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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Thanks to the collective effort and sacrifice made by community members across California, we have made progress in slowing the spread of this virus, ensuring our hospital system is not overwhelmed, and protecting the lives of each and every one of us.
The California Department of Public Health made the decision to return the state to its tier system that will allow for the expansion of our businesses and activities with safety precautions in place, including limited service of our personal care services, outdoor operations of gyms and fitness centers, and outdoor dining.
With the Bay Area region under the strict stay-at-home order for more than six weeks, the decision to lift this order will provide huge relief to our workers, families, and businesses that have been severely impacted.
This decision from our Public Health Department was not made lightly. The threshold for a region to exit the order - ICU capacity surpassing 15% - is projected to be made in all regions still under the order, including the Bay Area, in the next four weeks.
While we have saved a countless number of lives, our work is not done yet, and we must remember to remain vigilant in our efforts to not lose the progress we have achieved. I am confident that our community will continue to practice measures that will keep us safe. Today's move to a tier system is another indicator that our collective actions are working.
Learn more about the changes from the State at this link.
Learn more about what is now open in Santa Clara County.
Covered CA Open Enrollment Available Now!
The 2021 Open Enrollment deadline for Covered California is approaching. Millions of Californians have enrolled in affordable high quality health coverage through Covered California since the landmark program began, resulting in around a 10% increase in the amount of Californians who have health insurance.
The Open Enrollment period ends on January 31st so be sure you or a family member are able to enroll or make changes to a Covered California plan as needed.
To enroll in a plan or make changes, visit the Covered California website or call toll-free 800 300-1506.
Property Tax Postponement Deadline is Almost Here
The deadline to apply for California's Property Tax Postponement (PTP) program for the 2020-21 tax year is February 10, 2021.
This program administered by the California State Controller allows homeowners who are seniors, are blind, or have a disability and who meet eligibility requirements to delay payment of property taxes on their primary residence.
In the 2019-2020 tax year, California homeowners were able to postpone more than $4 million in residential property taxes.
Applications and additional program details can be found online or by calling (800) 952-5661.
Santa Clara County FREE COVID-19 Testing Locations
Santa Clara Valley Medical Center continues to offer free drop-in and appointment-based COVID-19 testing at several locations across the county. Residents can book an appointment for various sites in Vietnamese, Chinese, Spanish, or English. See below or visit www.sccfreetest.org for this week's schedule.
State Resources Posted on My Website
State resources and services available during the pandemic have been posted on my new website: sd15.sen.ca.gov. Just click on the "COVID-19" link under the "Resources" tab of my website to get connected to some of the most frequently used state resources, including resources for businesses and employers, students, those in need of housing and financial assistance, and more.
As always, please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, comments, or concerns. I can be reached at senator.cortese@sen.ca.gov.
With all my love and labor,
Thank you,
Dave Cortese
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