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Category Archives: California

Tsunami Advisory issued for California’s coast this morning

Posted on by Posted in Beaches, California, Newport Beach, Public Safety Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Ca. (Jan. 15, 2022): A Tsunami Advisory has been issued by the National Tsunami Warning Center for the U.S. West Coast, including the San Diego County and Orange County coast. A volcanic eruption near the Tonga Islands of the South Pacific has generated a tsunami.

The first waves are expected to arrive in Orange County at approximately 7:55 a.m. Orange County beaches, harbors and piers are closed at this time until further notice, please check with your local city regarding closures.

Although no significant coastal flooding is expected, some areas could experience dangerous currents and tidal surges due to this tsunami along beaches and in harbors and marinas. The impact of this tsunami will be stronger than normal currents and possible higher than normal tidal surges along the beaches. Residents are encouraged to stay out of the water.

There will be strong outgoing tidal currents at the same time the tsunami arrives. The combined effect could produce very strong currents in harbors and bays. A Tsunami event is a series of waves that can last for several hours. The first wave is usually not the strongest.

Local Coastal Officials are monitoring the situation and directing all persons in the coastal areas to:

• Stay off the beaches and out of the harbors and marinas

· Do not go to the shore to observe the tsunami.

· Do not return to the coast until local emergency officials indicate it is safe to do so.

· Boat operators, where time and conditions permit, move your boat out to sea to a depth of at least 180 feet

• Local officials will determine when areas are safe to open

• Contact your local jurisdiction for more specific information

Do not call 9-1-1 unless you have a life-threatening emergency.

The Orange County Emergency Operations Center has been activated to a level three to monitor conditions and assist affected jurisdictions.

CA Senate Republicans call for a Special Session to combat the homeless crisis immediately

Posted on by Posted in California, homeless, Politics, Republican Party Leave a comment

SACRAMENTO – Today, Legislative Republicans in both the Senate and Assembly called on Governor Newsom to convene an Extraordinary Special Session of the Legislature to immediately address homelessness, rather than waiting for action through the traditional Legislative calendar for 2022.  

Led by Senator Patricia Bates (R-Laguna Niguel) and Assemblywoman Janet Nguyen (R-Huntington Beach), legislative Republicans highlighted some of the actions a Special Session could take to combat this crisis. 

“We have been wrestling with this problem for decades now, and it always seems to get worse,” said Senator Patricia Bates. “It’s time for real results, most of all for the countless homeless people suffering in our neighborhoods and communities. A Special Session will bring needed focus. We can, and must, do better.”

“California is spending more money on solving the homeless issue than ever before yet we have over 70,000 more people experiencing homelessness than the second closest state in the nation,” said Assemblymember Janet Nguyen. “My family and I experienced this shocking reality firsthand 3 nights ago when a homeless man on drugs attempted to break into our backyard. I am frightened for my children’s and family’s safety and the safety of all Californians. We must come together to discuss and find solutions to this growing problem. I look forward to the governor’s response.”

The following legislative Republicans signed onto the call for a special session. Click here to download the full letter.

Court agrees with the OCDA that DUI defendants are not eligible for diversion

Posted on by Posted in Alcohol, California, Crime, Drugs, OCDA, Orange County, Santa Ana Leave a comment

SANTA ANA, Calif. – In a published opinion issued Tuesday, the District Court of Appeal agreed with Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer that driving under the influence (DUI) defendants are not eligible for misdemeanor diversion under newly enacted Penal Code section 1001.95 because existing law already specifically prohibits granting diversion to DUI defendants, pursuant to Vehicle Code section 23640.

“Orange County is facing a crisis when it comes to drivers driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or both. Driving under the influence of drugs rose more than 40 percent and felony driving under the influence filings increased 25 percent during the pandemic. Anyone who gets behind the wheel of a motor vehicle after taking drugs or drinking has the potential of killing someone. That someone could be your husband or wife, your father or mother or even your child,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “Prosecutors must be able to hold drunk and drugged drivers accountable – to prevent first-time offenders from becoming repeat offenders – and to be able to charge repeat offenders with murder if they get behind the wheel impaired and they kill someone. Once diversion is completed, it’s as if the crime never happened – and those prior convictions wash out despite the fact that state law allows prior DUIs to be pled and proven for up to 10 years. They couldn’t be used as a prior – and the families whose lives were shattered by an impaired driver would not get the justice they deserve. This opinion not only corrects the reckless and misguided behavior of the state Legislature and Governor Newsom, it will undoubtedly save innocent lives.”

This is the first published opinion by the Court of Appeal on the issue in the state and clarifies the limits of Penal Code section 1001.95, which gave judges broad discretion to grant diversion to misdemeanor defendants with very few exceptions. Defendants charged with driving under the influence were not specifically prohibited from a grant of diversion under the new law.

