January 2025 Newsletter from the Office of Senator Bob Archuleta
Dear Neighbor,
As we begin 2025, I am honored to continue representing California’s 30th State Senate District. This year brings new opportunities and challenges, and I look forward to working on legislation that strengthens our communities, supports families, and improves the quality of life for all Californians.
I want to take a moment to reflect on the joy and unity of the recent end-of-the-year activities. It was heartwarming to participate in tree lighting ceremonies, toy giveaways, and events celebrating the holiday spirit. Additionally, welcoming new businesses to our district has been a privilege, as these enterprises contribute to the vitality and growth of our community.
The legislative session in Sacramento is underway, and my team and I are focused on addressing critical issues such as public safety, education, healthcare, housing, and veterans' services. Your input and engagement remain invaluable as we work together to build a brighter future.
This newsletter also includes vital information for those affected by the recent wildfires.
As always, I stand ready to serve you, and encourage you to contact my offices for assistance or with questions at (562) 406-1001 or by visiting: https://sd30.senate.ca.gov/
Here’s to a successful and productive 2025!
God bless,
Chair, Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee
California Association of Code Enforcement Officers Present Senator Archuleta with President’s Award
Senator Archuleta was honored to receive the President’s Award from the California Association of Code Enforcement Officers (CACEO), which is the group’s highest honor. The CACEO actively promotes its members as a viable, necessary and beneficial component of public safety, capable of solving the most difficult problems, improving the quality of life and increasing property values in communities across California.
The CACEO commended Senator Archuleta for his bill, SB 1465, which was signed into law by the Governor. SB 1465 allows any structure used for human habitation to be declared a substandard building regardless of zoning or approved use as well as extends tenant protections to all buildings used for housing. The need for this bill was made clear by the deadly Ghostship Fire in Oakland, where a fire started in a former warehouse that had been unlawfully converted into an artist collective.
The “30th District Spotlight” highlights local individuals and their achievements to build pride and unity in the District, as well as provide awareness of the contributions of those living and working in our communities.
The January 2025 Newsletter shines a light on Yoshio “Yosh” Nakamura, who is a longtime Whittier resident.
The highly-decorated World War II veteran and beloved art teacher was recently honored when Whittier High School dedicated its art building in his name. Nakamura, 98, was celebrated for his transformative career, which spanned 10 years at Whittier High and nearly 30 years at Río Hondo College as an art teacher, dean, and vice president.
Nakamura, a member of the legendary 442nd Regimental Combat Team, reflected on his teaching journey, crediting the support of colleagues and families for his success. He expressed gratitude for his late wife, Grace Nakamura, a community activist, and their three children. His empathetic teaching style and encouragement inspired countless students. His lessons, which emphasized creativity and innovation, left a lasting impression on his students, some of whom pursued teaching careers themselves.
Photo Courtesy of Whittier Union High School District
Los Angeles County residents with wildfire-related needs may be eligible for financial assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Individuals with insurance must file a claim with their insurance company before applying for FEMA disaster assistance.
Residents can apply for FEMA assistance by:
- Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, which is the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to apply.
- Use the FEMA App
- Call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362: 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. (PST). Help is available in most languages.
- Going in person to a Local Assistance Center (LAC)
- View a video on how to apply for assistance.
- Reach out to your Congressional representative.
Small Business Assistance:
- Federal government assistance for small business owners is available through the Small Business Administration.
- According to the Small Business Administration, disaster loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles, may also be available.
- Local Assistance & Disaster Resource Centers - Will open to the public on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 8:00PM. Starting Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the Disaster Resource Centers will be available to the public from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- UCLA Research Park West - 10850 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064
- Pasadena City College Community Education Center - 3035 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91107
Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO): Los Angeles County DEO has launched an Emergency Resources Webpage for workers and businesses impacted by the wildfires.
- Businesses - Support and resources for businesses with structural loss or damage, closure, and revenue loss.
- Workers - Support and resources for workers facing imminent layoffs, loss of wages, or unemployment.
METRO: Fares have been suspended systemwide while wildfire conditions exist.
EDD: Apply for benefits from the State of California at EDD if you lost your job due to the fires.
California Department of Insurance:
Constituents impacted by the fires can make appointments to attend free, upcoming insurance workshops in Santa Monica and Pasadena. To make an appointment, call (800) 927-4357.
Santa Monica College, Performing Arts Center East Wing
1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401
• Saturday, January 18th 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday, January 19th 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Pasadena City College
1570 East Colorado Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91106
• Saturday, January 25th 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Sunday, January 26th 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Click here for wildfire resources related to insurance.
Thank you to all our first responders for their service fighting fires, conducting safe evacuations, securing property and assisting all our neighbors and communities.
My staff is available and committed to helping you resolve any issues you have with any state agencies. We will contact a state agency on your behalf to see if we can get your questions answered or matter resolved. You can give us a call at (562) 406-1001. You can also follow my Facebook and Instagram accounts for a look at the work my staff and I are doing in the Capitol and the District, as well as information happening in Senate District 30.
Sincerely,
Senator Bob Archuleta, Thirtieth Senate District
Chair, Senate Military and Veterans Affairs Committee
Senator Bob Archuleta currently represents the 30th Senate District, which includes portions of Los Angeles County and Orange County. He is the Chair of the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, and a member of the Business, Professions and Economic Development Committee, Governmental Organization Committee, Transportation Committee, as well as the Joint Legislative Committee on Emergency Management.
Website of Senator Bob Archuleta: https://sd30.senate.ca.gov/