VIrus and the Valley

Preparing A New Season

September 17, 2020

As the air outside is still very unhealthy, and we begin to enter into the Fall, 2020 continues to bring on an unimaginable set of challenges, and these last few weeks are no exception. Just as we’re trying to get used to distance-learning regiments, limited opportunities for physical activity, and continuing to mind our latest Stay-At-Home guidelines, the raging wildfires and overall air quality have brought on a whole new set of personal tests for us. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has warned that most of our region will be affected by smoke with high concentrations of fine-particle pollution in areas closest to the Bobcat and El Dorado fires for quite some time. The Air Quality Management District, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have compiled a list of safety tips and advice to stay safe right now. Experts are also advising that we continue to stay indoors if possible, keeping our windows and doors closed, and to be prepared for local public health alerts.

Reaching the Finish Line

August 28, 2020

As we do our best to complete this year’s legislative work, I’m proud to have dramatically slimmed down my own bill package in order to focus like a laser on the state’s, and the Valley’s, most pressing needs during the pandemic. There is of course so much that needs addressing as we confront wildfires, electricity blackouts, social trauma, unemployment, eviction threats, and of course all the enormous health impacts of COVID-19.

Enduring “The Perfect Storm”

August 20, 2020

As we confront record breaking temperatures and exploding wildfires across our beautiful state, it feels like we’re living through “the perfect storm” - all while we’re still doing what we can to manage our day-to-day during this pandemic.

Governor Newsom recently reported that California has already had to fight over 6700 fires since the beginning of this year – which is roughly 2000 more than what we were dealing with at the same time last year. There are currently at least 23 major incidents, with 367 known fires burning statewide. It’s hot, smoky, and people are in need of relief.

Crunch time at the Capitol

August 11, 2020

It’s crunch time at the Capitol, and things are moving fast. Because of our Constitutional obligation to end our legislative session on August 31st, the Legislature is bound to honor a specific schedule, and that’s been an extraordinary challenge as we work to try to address as many of the problems caused by the pandemic as we can.

Here’s What’s Happening

July 30, 2020

The Legislature is back in Session, and because of all of the COVID-19-related delays we’ve had to keep up with, I won’t mince words…it’s been a real roller coaster! But it’s exciting to see so much progress happening at the Capitol and in the Valley, and I want to make sure you know what’s going on.

Rent & the Right Resources

July 23, 2020

When I first set out to create this newsletter, I wanted to make sure you are getting the latest information about COVID-19, and how its impacts are changing, and challenging, the ways we live in the Valley.

Virus and the Valley: Celebrate Safely This Holiday Weekend

July 2, 2020

As you know, over the last few days, the Governor and leading health experts have shown increasing concern that the Coronavirus is spreading throughout California at an alarming rate. With the holiday weekend in our sights, I know the temptation to go out and celebrate with friends and family the way we have always done this time of year is incredibly tempting. But as frustrating as it is for all of us, 2020 is painfully different.  This virus is making clear it is not going away any time soon, so it’s up to each of us to do our part to protect ourselves and our neighbors.

Virus and the Valley: Budget Updates & Other Info

June 30, 2020

We are well into summer, and while we continue to fight COVID-19, even I can feel like some things remain the same from day-to-day. But the good news is, our work has not stopped at the Capitol, and especially in the San Fernando Valley. I look forward to sharing with you the progress we are making in order to ensure that our economy, and our community, is coming back stronger, and more together, than ever.

Virus and the Valley: Keeping You Informed

June 25, 2020

There is a lot of understandable concern about the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the San Fernando Valley, throughout California, and across the country. This is a stark reminder that the battle against this global pandemic is far from over.

Virus and the Valley: Updates From the Capitol

June 23, 2020

I hope that you and your loved ones are staying well and looking forward to the coming week. As I have mentioned before, it’s important to me and my team that you know what is happening at the State Capitol. Even during this incredible time, my office is getting things done, and I want to share what we’ve been able to accomplish so far for California.