For that reason, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office along with the California District Attorneys Association (CDAA) and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) fought vigorously to defeat AB 3234 (Ting). Despite those efforts, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law, which went into effect as Penal Code section 1001.95 on January 1, 2021.

In his September 30, 2020 signing statement for AB 3234, Governor Newsom wrote that he was concerned that DUIs were not excluded from diversion eligibility by the new law and promised to expeditiously remedy the issue in the next Legislative session.

To date, it has not been remedied by the Legislature.

Misdemeanor DUI defendants immediately began filing petitions for diversion under the new law. Among those was Nancy Grassi, who was charged by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office with driving under the influence of drugs in 2019.

In February 2021, Grassi filed a motion for misdemeanor diversion under the new misdemeanor diversion law. Her request was denied after Orange County prosecutors argued Vehicle Code section 23640, which was enacted in 1998, already prohibits driving under the influence defendants from receiving diversion. Grassi sought review in the Court of Appeal.

Presiding Justice Kathleen E. O’Leary of the Court of Appeal, Fourth Appellate District, Division Three, wrote the unanimous published opinion in Grassi v. The Superior Court of Orange County, affirming that driving under the influence defendants are not eligible for court-initiated misdemeanor diversion pursuant to Penal Code section 1001.95 because Vehicle Code section 23640’s specific language – which prohibits diversion for any DUI defendant under any circumstances – still applies.

As a result, the current state of the law in California is that DUI defendants are categorically ineligible for diversion.

A copy of the published DCA opinion in Grassi v. The Superior Court of Orange County can be found here: https://www.courts.ca.gov/opinions/documents/G060362.PDF

Deputy District Attorney George Turner of the Writs & Appeals Unit argued this case.

Unlicensed O.C. insurance agent charged with more than 80 felony counts for stealing customers’ premiums

Posted on by Posted in California, Crime, Fraud, Insurance, OCDA Leave a comment

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. — Juan Carlos Martinez, 56, of Yorba Linda, has been charged with 12 counts of grand theft, 34 felony counts of forgery, 34 counts of insurance fraud, and one count of money laundering, after allegedly collecting premium payments from customers and forging bogus insurance documents he then provided to his victims as proof of insurance.

“Fraud ultimately hurts consumers and our recovering economy. These charges serve as a warning to all that insurance fraud is a crime and punishable in a court of law,” said Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara. “My department is dedicated to investigating and stopping unlicensed unscrupulous agents to protect California’s consumers and businesses.”

Martinez, a former licensed insurance broker, doing business as Leeds Insurance Services, Inc., allegedly embezzled more than $27,000 from customers and diverted the funds to a personal investment account where he withdrew the funds as cash. By failing to place coverage for commercial general liability insurance policies, Martinez left his victims exposed to significant financial losses and liability.

Martinez was arrested by the Buena Park Police Department at a booth in the Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village. He was booked into Orange County Jail and bail was set at $25,000. This case was investigated by the California Department of Insurance and is being prosecuted by the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. Martinez’ insurance license expired in September 2016 for failure to renew.

Consumers can check the status of an insurance agent’s license at www.insurance.ca.gov. If a consumer feels they are being treated unfairly by an insurance company or if they might be a victim of fraud, they can call the Department of Insurance’s help line at 800-927-4357 (HELP).

Workers owed wages can now file a claim online with the CA Labor Commissioner

Posted on by Posted in Business, California, Labor Leave a comment

Oakland— The Labor Commissioner’s Office has launched an online wage claim application in English and Spanish for workers who believe they are owed wages or benefits.

“With the legislature’s support, California’s workforce gained a valuable resource in the online wage claim application,” said Labor Commissioner Lilia García-Brower. “Workers are now able to take swift action to file wage theft complaints, neutralizing several obstacles that historically have been barriers to accessing basic protections.”

A link to the new online wage claim application can be found on the Labor Commissioner’s How to File a Wage Claim webpage. New users must create an account with a user name and password. After creating an account, claimants can access forms to file a wage claim for various types of wage theft. The system allows users to upload forms and documents such as copies of paychecks, paystubs and bounced checks.

Once a wage claim is filed, the system will send an email with confirmation of the claim’s submission. The system also has a dashboard view for filers, which shows claims filed and draft claims, and provides information on conferences and hearings that are scheduled in the filer’s case(s).

The online program is accessible from any computer, tablet or phone. Workers can still file a wage claim in person, by mail, fax or email.

Workers who have experienced or observed wage theft or other widespread labor law violations can also file a Report oWorkers who have experienced or observed wage theft or other widespread labor law violations can also file a Report of Labor Law Violation online. Employees with work-related questions or complaints may contact the Labor Commissioner’s Office Call Center in English or Spanish at 833 LCO-INFO (833 526-4636).

The Department of Industrial Relations’ Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (the California Labor Commissioner’s Office) combats wage theft and unfair competition by investigating allegations of illegal and unfair business practices.

