Patch.com: The East Palo Alto organization was honored by state Sen. Josh Becker for its work to bridge the digital divide during the pandemic. "Rather than losing hope, amid the myriad of unprecedented challenges you all have had to tackle, you rose to the occasion. You ensured that education and economic opportunities were readily accessible to those truly in need of it."
In the News
San Mateo Daily Journal: “When I think about budget priorities and policies, I personally think about three things. One, are they going to enable equality of opportunity,” Senator Becker said. “Secondly, will they increase quality of life for my constituents and their families and people across California. And third, are we being responsible with the money entrusted to us.”
ABC 7/KGO-TV: The EDD is about to sweep clean the backlog of claims - and pay thousands of unemployed workers who've been waiting weeks and months for benefits. The plan has met with joy and a bit of skepticism. Several state lawmakers applauded the EDD's plan. "It's a huge relief that people across the board are finally getting help, finally getting their money," said State Senator Josh Becker.
Palo Alto Online: All of us are in a position to make our lives better by returning to health. Part of our journey back to normal after this lengthy disruption in our lives is to take care of ourselves...As more and more of us get vaccinated, we can speed the progress toward a post-pandemic world. Your local health care provider was there for you before the pandemic and is awaiting your return now.
San Mateo Daily Journal: The Big Lift, a collective project focused on improving literacy among San Mateo County children, received $1 million in state funding to support its various programs that it has continued through the pandemic.
Canary Media: Pending legislation in California, Senate Bill 68 introduced by Sen. Josh Becker (D), would direct funds to lower the consumer cost to switch from gas to electric appliances and provide subsidies to cover the costs of panel upgrades.
\San Mateo Daily Journal: “The City of Pacifica is also immensely grateful for Assemblymember Mullin’s and Sen. Becker’s joint request for funding in the state budget for the Pacifica Pier repair project,’’ Mayor Sue Beckmeyer said in a statement. “State funding will help restore the closed portion, and replace many other sections of deteriorating railing, to ensure the pier remains open and can continue to be available for all visitors to enjoy.”
San Francisco Chronicle: Underscoring how hard it is to reach the California agency responsible for unemployment benefits, the state Assembly authorized its 80 members to add two full-time staff members dedicated to helping constituents communicate with the Employment Development Department, following a similar move by the state Senate a few months ago…State Sen. Josh Becker, D-Menlo Park, said the real game-changer in interacting with EDD is that the agency now has dedicated a full-time liaison to work with his office...