California Assembly Member and LA County Public Health Department Shares COVID-19 Updates with the Community

On the afternoon of March 16, California State Assemblyman Phillip Chen and representatives from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health hosted a press conference at KCAL Insurance Agency to share the latest COVID-19 updates in California and LA County with the media and the public.

As of this morning, Assemblyman Chen reported that four out of the 228 people diagnosed with coronavirus in California have resulted in death. There are currently 18 laboratories in California that can test for COVID-19. He mentioned that all government departments at all levels are working together to fight this epidemic. The Public Health Department urges the public to cancel or postpone all large gatherings and limit gatherings to 250 people. A six foot distance should be maintained between each person. Assemblyman Chen also stated that he is advocating for several bills to be put in place—this includes one that postpones the tax filing deadline to May or June, and another one that allocates a portion of state funding to residents to fight the epidemic.

Cristin Mondy, a representative from the Los Angeles Department of Public Health, stated that there are currently 40 diagnosed with coronavirus and one death in Los Angeles County. The Department of Public Health is working closely with the CDC and state government to further protect the public from the epidemic to prevent the situation from becoming worse. Public facilities and public transportation are still operating as usual. She reminds the public to make sure to wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and avoid physical contact with others. If you feel sick, stay home. If you have symptoms, seek medical help and consult your doctor for further instruction.

Yorba Linda Chamber of Commerce CEO Susan Wan-Ross introduced the various government resources small business owners and employees can seek during this epidemic. For example, employers can apply for EDD’s work sharing program and reduce employee working hours instead of laying off their employees. They can also apply for a 60-day extension for their tax return. They can also apply for disability insurance or paid leave if they are unable to work due to the coronavirus or to care for a sick family member due to the coronavirus. If the company shuts down, employees can also apply for unemployment insurance and receive unemployment insurance benefits.

KCAL Insurance Agency CEO Kenny Chang informed the public, especially business owners, that they can adjust their company’s commercial insurance policies to save money. He reminds all employers to take necessary safety measures to protect both their customers and their employees. KCAL is temporarily closing their doors to walk-ins but will still operate under the same business hours. They will still be able to serve clients online, through email, over the phone, or through WeChat, allowing customers to complete their services without leaving their home. Sanitation stations have also been set up at the entrances of each of their offices to protect the health and well-being of their employees.