The campaign amplifies basic protections and builds pathways to impacted populations so workers and employers understand legal protections and obligations, and the Labor Commissioner’s enforcement procedures. Californians can follow the Labor Commissioner on Facebook and Twitter.

California is mandating face masks indoors again as COVID-19 numbers rise

Posted on by Posted in California, Disease, Health and Medical, Public Safety 1 Comment

SACRAMENTO –The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) continues to monitor COVID-19 data in order to protect the health and well-being of all Californians. Since Thanksgiving, the statewide seven-day average case rate has increased by almost half (47%) and hospitalizations have increased by 14%. In response to the increase in cases and hospitalizations, and to slow the spread of both Delta and the highly transmissible Omicron variant, CDPH has issued updated guidance to curb the spread of COVID-19 and its variants.

Beginning December 15, CDPH will require masks to be worn in all indoor public settings irrespective of vaccine status through January 15, 2022, at which point California will make further recommendations as needed in response to the pandemic.

Additionally, CDPH updated requirements for attending mega events, like concerts and sporting events. Prior to attending an event, attendees will now require either proof of vaccination, a negative antigen COVID-19 test within one day of the event, or a negative PCR test within two days of the event.

CDPH also issued a new travel advisory effective immediately to recommend that all travelers arriving in California test for COVID-19 within three to five days after arrival, regardless of their vaccination status.

“Our collective actions can save lives this holiday season. We are already seeing a higher level of transmission this winter and it is important to act now to prevent overwhelming our busy hospitals so we can provide quality health care to all Californians. All Californians should get vaccinated and receive their booster. Getting your whole family up to date on vaccination is the most important action you can take to get through the pandemic and to protect yourself from serious impacts from the virus and its variants. Testing and masking remain important tools in slowing the spread,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer. “Starting Wednesday, California will require masking in all public indoor places during the holiday season regardless of vaccination status. Attendees of large events will be required to show either proof of vaccination, a negative antigen COVID-19 test within one day of the event, or a negative PCR test within two days of the event. Additionally, California has issued a travel alert to recommend that all travelers get tested within three to five days of their arrival in California. Vaccines and these temporary measures will allow friends and families to safely spend the holidays together and will add critical layers of protection to keep people safe.”

Statewide COVID-19 Data

Today, the California Department of Public Health(CDPH) released the most recent statistics on COVID-19 and updates on the state’s pandemic response. The most up to date data is available on the state’s COVID-19 data dashboard.

Cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are largely occurring among unvaccinated populations. See the data for unvaccinated and vaccinated cases, hospitalizations and deaths.

  • Unvaccinated people were 7.1 times more likely to get COVID-19 (data from November 21, 2021 to November 27, 2021 ).
  • Unvaccinated people were 12.5 times more likely to be hospitalized with COVID-19 (data from November 14, 2021 to November 20, 2021).
  • Unvaccinated people were 13.0 times more likely to die from COVID-19 (data from November 7, 2021 to November 13, 2021).

Vaccinations

  • 61,315,927 total vaccines administered.
  • 77.7% of the eligible population (5+) has been vaccinated with at least one dose.
  • 210,409 people a day are receiving COVID-19 vaccination (average daily dose count over 7 days). 

Cases

  • California has 4,886,509 confirmed cases to date.
  • Today’s average case count is 5,825 (average daily case count over 7 days). 

Testing

  • The testing positivity rate is 2.2 % (average rate over 7 days). 

Hospitalizations

  • There are 3,804 hospitalizations statewide.
  • There are 967 ICU patients statewide. 

Deaths

  • There have been 74,685 COVID-19 deaths since the start of the pandemic.
  • COVID-19 claims the lives of 51 Californians each day (average daily death count over 7 days).

Omicron Variant

The recent emergence of the Omicron variant emphasizes the importance of getting a vaccine, booster, and taking prevention efforts needed to protect against COVID-19. As of December 12, 2021, 24 confirmed cases associated with the Omicron variant have been reported to the state. This number will be updated weekly with the other variants California is currently monitoring on the CDPH Tracking Variants webpage. For more information about the Omicron variant, see the Omicron variant fact sheet.

Stop the Spread: Get Vaccinated for COVID-19

The risk for COVID-19 exposure and infection continues as a number of Californians remain unvaccinated. Real-world evidence continues to show that the vaccine is preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death. With the combination of colder weather keeping people indoors, the waning of vaccine and natural immunity, and more mingling among non-household members, public health officials urge Californians to get vaccinated and boosted as soon as possible to help prevent a possible winter surge in COVID-19 cases.

It is recommended that every vaccinated adult 18 years or older should get a booster as long as they received their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least six months ago or they received their Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago.

Vaccination appointments can be made by visiting myturn.ca.gov or calling 1-833-422-4255. The consent of a parent or legal guardian may be needed for those under age 18 to receive a vaccination. Visit Vaccinate All 58 to learn more about the safe and effective vaccines available for all Californians 5+.

