Virus and the Valley

Working For Today, Tomorrow, and Beyond

April 15, 2021

A big part of what drives my work is looking at the big picture. As you may know, my legislative bill package this year seeks to resolve many ongoing challenges in California, from improving care for homeless people and their pets, developing stronger drought resiliency plans, and more. Criminal justice reform is incredibly important to me, and I am continuing this fight for fairness during the current legislative season.

Getting Ready To Reopen In The Valley

April 8, 2021

It feels as though we have reached a pinnacle moment in the fight against the coronavirus in the Valley, and all across California. To date, millions of people have already received their first shot, and for those who have already qualified, there are more opportunities to receive the COVID-19 vaccination growing every day.

Vaccine Updates For The Valley

April 1, 2021

There has been a lot of information circulating about vaccine availability and eligibility.  It is important to know that starting today - April 1, California residents who are 50 years and older can begin to book an appointment with the City of L.A. vaccine resource page or the State’s MyTurn website. Two weeks from now, (April 15), all adults in California will be eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine.

Welcoming Spring & Preparing for Passover

March 25, 2021

Happy Spring, dear reader! Passover begins this weekend, marking the second year in a row that we will observe the holiday during the pandemic. Many of us will have empty seats at Seder, either due to the tragic loss of loved ones, or need to continue social distancing. Passover focuses on freedom, spring and rebirth - all themes that are especially relevant now. Out of darkness comes hope and light. Last Passover, we were at the beginning of our new COVID normal. Our celebrations may still look different this year, but we are getting closer to being together again for Seders and other celebrations, observances and milestones.

Celebrating Our 2021 WOTY

March 18, 2021

One of the biggest challenges we have faced during this pandemic is maintaining traditions, while keeping socially distanced.  Although not ideal, technology allows us to carry on with annual events.  One such occasion is the Legislature’s Woman of the Year ceremony. This week the State Senate honored Madeleine Fugate as the San Fernando Valley’s 2021 Woman of the Year.

Our Legislative Outlook for 2021

March 11, 2021

Many of you want to know more about what legislation I am offering this year. Put on your seatbelts, because it’s not for nothing that people call me one of the hardest working state legislators. I have a robust legislative agenda for the 2021 session, and my Bill Package for 2021 is now available online for your review. From electricity reliability to drought resiliency, helping homeless pets and continuing my fight for bail reform, I have introduced a broad spectrum of measures that will help get us back on track to being one of the most economically powerful regions in the entire world. 

Effective Collaboration Counts in CA

March 4, 2021

We are coming up on the one-year anniversary of when Coronavirus changed our lives. Together, we worked to curb the spread, while scientists developed safe and effective vaccines. The vaccine rollout is underway and expanding. Now it is time to work together to protect our teachers and staff, while safely getting our children back in school.

Reaching Out With Resources

February 25, 2021

It has been a whirlwind of activity at the State Capitol this week, and I want to keep you updated.

I have introduced all of the bills I have planned for our Legislative Session. There are many priorities I am working to accomplish, and I am eager to keep you in the loop as the Legislative process progresses. From pet protections for homeless individuals to drought resiliency, and strengthening the path to home ownership, we are tackling issues that will impact our future in the Valley, and throughout California, for decades to come.

Immediate Action Package Coming To the Valley

February 18, 2021

It is hard to believe that it has been nearly been a year since COVID-19 changed the way we live. To assist so many of those that are suffering, and ensure California regains economic stability, the Legislature has joined with the Governor to announce a $9.6 Billion Immediate Action Stimulus Agreement that will deliver much-needed funding for those experiencing pandemic hardship throughout our State. This stimulus package of immediate actions includes:

Doing More For Our Health & Safety

February 11, 2021

During this tumultuous time, connecting with you through this newsletter is one the best ways we can inform each other, and prepare for any challenges sent our way.

Thanks to your dedication, and ideas, my team has helped distribute nearly 10 million Virus and the Valley (V&TV) emails - including a recent piece to remember the 50th anniversary of the Sylmar earthquake - and we are not slowing down! You are helping us stay tuned into what is happening - from health updates to financial support for local businesses, and feel-good stories coming right out of the Valley - you are letting us know what you want, and we are committed to delivering for you.