I am honored to represent our community in the California State Assembly. This news update highlights recent legislative developments and some of the work I am doing in the State Capitol and our District.
Announcing State Funding for Our Community
As your Assemblymember, I am committed to ensuring our local communities benefit from statewide grant programs and other funding opportunities. A number of excellent local projects, that safeguard our natural resources, advance economic vitality, provide environmental education and prevent youth homelessness, have recently been awarded State funding. These new State investments will positively impact our quality of life from the Coast to Cuyama.
California EITC: Money in Your Pocket
The California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC) is available for more families this year. This cash-back credit is designed to put money in the pockets of low-income working families and individuals. Claiming this credit is easy. Eligible taxpayers just need to file a state tax return.
You could get up to $3,417 back in this year's tax return if you qualify for California's Earned Income Tax Credit. In its first year alone, CalEITC boosted the income of about 385,000 families, who shared almost $200 million from the cash-back credit. Starting with the 2021 tax year, people with Individual Tax ID Numbers now qualify.
Those who were self-employed in 2022 may also qualify. If you do not owe taxes, CalEITC will provide you with a tax refund when you file your return. If you owe taxes, CalEITC reduces the amount of taxes you might owe and may allow you a refund when you file your taxes.
Promoting free income tax preparation services at the Tacos and Taxes event I co-hosted with Senator Limón, in partnership with Supervisor Laura Capps, United Way of Santa Barbara County and Golden State Opportunity.
Celebrating Black History Month
Each February, we celebrate Black History Month. This is a time for us to reflect on the rich history of Black and African American people in the United States. Black history is American history. It is a history of resilience, creativity, leadership and success in the face of adversity.
Honoring this year's theme of the "Art of Resistance," we celebrate the Black artists who have used their talents to inspire a nation, speak truth to power and pioneer artistic expressions that contribute greatly to our society. By highlighting the "Art of Resistance", we acknowledge the African American artists who have historically served as creative change agents. From the spirituals sung by enslaved people fighting for their freedom to the words written by Maya Angelou and Octavia Butler, Black art has moved us forward. I hope you enjoy Black History Month!
Out in the Community
Marching with the community in celebration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Spending time with the Leadership Santa Maria Valley cohort.
Speaking at the 2024 Legislative Summit, hosted by the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce.
Celebrating the recognition of Gregory Wolf, a teacher at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School, as a 2024 California Teacher of the Year.
Speaking about sustainable water solutions at the CalDesal annual conference.
I hope that these legislative and community updates provide insight into our work together. As always, I value your feedback and encourage you to reach out with any questions, suggestions, or concerns. My Santa Barbara office can be reached at (805) 564-1649 and my Santa Maria office can be reached at (805) 346-1237. You can also email me at Assemblymember.Hart@assembly.ca.gov.
Sincerely,
Gregg Hart
Assemblymember, 37th District