Your Actions Save Lives

Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures:

  • Celebrate safely: Take commonsense steps this holiday season to protect yourself, your family and your community as you celebrate the holiday season.
  • Upgrade your mask: Good fit and filtration continue to be the best way to get the most out of your mask. The best masks for preventing COVID-19 include the N95, KN95 and KF94. If you don’t have access to one of these masks, wear a surgical mask or a surgical mask with a cloth mask on top. If you choose a fabric mask, opt for one with three of more cloth layers. No matter what kind of mask you wear, check the fit by avoiding gaps above the nose or on the sides.
  • Get vaccinated for COVID-19 and flu: It’s your turn now! It’s recommended for everyone over six months of age to be vaccinated for the flu. For COVID-19, Californians age 5+ are eligible to make appointments or go to a walk-in site for vaccination. You can get your flu and COVID-19 vaccines on the same day.
  • My Vaccine Record is an easy way to show vaccination status at venues or businesses that require proof of vaccination. Visit myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov today to get your vaccine record.
  • Stay Home & Get Tested if Sick: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches), or believe you have been exposed,  get tested, call your health care provider, and stay home and away from others. Free, confidential testing is available statewide. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home from work and school if you feel ill.
  • Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Travel tips: Delay travel (both domestic and international) until you are fully vaccinated. If you must travel before being fully vaccinated, consider getting tested before and after travel. See the CDC’s full travel guidance.
  • Avoid crowded venues or areas when cases are high.
  • Add your phone to the fight:  Sign up for COVID-19 exposure notifications from CA Notify.
  • Answer the call or text if a contact tracer from the CA COVID Team or your local health department tries to connect.
  • Check with your local health department about local conditions. Local health jurisdictions can implement protocols that are stricter than state guidance. 

Tracking COVID-19 in California

Health Care Workers

  • As of December 9, local health departments have reported 131,821 confirmed positive cases in health care workers and 531 deaths statewide.

Testing Turnaround Time

  • The testing turnaround time dashboard reports how long California patients are waiting for COVID-19 test results. During the week of November 28 to December 4, the average time patients waited for test results was 1.0 day. During this same time period, 75% of patients received test results in one day and 97% received them within two days.

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)

  • As of December 6, there have been 731 cases of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) reported statewide. MIS-C is a rare inflammatory condition associated with COVID-19 that can damage multiple organ systems. MIS-C can require hospitalization and be life threatening.

Santa Ana residents must stop wasting water!

Posted on by Posted in California, Santa Ana, Water 6 Comments

It is hard to believe how many Santa Ana residents are still hosing off their driveways and sidewalks and wasting water by over-watering their lawns. They are going to have to check themselves as the state’s water emergency has reached a new crisis level.

With record dry conditions straining Southern California’s water supplies, the Metropolitan Water District’s (MWD) Board of Directors declared a Drought Emergency on Nov. 9, calling for increased efforts to maximize conservation, especially in communities facing the greatest challenges.

The California Department of Water Resources has indicated its initial SWP allocation next month will be zero. And if drought conditions continue, the state could do something it has never done before – provide only enough water as deemed necessary to protect the health and safety of Californians. Under this never-before-used provision of the SWP contract, the state has indicated it would constrain water deliveries to a level that may prevent any outdoor watering.

In August, Metropolitan’s board declared a Water Supply Alert for the region, calling for consumers and businesses to voluntarily reduce their water use and help preserve the region’s storage reserves. Some of Metropolitan’s member agencies have already gone a step further by implementing new mandatory conservation measures or maintaining past ones. 

Under the expanded conservation programs approved today, Metropolitan will provide an additional $5.5 million to install high-efficiency toilets in older apartment buildings; increase its turf replacement program rebate from $2 to $3 a square foot for public agencies that replace grass with more water-efficient landscaping; and provide an additional $1.5 million for its program to directly install water-efficient devices for income-qualified customers. In addition, the board approved a new $2.6 million grant program to help public agencies detect and repair leaks in their distribution systems.

The OCDA receives $1.9M in grants to combat DUIs

Posted on by Posted in Alcohol, California, Crime, Drugs, OCDA, Todd Spitzer 1 Comment

SANTA ANA, Calif. – The Orange County District Attorney’s Office (OCDA) is proud to announce that it has been chosen by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) to continue serving as the statewide traffic safety training agency in an ongoing effort to combat drugged and drunk driving across California.

OTS has awarded the OCDA two grants totaling $1.9 million in order to fund the office’s Alcohol and Drug Impaired Driver Vertical Prosecution Program, which dedicates eight prosecutors and one investigator to prosecuting drugged and drunk driving cases, as well as continue the California Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor (TSRP) Training Network, which trains California law enforcement and prosecutors on how to effectively prosecute driving under the influence cases.

Unfortunately, the number of drug-impaired driving cases investigated and prosecuted across California has increased in the wake of the state’s 2016 decriminalization of marijuana.

