully with his family and loved ones at his side. Our nation has lost a true visionary and tireless advocate for working families,” said California Senator Richard G. Polanco. “His legacy will live on through the lives of those who were touched by his story, compassion for others, and zeal for positive change in our state’s most vulnerable communities. His mission was to touch the lives of youth and through them his civil rights work will continue.”

Once the funeral services are finalized, interested parties can obtain additional information at the following numbers: Sacramento (916) 441-6856; Los Angeles (213) 628-0808.

Marco is survived by his mother, Carmen Ramos Garcia; his children, Tlalli Ariana and Nicolas Andres; brothers, Carlos and Jesse; sisters, Cecilia and Esmeralda.

Marco Antonio Firebaugh served as Visiting Professor and Policy Fellow at the UCLA School of Medicine, Center for the Study of Latino Health and Culture. Additionally, he was President of MAF Strategic Consulting, Inc., a public affairs firm. He was also a Commissioner on the California Medical Assistance Commission.