We are living through an extraordinary public health event. Millions are without jobs, and schools are closed. Thousands of Californians have tested positive for the COVID-19 coronavirus; most are recovering at home and others are hospitalized. Sadly, more than one thousand of our fellow Californians have died from this virus.
The uplifting news is that California is doing well in weathering this pandemic. Our state’s statistics of those infected are lower than those in other states and countries. And personal protection equipment have been purchased to safeguard nurses, doctors and first responders.
Eventually, our economy will re-open. There must be a roadmap to recovery so Californians can work. Families need to put food on the table and pay their rent and mortgage. Put simply, Californians need to continue living their best lives.
In the meantime, my staff and I continue to work to help residents address unemployment claims for those who lost their jobs, help small businesses get the help they require, DMV matters and other state issues.
Please utilize the resources and information below to help navigate these challenging times. You can also call my office.
Stay safe and healthy.
Jim Nielsen
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long will Governor Newsom’s “Stay at Home” order stay in effect?
The Governor’s order, which went into effect on March 19, 2020, is in place until further notice from him.
What businesses and organizations are exempt from the Governor’s order?
Click here to see the full list.
Do I need to pay my state and federal taxes?
Yes. However, the deadlines to FILE and PAY federal and state income taxes have both been extended to July 15, 2020.
What’s being done to restock grocery stores?
My office is in touch with the California Grocers Association to ensure everything is being done to keep our grocery stores stocked with essential items. Food and essential supplies remain available and are flowing through the supply chain as quickly as possible. The bare shelves we sometimes see do not indicate a lack of supply. It is a temporary result of consumers overbuying. The Grocers Association advises that everyone can help stop this unnatural cycle of demand by simply buying only what they need.
How do I file for unemployment?
File online with the California Employment Development Department.
Note: The state’s coronavirus website has more FAQ that may be helpful to you. Click here to read them.
Key Resources
State of California COVID-19 Website
Official state website with information about the virus and links to several state resources.
California Employment Development Department (EDD)
The EDD provides a variety of support services to individuals who are sick or quarantined, have reduced work hours, who are self-employed, or have been affected by closures due to the coronavirus.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
The SBA is working directly with state governors to provide targeted, low-interest loans to small businesses and non-profits that have been severely affected by the coronavirus.
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)
The DMV has asked California law enforcement to exercise discretion for 60 days in their enforcement of driver license and vehicle registration expiration dates beginning March 16, 2020. 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.
California Volunteers
Every Californian can safely help their community during this difficult time. You can make a difference by delivering meals to vulnerable populations, donating to a food bank, supporting local nonprofits, performing wellness checks, creating hygiene kits, and donating blood to help people affected by the coronavirus.
Los Angeles Times Coronavirus Tracking Map
The Los Angeles Times has created a live-tracking map of all cases in California.
Keep Education Going
As schools across California close indefinitely, there are online resources that parents and guardians can share with their children so they can continue to learn.
California COVID-19 Response Spending
List of state government expenditures related to COVID-19.
More Resources
Government COVID-19 Websites
Public Health Information
Taxes
Insurance and Health Care
DMV, Housing, and Education
- California Department of Motor Vehicles
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
- California Department of Housing and Community Development
- California Department of Education
- Keep Education Going (State Senate resource for parents with young kids)
Small Business
- U.S. Small Business Administration
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- California Employment Development Department
- California Labor and Workforce Development Agency
- Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development
- National Small Business Administration
Nonprofits
Mental Health, Veterans, and Other Crisis Hotlines