“Preventing drunk and drugged driving has been a top priority for me throughout my entire career and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office continues to lead the way in training our law enforcement partners to effectively investigate and prosecute impaired drivers,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “The injuries and deaths caused by drunk and drugged drivers are completely preventable and we as a society must continue to do everything we can to prevent impaired drivers from ever getting behind the wheel in order to save lives. As a member of the State Assembly, I authored the Steve Ambriz Act to require every Californian who applies for a driver’s license to sign a form that states he or she has been advised that being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or both, impairs the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, and if they do so anyway and someone is killed, they can be charged with murder. These grant dollars from the California Office of Traffic will help to make our roadways safer and save innocent lives.”

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office has taken the statewide lead in providing police officers and prosecutors with cutting edge training to hold drugged and drunk drivers accountable and make California streets safer.

OCDA was awarded $1,111,504 for the Alcohol and Drug Impaired Driver Vertical Prosecution Program and $833,392 for the California Traffic Safety Resource Prosecutor Training Network.

In 2011, OCDA developed a multi-agency collaborative driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) prosecution, investigation and toxicology model which has served as the innovative foundation to develop a statewide program.

In October 2016, OCDA expanded its traffic safety training role to the Southern California region, serving as the lead agency in prosecution and law enforcement training. This includes the delivery of live trainings, roundtables, training videos, and legal updates. In 2017, OCDA began to develop a statewide training program through its administration of the TSRP Training Network. As part of this process, OCDA has begun to align law enforcement and prosecution agencies throughout the state to create a massive statewide training, resource and education network. This responsibility offers agencies throughout the state the opportunity to share expertise in the area of traffic safety as the OCDA works in partnership to proactively investigate and prosecute traffic related crimes, increasing public safety in all jurisdictions throughout California.

During the 2020 grant year, despite the challenges confronted due to the travel and gathering limitations caused by the Coronavirus pandemic, our TSRP team conducted more than 60 trainings to prosecutors, peace officers, toxicologists, community members, and policymakers about the dangers, investigation, and prosecution of driving under the influence of drugs.

As part of these OTS grants, OCDA maintains eight vertical DUID prosecutors assigned throughout Orange County. These deputy district attorneys review, file and prosecute nearly all drug-impaired driving cases filed in Orange County. Additionally, OTS has provided funds for a full-time drug recognition expert who will be available to the Orange County DUID vertical prosecutors for training, consultation, and courtroom testimony.

Collectively in the 2021 grant year, OCDA prosecutors filed charges on more than 850 DUID and combination cases submitted by police agencies and secured more than 300 convictions in DUID and combination cases.

This year, the eight prosecutors assigned to the program are Deputy District Attorneys Mike Paone and Keegan Lund of Central Justice Center, George Smith and Ryan Ramos of West Justice Center, Michael Briante and Dustin Rice of Harbor Justice Center, and Caitlin Harrington and Shabnum Azizi of North Justice Center.

The Alcohol and Drug Impaired Driver Vertical Prosecution Program grant is overseen by Assistant District Attorneys Suzie Price and Brock Zimmon. The TSRP Training Network grant is under the supervision of Senior Assistant District Attorney Keith Bogardus and Assistant District Attorney Brock Zimmon. The TSRP team consists of Deputy District Attorneys Hoon Chang and Gaganjot Batth and OCDA Investigator Eric Franke.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The City of Santa Ana has been granted $100K for bicycle and pedestrian safety

Posted on by Posted in Bicycles, California, Public Safety, Santa Ana, Traffic 2 Comments

Santa Ana, Calif. – The City of Santa Ana Public Works Agency is the recipient of a $100,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) that will prioritize the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians.

“The City of Santa Ana has been working hard to create more alternative transportation options for our residents and visitors, from bike boulevards to the OC Streetcar,” said Santa Ana Mayor Vicente Sarmiento. “This grant will help our bicycle riders and pedestrians safely enjoy these new resources.”

“Our goal is that education will change poor behaviors and make our roads safer,” OTS Director Barbara Rooney said. “This funding will help ensure the safety of those out biking or walking.”

Grant funds will pay for a comprehensive safety program that will teach valuable skills for all types of road users:

  • Bicycle skills and training courses that educate youth on safe riding behaviors.
  • Education workshops geared toward youth and older adults.
  • Education on the importance of safety equipment that improves visibility such as reflective armbands, bicycle headlights and taillights.
  • Community walks and bicycle safety courses.
  • Bicycle helmet inspections.
  • Helmet fitting inspections and distribution of helmets to those in need.

The grant program will run through September 2022.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

CA Gov. Newsom wants you to stop wasting so much water!

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SACRAMENTO – Following the second driest year on record and with near record low storage in California’s largest reservoirs, Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation extending the drought emergency statewide and further urging Californians to step up their water conservation efforts as the western U.S. faces a potential third dry year.

