Dear neighbor,

Each year, on the third Monday of January, we take a day to reflect on our history, remember our values and give back to our community in honor of Dr. King’s great legacy of service. He and countless fellow Americans fought incessantly against prejudiced views and discrimination in order to promote equal rights and privileges for everyone regardless of the color of their skin, social class or other background.

While there have been many victories on the path to equity and justice for all since Dr. King shared his vision with the world, there is still a long road ahead to fulfilling the dream he had for our country. The events we witnessed at our Nation’s Capitol last week were a stark reminder of just how much farther we must go, and how important it is that we recommit to these values as a country.

This year, on MLK Day of service, I invite you to think about this one question: how can you help create social justice, equality and opportunity for all in your community?  We need to come together as a nation with a greater purpose. There is no stronger calling than that of serving, helping, caring for and uplifting one another. So, let’s embrace this day of reflection and service and begin thinking about how we can make a difference together.

Before we go on our respective journeys of thought and inspiration, I also wanted to share with you some quick updates and resources:

• Sen. Lena Gonzalez Becomes First Latina to Be Appointed Chair of the California State Senate Transportation Committee: I am honored and grateful that Senate President pro Tempore Atkins has appointed me as the new Chair of the Transportation Committee. During my time in this Chairmanship, I will support the economic success of the transportation sector in California and place strong emphasis on environmental safeguards to protect the health and quality of life for all residents impacted by transportation. To learn more about my role and this committee, visit the Senate Committee on Transportation website.
• 2021-22 State Budget Proposal: Governor Gavin Newsom submitted his 2021-22 state budget proposal to the Legislature on January 8^th, 2021. The proposal provides record funding for education, continued funding for COVID-19 testing and vaccines, supports for small businesses and more. For details visit http://www.ebudget.ca.gov/. 
• Unemployment Benefits Top FAQs:  
  • When will I get the extra $300 a week in unemployment benefits?
  • Do I need to reopen my claim or contact the EDD to receive the extra 11 weeks of federal unemployment benefits?
  • Why is my EDD Debit Card/Account frozen?

Find answers at: https://edd.ca.gov/about_edd/coronavirus-2019/faqs.htm

• California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program: Need help applying? Check out this free, pre-recorded webinar in English and Spanish. For more tips and information visit the CA Relief Grant website.
• Rent Relief: The LA County 2021 Rent Relief Program is under development. If you are in need of rent relief, sign up to be notified when the application opens and for other updates here.
• Vaccine Update: Curious about the COVID-19 vaccine rollout? Want to know when you will be eligible to receive the vaccine?  Find out at LA County’s Public Health website.
  • Still have more questions you’d like to ask? Join LA County Department of Public Health for a COVID-19 Vaccine Town Hall on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
  • If you’d like to submit questions before the Town Hall, fill out this form.
  • Watch the Town Hall on LA County’s Public Health Facebook, Twitter or YouTube.
• Stay Up to Date! Do you want more frequent updates and important resource information for Senate District 33? Follow me on Facebook and Twitter!

Know that I am here for you and that I stand strongly beside you in the fight for social justice, equality and opportunity for all. If there is any support I can provide you please do not hesitate to contact my office. You can reach us at (562) 256-7921 or send us a message here.

In unity, 

Lena Gonzalez
33rd State Senate District