The following press release was sent today by Senator Pat Bates, California 36th Senate District, an outside organization. Lake Forest Shop & Dine does not edit press releases and we publish them to bring you direct information.

Coronavirus Update: FAQ’s And Resources

Dear Neighbor,

My staff and I continue our efforts to serve the people of the 36^th Senate District (North San Diego and South Orange Counties) during this very challenging time in our world.

We engage in several conference calls each day (while practicing social distancing) with state and local officials to ensure our region has the resources it needs to combat the coronavirus. We continue to respond to as many constituents as possible to answer questions.

While my last update to you advised of actions that the California Legislature and Governor had taken, many of the tools needed to help Californians recover from the current crisis must come from the federal government.

Thankfully, the President and Congress have approved a bipartisan $2 trillion relief package to help Americans. While there is a lot of misinformation about what the package does and does not include, I found this nonpartisan summary from the National Conference of State Legislatures to be very helpful. Click here to read it.

Please find below answers to some frequently asked questions (FAQ’s) that we have received, as well as links to several resources that can help you during this time. You can also follow me on social media for the latest updates:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram

Whether at the office or from our homes, my staff and I will continue to do all we can to serve our 36^th Senate District constituents.

Sincerely,

Pat

PATRICIA C. BATES
Senator, 36^th District

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

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.

Will the deadline to pay property taxes be extended?
While it is unlikely that the state will postpone the April 10 deadline for the second installment of property taxes because critical county services, school and local financial obligations are dependent on those scheduled revenues, counties can waive penalties, costs or other charges resulting from tax delinquency due to reasonable cause and circumstances related to this crisis. Contact your county for details.

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.

Note: The state’s coronavirus website has more FAQs that may be helpful to you. Click here to read them.