Bolstering conservation efforts, the proclamation enables the State Water Resources Control Board to ban wasteful water practices, including the use of potable water for washing sidewalks and driveways. The Governor issued an executive order in July calling on Californians to voluntarily reduce water use by 15 percent compared to 2020 to protect water reserves and complement local conservation mandates. The Governor’s action today comes as the Board reports that in August, California reduced urban water use by 5 percent compared to 2020.

“As the western U.S. faces a potential third year of drought, it’s critical that Californians across the state redouble our efforts to save water in every way possible,” said Governor Newsom. “With historic investments and urgent action, the state is moving to protect our communities, businesses and ecosystems from the immediate impacts of the drought emergency while building long-term water resilience to help the state meet the challenge of climate change impacts making droughts more common and more severe.”

A copy of today’s proclamation can be found here.

The proclamation adds the eight counties not previously included in the drought state of emergency: Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco and Ventura. In addition, the proclamation requires local water suppliers to implement water shortage contingency plans that are responsive to local conditions and prepare for the possibility of a third dry year.

Expanding the Save Our Water initiative, a critical resource during the last drought, California has launched robust water conservation public education campaigns in partnership with stakeholders, including public water agencies. Statewide per capita residential water use declined 21 percent between 2013 and 2016 and as of 2020, the urban sector is using approximately 16 percent less on average statewide than in 2013. The Administration will continue to monitor the evolving drought conditions and evaluate all tools available to respond in real-time.

California is experiencing its worst drought since the late 1800s, as measured by both lack of precipitation and high temperatures. August 2021 was the driest and hottest August on record since reporting began and the water year that ended last month was the second driest on record. Today’s proclamation authorizes the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to provide assistance and funding under the California Disaster Assistance Act to support the emergency response and delivery of drinking water and water for public health and safety.

The Governor’s California Comeback Plan invests $5.2 billion over three years to support immediate drought response and long-term water resilience, including $815 million for emergency drought relief projects to secure and expand water supplies, drought contingency planning and multi-benefit land repurposing projects; support for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, with a focus on small and disadvantaged communities; Sustainable Groundwater Management Act implementation to improve water supply security and quality; and projects to support wildlife and habitat restoration efforts, among other nature-based solutions.

More information on the state’s response to the drought and informational resources available to the public are available at https://drought.ca.gov/.

The SAPD was awarded a $536K grant to improve traffic safety

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Santa Ana, Calif. – The safety of everyone traveling is the focus of a grant awarded to the Santa Ana Police Department. The $536,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) will assist in the Santa Ana Police Department’s efforts to reduce deaths and injuries on Santa Ana roads.

“The City of Santa Ana is at the forefront in addressing traffic safety,” Santa Ana Police Chief David Valentin said. “This funding allows us to educate and enhance the safety of all residents.”

The one-year grant is for the 2021 federal fiscal year, which runs from Oct. 1, 2021 to Sept. 30, 2022.

The grant will fund a variety of traffic safety programs, including:

• Patrols with emphasis on alcohol and drug-impaired driving prevention.
• DUI / Driver License checkpoints with emphasis on alcohol and drug-impaired driving prevention.
• Patrols with emphasis on awareness and education of California’s hands-free cell phone law.
• Patrols with emphasis on education of traffic rights for bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Patrols with emphasis on awareness and education of primary causes of crashes: excess speed, failure to yield, failure to stop at stop signs/signals, improper turning/lane changes.
• Community education presentations on traffic safety issues such as distracted driving, DUI, speed, bicycle and pedestrian safety.
• Collaborative efforts with neighboring agencies on traffic safety priorities.
• Officer training and/or recertification: Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE) and Drug Recognition Expert (DRE).

“Through education and behavior changes, we hope to create an environment that is safe and equitable for all road users in our community,” Chief David Valentin said. “Vehicular and pedestrian safety is one of our community’s highest priorities”.

Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Gov. Newsom is trying to address what California did to Native Americans

Posted on by Posted in California, Gavin Newsom, Native Americans Leave a comment

Today on Indigenous People’s Day, Decolonizing Wealth Project announced a new partnership with Governor Gavin Newsom’s (D-Calif.) Office and the California Truth and Healing Council (“Council”), aiming to address historic wrongs and promote access and inclusion for California Native American communities.

Working alongside the Governor’s office and the Council, Decolonizing Wealth Project will leverage its experience and relationships within the philanthropic community to serve as ambassadors for the work of the Council across the philanthropic sector. The organization will develop and execute a new multi-million grantmaking program to support the engagement of California Native American families in the healing opportunities presented in this process and advance the broader objectives of the Council. Through narrative change and digital storytelling, Decolonizing Wealth Project will also highlight California’s journey towards truth, healing and reconciliation.

“Decolonizing Wealth Project is excited to amplify the work of the Council and California’s Native American tribal leaders,” said Edgar Villanueva, principal of Decolonizing Wealth Project and a member of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. “By helping to raise awareness among Californians and the philanthropic community to advocate for truth and reconciliation, it is our hope that the reparative efforts being put forth by the Council will one day be replicated on a national level. Especially on Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we as a nation can only get to a state of reconciliation when we are able to reflect on and acknowledge America’s history of oppression and erasure of Indigenous communities.”

