Sen. Dodd issues pandemic ‘anniversary’ statement

It’s been a heartbreaking two years, filled with hardship and loss,” Sen. Dodd said. “We will never forget those who did not survive this terrible pandemic. Nor will we forget the healthcare providers and frontline workers who risked everything to keep us safe and to keep food on our tables. I’m encouraged by how people stepped up for each other, following public health guidelines on masking, social distancing and getting vaccinated. There’s no doubt about it – it saved lives and helped us get to where we are today. Challenges remain but we’ve made great progress toward recovery. I’m focused on improving the economy and continuing our public health progress.”

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on March 4, 2020 to assist in preparing for the spread of the virus. Following a series of public health orders, the first vaccinations rolled out 10 months later. The state fully reopened in June 2021. Today, more than 74% of Californians 5 and older are fully vaccinated.

Throughout the pandemic, the Legislature enacted necessary relief including sick leave for workers, rental assistance and small businesses grants. Sen. Dodd’s to-go cocktails bill, Senate Bill 389, provided a lifeline for the struggling restaurant industry. This year, Sen. Dodd introduced SB 979 to help California hospitals respond to public health crises including pandemics and other emergencies.

— State Senator Bill Dodd, Sacramento