Greetings!

This week in Orange County I toured the COVID-19 vaccine site at Soka University, and two schools that have opened safely for in-person instruction. I also had the chance to meet with a number of local groups, who shared their priorities with me and my staff. Next week I will be back in Washington, DC and it’s shaping up to be another busy week.

Today, Friday, February 19th, also marks the anniversary of Executive Order 9066, which forced thousands of Japanese Americans into internment camps during WWII. As hate crimes against the Asian American community have been on the rise, this day serves as an important reminder of the very real and negative impact that hate and racism has had on our community. 

I’ll be using this newsletter as a way to keep you up to date on my work on behalf of our Orange County community, so make sure you sign up for regular updates. You can also connect with my official Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages, where I’ll be posting the latest news and updates.
Serving California's 48th District
COVID-19 Vaccines in OC
This week I toured the Super Point of Dispensing (POD) site at Soka University to get a firsthand look at the vaccine efforts in Orange County. I am so grateful for the volunteers for their time and dedication to our community. The goal is to have five POD sites across Orange County to best serve residents throughout the various phases of vaccination administration. Click here for updates.
Did you know that 35% of the vaccines distributed to California remain unused? Increasing vaccine availability is key to returning to our normal way of life, which is why I joined my colleagues in a letter to Gavin Newsom requesting answers and transparency on vaccine distribution efforts in California. Read the letter here.
Getting Kids Back in the Classroom
This week I toured two schools that have reopened safely for in-person instruction. I spent time at Gisler Elementary School in Fountain Valley, and The Hebrew Academy in Huntington Beach. Both schools have implemented measures to ensure students, parents, and teachers are safe. I am so grateful to educators and parents who are working hard to provide a safe environment for Orange County’s students and get our kids back in the classroom. Read more.
Addressing Unemployment Fraud Concerns
Two weeks ago, I sent a letter to Governor Newsom requesting answers on the widespread unemployment fraud in California. Unfortunately, I have yet to receive an answer on how his administration plans to address the concerns many Californians have about being taxed for benefits they did not receive or those who have suddenly had their benefits suspended due to suspected fraud. I want to hear directly from you about this issue.
Have you or someone you know been impacted by unemployment fraud in California?
Yes
No
Your Voice in DC
Expanding Opportunity Zones
Opportunity zones were created in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and are an economic development tool used to drive private investment in economically-distressed communities. This week I cosponsored bipartisan legislation that would extend the program date – currently set to expire in 2026 – by two years to give investors additional time to support projects and to encourage higher levels of investment in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Honoring Capitol Police
Our Capitol Police officers protect members, staff, and visitors every day. They were also the first on the frontlines during the violent insurrection on our Capitol on January 6th. These brave men and women deserve our respect and support, which is why I was proud to cosponsor a bill that would award our Capitol Police a Congressional Gold Medal. Read more.
COVID-19 Updates
Small Businesses
The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the U.S. Treasury Department has reopened the Paycheck Protection Program loan portal for first- and second-time borrowers. If you’re a small business owner, check out the SBA’s website for the most up to date resources and guidance. 


Economic Impact Payments
The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 includes a second round of Economic Impact Payments for qualified individuals making up to $75,000 per year.

The second round of payments, or “EIP 2,” is generally $600 for singles and $1,200 for married couples filing a joint return. Most of these payments will be made by direct deposit. For those who are eligible for a second EIP and haven’t yet received a direct deposit, watch your mail for either a paper check or a debit card.


Visit my website for a list of COVID-19 updates and resources.
In the News
McCarthy, California Republicans call out Newsom over vaccine rollout: 'We fear more Californians may die'
"We write to express our serious concerns regarding the State of California’s slow, opaque decision-making process, and ever-changing approach to distributing COVID vaccines, which has been met with confusion and frustration by our constituents, local public health officials, and front-line health care providers," the members of Congress wrote. Read more. 
Sincerely,
Rep. Michelle Steel
Member of Congress