The California Truth and Healing Council, established in 2019 through Executive Order N-15-19, works to clarify the historical record and promote narratives regarding the troubled relationship between the State of California and California Native Americans, with the goals of advancing truth and healing. The Council, led and convened by the Governor’s Tribal Advisor Christina Snider, includes representatives from California Native American tribes, relevant state and local agencies and other relevant non-governmental stakeholders.

“As we honor the perseverance, rich diversity and contributions of all Indigenous peoples today, California is advancing our commitment to collaborating with tribal communities throughout the state to make real the promise of a California for all,” said Governor Newsom. “This new partnership will expand the Administration’s efforts to engage Native American families in the important dialogue created by the Truth & Healing Council, helping to build bridges and begin healing deep wounds.”

“The Truth & Healing Council is pleased to partner with Decolonizing Wealth Project on this difficult journey,” said Council Member Frankie Myers, who serves as Vice Chairman for the Yurok Tribe. “California Native peoples have not forgotten the true history of the State of California, and we hope that our reexamination of the historical record is the first of many steps towards restoring the balance between California indigenous people and the State. Through philanthropy, and the healing tools it will empower us to provide, we are excited to advocate for real change through reparative justice.”

To learn more about the Council and their ongoing work, please visit https://tribalaffairs.ca.gov/cthc/.

ABOUT DECOLONIZING WEALTH PROJECT

Led by Edgar Villanueva (Lumbee), Decolonizing Wealth Project (DWP) works globally to disrupt the existing systems of moving and controlling capital using education and healing programs, radical reparative giving, and storytelling. Through its fund, Liberated Capital, DWP moves untethered resources to Indigenous, Black and other people-of-color-led initiatives working for economic and racial justice. www.decolonizingwealth.com

All fishing off the O.C. coast closed due to the oil spill

Posted on by Posted in Beaches, California, Public Safety, Santa Ana Leave a comment

Take of all fish and shellfish is immediately prohibited from Huntington Beach to Dana Point, including the shorelines and offshore areas and all bays due to an oil spill in Southern California.

The Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has determined that a threat to public health is likely by fishing in the affected area or consuming fish or shellfish that may have been affected by the spill. OEHHA recommended this fishery closure to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The CDFW’s Office of Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR) Administrator, Thomas Cullen, signed the closure on behalf of CDFW Director Charlton H. Bonham.

The closure is in effect until lifted. This closure document includes a detailed map of the initially closed areas. The extent of the closure will change as conditions and factors in the area change.

Santa Ana pharmacy owner gets 3 years in prison for $1.8 million insurance scheme

Posted on by Posted in California, California Department of Justice, Crime, Drugs, Insurance, Santa Ana Leave a comment

OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the sentencing of Quality Care Pharmacy owner Divina Catalasan for defrauding the Medi-Cal and Medicare programs. An audit by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) found that the amount of drugs the owner of the Santa Ana-based pharmacy claimed to have purchased and billed the programs for was not supported by her actual inventory, and that her fraudulent over-billing totaled more than $1.8 million. Catalasan pleaded guilty on May 14, 2021, to three felony counts of fraudulent healthcare claims and grand theft, with a sentencing enhancement for aggravated white-collar crime. She was sentenced today in Orange County Superior Court to three years in state prison.

“Medi-Cal and Medicare bring healthcare to seniors and people in need, including underserved children and people with disabilities. People who defraud these publicly-funded programs cheat all of us,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Through our Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse, the California Department of Justice works to protect Californians from healthcare fraud. People who try to pull a fast one on these programs will be held accountable.”

In 2015, an audit of Quality Care Pharmacy by the California Department of Health Care Services revealed that from 2011 through 2015, Catalasan billed Medi-Cal more than $540,000 over what her purchase inventory showed. The department then referred the case to DOJ’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse (DMFEA), which expanded the audit and the time frame under review. DMFEA also expanded its audit beyond Medi-Cal to Medicare and Orange County’s Medi-Cal managed care plan, CalOptima. The expanded audit found that Catalasan fraudulently overbilled Medi-Cal and CalOptima for $1,168,585.06, and Medicare for $687,940.52, for a total of $1,856,525.58. She was arrested on June 11, 2019.

Through the DMFEA, DOJ works to protect Californians by investigating and prosecuting those who perpetrate fraud on the Medi-Cal program. DMFEA also investigates and prosecutes those responsible for abuse, neglect, and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults. The division regularly works with whistleblowers and law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute crimes.

The DMFEA receives 75% of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $41,264,032 for federal fiscal year 2020-2021. The remaining 25%, totaling $13,754,675 for fiscal year 2020-2021, is funded by the State of California. The federal fiscal year is defined as through September 30, 2021.

