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Coronavirus: COVID-19 & State Resources

As you may already know, State and Local leaders across California are ramping up their efforts to provide resources to our communities in order to combat the novel COVID-19, more commonly known as Coronavirus. Information on COVID-19 is changing at a rapid pace. As our Community and the State is adapting to these changes, I have provided you with a list of information and resources to help you get some assistance and guidance as you prepare for the upcoming weeks of uncertainty.

The Governor just launched a COVID-19, one stop website: https://covid19.ca.gov/

However, if you are in need of assistance, please contact my District Office at (818) 504-3911, or my Capitol Office at (916) 319-2039.

You can stay connected with me here:

LIST OF STATE RESOURCES

CENSUS
The 2020 Census remains a top priority! California is particularly vulnerable to an undercount since three out of four of residents belong to populations that are historically undercounted. As a state, we can lose irreplaceable federal funding for schools, public assistance, transportation and other programs if we do not fill out the Census form.

The 2020 California Census is here. You should have already received an invitation via mail to fill out your form online. As the Coronavirus is becoming a worry for Californians, it is important to keep in mind that you do not have to have contact with a Census worker to fill out your Census. There are three easy and quick ways to fill out the Census without you leaving home or having contact with anyone:

If you are a student and are afraid you will not be counted during the Coronavirus pandemic, the United States Census Bureau, released this statement: https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2020/modifying-2020-operations-for-counting-college-students.html

The Coronavirus is showing us the importance of having the resources to tackle emergencies. Remember that you and your family count! Don’t forget to fill out your Census and BE COUNTED!

DMV ALLOWS CUSTOMERS TO AVOID VISITS TO OFFICES

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the California Department of Motor Vehicles has asked California law enforcement to exercise discretion for 60 days in their enforcement of driver license and vehicle registration expiration dates. The DMV is taking this action so that at-risk populations, including seniors and those with underlying health conditions, can avoid required visits to DMV field offices for driver license or vehicle registration renewals. Fore more information, please visit:  https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/pubs/newsrel/2020/2020_12

In times like this, it is important to stress that your health is the most important thing right now. Although the REAL ID’s deadline is, October 1, 2020 there is still many things you can do from home to start the process without going to the DMV.

  • You can start filling out the form online
  • You can start gathering all the documents you will need for your appointment
  • Once the Coronavirus crisis is averted, you can make an appointment or simply go to the nearest DMV.

    Pacoima Driver License Processing Center (walk-in only)
    11623 Glenoaks Blvd, Pacoima, CA 91331

    Arleta DMV
    14400 Van Nuys Blvd, Arleta, CA 91331
     
  • You can utilize many services online without leaving your house. Visit their website and find out if what you need to do is just as simple as a click.

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE, DISABILITY, AND PAID FAMILY LEAVE

There is a growing consensus that people should remain home, so we must address how this will affect workers. If you are unable to work due to the Coronavirus outbreak, you may be eligible for benefits.

SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA) DISASTER LOANS NOW AVAILABLE

If you own a small business or run a private, non-profit organization in designated areas of California and have been affected by the response to COVID-19, you may be eligible for a low-interest federal loan. The United States Small Business Administration (SBA) has opened their disaster assistance application process to specific regions affected by COVID-19. The SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans of up to $2 million in assistance to cover a temporary loss of revenue. You can find more information, check eligible disaster areas, or apply online now.

Small businesses may also be eligible for loans through California State entities. Visit the California Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank website to learn more.

Visit the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development’s COVID-19’s page for links to other valuable resources.

SENIOR RESOURCES

The COVID-19 novel Coronavirus is projected to hit seniors harder than any other population. The Governor has issued an order that requires seniors to stay at home unless traveling for medical necessity or to pick up food or other needed supplies. The best thing you can do at this time is to stay home, stay informed and review the following:

PRICE GOUGING

At a time when Californians should be pulling together (while maintaining social distance), some are attempting to exploit the pandemic at the expense of everyone else. As such, California Attorney General Xavier Becerra issued a consumer alert declaring that price gouging is illegal in all CA communities when a state of emergency is declared. If you think you’ve been the victim of price gouging, or have information regarding potential price gouging, you can file a complaint with the Attorney General Office by calling (800) 952-5225.

To avoid becoming a victim, here are some tips to think about:

  • If you must go shopping, plan ahead. Being a mindful shopper can help make sure there are supplies for everyone. Keeping a little extra of your typical supply will go a long way.
  • When you go shopping, only shop from places you trust. Many of us shop online or have subscription services that deliver items to our homes, but in times like these online marketplaces can be tricky. Check to see if the product has reviews, or try to compare other prices online.
  • The widespread panic about the uncertain future has caused many people to buy in large quantities that they may not end up using. So please, avoid hoarding so that scammers and price gougers have less of an opportunity to engage.
  • If you are skeptical about the price of a product, do not buy it.

STATE TAX FILING DEADLINE EXTENSION FOR CORONAVIRUS RELIEF

The Franchise Tax Board (FTB) has announced that the deadline for individuals, partnerships and LLCs to file and pay STATE taxes has been extended till June 15, 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The IRS has extended federal filing times until July 15, 2020. Please see FTB news release  and go to their FAQ page for updates.

You can still file Federal taxes for free at: https://www.irs.gov/filing/free-file-do-your-federal-taxes-for-free

PERSONAL NOTE

Not all heroes wear capes. California would not be the place it is without our healthcare professionals such as our first responders, doctors, nurses, law enforcement officers, in-home supportive service providers, grocery workers, delivery drivers, truck driver, essential employees, and volunteers. These are members of our community. As they risk their safety by serving our community during the Coronavirus outbreak, we need to take the time to acknowledge and thank them for their hard work and daily sacrifice to ensure that the needs of our communities are met.

It is my pleasure to serve you.

Respectfully,

LUZ RIVAS
Assembywoman, 39th District

 

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