District Report - March 2021
Dear Neighbor,
It has been a year of sorrow and loss as we faced the worst public health crisis in a century. But it’s also been a year of heroism and selflessness. And now, with coronavirus infections waning, there are sure signs that we will beat this pandemic.
In the Legislature, we have approved resources to help families and small businesses get back on their feet. And I am working on priorities that existed before the virus such as wildfire safety, housing and education.
As I have over the past year, I continue to host monthly, virtual town halls so you can share your thoughts with me. My next town is April 13 and features Cal Fire Chief Thom Porter. Visit my website for details.
In this Issue:
- Coronavirus Update
- Women’s History Month & Women of the Year
- Free Tax Help/Earned Income Tax Credit
- In the News
As always, my office is available to help you with a state agency or answer any questions you might have. You can contact me by visiting my website.
Sincerely,
Bill Dodd
Senator, 3rd District
Coronavirus Update
As of this writing, more than 12 million Californians have received coronavirus vaccinations – and million more will be vaccinated in the coming months. The infection rate is steadily declining and it appears we are beating this pandemic. A year after the first stay-at-home orders were issued, we are now reopening our state, with children returning to some on-campus instruction and more businesses resuming operation.
To find out when you will be eligible for a vaccination, go here.
While we wait to receive vaccines, it is important to continue to take precautions as we wait for everyone to be vaccinated. Wear a mask when in public. Wash hands frequently. And avoid gathering of people outside your family. Continue to practice social distancing.
The decline in infections is a testament to the efficacy of these public health admonitions. So please, keep up the good work and stay safe. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
For more information, visit the California Department of Public Health website.
Women’s History Month & Women of the Year
March is National Women’s History Month, an ideal time for us to collectively acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of women who have shaped our nation. It’s also when we honor women of the North Bay who made outstanding contributions. The following are my Women of the Year for 2021:
Dr. Karen Relucio, Napa County’s public health officer, who was instrumental in leading the community’s coronavirus pandemic response.
Beth Hernandez, a Contra Costa Health Services project manager who oversaw key parts of her county’s virus testing and vaccine rollout.
Helen Pierson, owner of Solano County’s Medic Ambulance Service, a company on the front lines of assisting with the public health crisis.
Faith Ross, co-founder of Petaluma Blacks for Community Development and curator of the Black History Month exhibit in Petaluma who is involved with the Black Lives Matter Movement and the Sonoma County Commission on Human Rights.
Jenny Tan, Yolo County’s public information officer, who has kept her community updated on important developments during the coronavirus pandemic.
Sacramento County's Susanne Stirling, head of international activities for the California Chamber of Commerce, has been instrumental in fostering economic development and cooperation between the state and other countries during the pandemic.
Free Tax Help/Earned Income Tax Credit
Tax Day is fast approaching. You may qualify for tax credits or free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) or Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs, which are supported by the Franchise Tax Board.
You may qualify for tax credits. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) program will benefit millions of low income working families and can result in thousands of dollars for qualifying families. I helped champion the creation of California's EITC, which provides even more money to working families. Each year millions of dollars in tax credits go unclaimed, so see if you’re eligible.
For a list of upcoming workshops, please click here. I urge you to call the contact numbers listed to verify your eligibility, make appointments, and to learn what documentation may be required.
In the News
Here are some of the latest news stories that may be of interest to you. As always, please contact my office if you have any questions about state policy or want to express your position or ideas for legislation.
- Pushing through the pandemic challenge
- Sen. Dodd’s college student hunger bill clears committee
- Officials react to Newsom’s state of the state address
- Sen. Dodd’s wildfire bills approved in committee
- Sen. Dodd names Dr. Relucio Woman of the Year
- Local educators start receiving vaccinations
- State senator comments on Gov. Newsom’s plan to incentivize public schools
- Editorial: All Napa County needs to face the real threat of wildfire
- Legislation would make to-go cocktails, outdoor drinking, permanent
- Legislators representing Davis introduce 38 bills for 2021
- In our opinion: Food freedom bill floated in Sacramento