A copy of the complaint is available here.

California implements nation-leading vaccine verification measure for large events

Posted on by Posted in California, Disease, Health and Medical, Public Safety Leave a comment

SACRAMENTO – Today, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) strengthened requirements already in effect for mega events in the Beyond the Blueprint Framework, announcing that proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours before an event starts, will be required for indoor gatherings where 1,000 or more participants or spectators are attending. Currently, verification of being vaccinated or a pre-entry negative test is necessary where there are 5,000 or more persons for an indoor event.

“The Delta variant has proven to be highly transmissible, making it easier to spread in large crowds where people are near each other for long periods of time,” said Dr. Tomás J. Aragón, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer. “By requiring individuals to be vaccinated, or test negative for COVID-19 at large events, we are decreasing the risk of infection, hospitalization and death.”

Beyond dropping the requirement from 5,000 to 1,000 individuals, self-attestation to verify a person’s vaccination status will no longer be accepted. The aforementioned changes will remain in place until November 1, 2021.

In recent weeks, California has led the nation in implementing measures to increase vaccinations and slow the spread In recent weeks, California has led the nation in implementing measures to increase vaccinations and slow the spread of COVID-19, including:

  • Vaccine verification for school staff. Requires all school staff to either show proof of full vaccination or be tested at least once per week.
  • Vaccine verification for state workers. Requires all state workers to either show proof of full vaccination or be tested at least once per week, and encourages local governments and other employers to adopt a similar protocol. Following California’s announcement, some of the largest California businesses and local governments followed suit, as did the federal government.
  • Vaccinations for health care workers. Requires workers in health care settings to be fully vaccinated or receive their second dose by September 30, 2021.
  • Universal masking in K-12 settings. Aligned with guidance from the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics, California was the first state to implement universal masking in school settings to keep students and staff safe while optimizing fully in-person instruction.
  • Medi-Cal vaccination incentives. $350 million in incentive payments to help close the vaccination gap between Medi-Cal beneficiaries and Californians as a whole, significantly stepping up outreach in underserved communities.
  • Statewide mask recommendation. In response to the spike in COVID-19 hospitalizations and new CDC guidance calling for masking, the state recommended mask use for indoor public settings regardless of vaccination status.

Since first implementing these measures on July 26, California has administered nearly 1 million new first doses. California has led the nation in implementing vaccination and safety measures. California leads the nation in vaccinations, with more than 46 million doses administered and 78 percent of the eligible population having received at least one dose. California remains committed to increasing vaccination rates and urges businesses and local communities to encourage vaccination.

Today’s announcement is supported by leaders in the events and arts sectors who are committed to making larger events safer for their attendees while encouraging more people to get vaccinated.

“We are pleased to see the Newsom Administration take proactive steps to support the arts and live events industries to keep audiences, performers and workers safe as we continue to battle the spread of COVID. The arts have always led with safety first and it is imperative that for every community’s economic, social, and emotional recovery, we must do everything we can to allow for secure gatherings. We implore Californians to get vaccinated and follow public health mandates so we can all enjoy the benefits of arts, culture and creativity and our sector can get back to work,” said Julie Baker, Executive Director of Californians for the Arts.

“Vaccination and health check requirements ensure everyone can continue enjoying live music while also encouraging even more people to go get vaccinated, which is why Live Nation has made this the standard at our venues and festivals across the country. We fully support California’s efforts and will stay in lockstep to keep bringing live music back to the Golden State,” said Michael Rapino, President and CEO of Live Nation Entertainment.

“Today’s announcement adds another layer of protection to make our State, our venues and our communities safer. Our fans, our team members and our families all want to feel as protected as possible from COVID-19 while enjoying our favorite concerts and sporting events. We are proud to partner with public health officials to continue to play a role in encouraging those who haven’t gotten vaccinated to follow the advice of the medical experts,” said Dan Beckerman, President and CEO of AEG.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Unvaccinated Californians age 12 and up can go to myturn.ca.gov or COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Unvaccinated Californians age 12 and up can go to myturn.ca.gov or call (833) 422-4255 to schedule an appointment or go to myturn.ca.gov/clinic to find a walk-in clinic in their county.

Click here to get your official California Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record.

Statewide COVID-19 Data as of Today 

  • California has 4,057,724 confirmed cases to date. Numbers may not represent true day-over-day change as reporting of test results can be delayed.
  • There were 14,317 newly reported confirmed cases Tuesday.
  • Cases are increasing statewide, largely among unvaccinated populations.
  • For the week of August 9 – August 15, the average case rate among unvaccinated Californians is 51 per 100,000 per day and the average case rate among vaccinated Californians is significantly lower at 7.6 per 100,000 per day.
  • The vast majority of new cases are among the unvaccinated with 500% higher case rates among the unvaccinated than for those who are vaccinated.
  • The 7-day positivity rate is 6.1%.