Former Assemblywoman Nell Soto, who represented the 61st District that includes Pomona and stretches into San Bernardino County, died today at age 82, according to Assembly Speaker Karen Bass.

Assemblywoman Soto, who was first elected to the Assembly in 1998 then served six years in the state Senate before returning to the Assembly in 2006, had been in failing health for the past several months.

"She was a trailblazer the New York Times once noted 'was at the forefront of virtually every Hispanic movement,' " said Bass, D-Los Angeles. "Assemblymember Soto will long be remembered for her fighting spirit and her efforts to protect California's drinking water from toxic contamination."

Prior to serving in the state Legislature, Assemblywoman Soto served for 12 years on the Pomona City Council. She was the first Latina from the San Gabriel Valley elected to the South Coast Air Quality Management District.

"During her years in the Legislature, Assemblywoman Soto was a champion for public safety, public schools and members of the military," said Paul M. Weber, president of the Los Angeles Police Protective League. "Nell was passionately involved in her community and she earned the respect of her colleagues for her involvement in so many issues.''

Her late husband, Philip, served two terms in the Assembly from 1962 to 66. She is survived by six children and 11 grandchildren.

Information on funeral services was not immediately available.