The Los Angeles Post

Regional Consumer Protection Agency on the Impact of the American Rescue Plan

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Statement from Rafael Carbajal, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs, on President Biden signing into law the American Rescue Plan of 2021

LOS ANGELES – “The American Rescue Plan, just signed into law by President Biden, will deliver immediate relief to many of LA County’s residents and businesses following this extraordinarily difficult year. Many facets of this monumental legislation align with the mission of the Department of Consumer and Business Affairs. We are dedicated to ensuring that LA County’s consumers and business owners get connected to the benefits included in the bill and maximize the relief available to them.

Stimulus Checks

“DCBA encourages residents who don’t have bank accounts to take advantage of BankOn and avoid paying fees and risk of theft.  Having a bank account with direct deposit is the quickest and safest way to get federal stimulus payments in your pocket. We can also help residents become more financially empowered by accessing expanded Earned Income Tax Credits, child tax credits and child-care credits.

Small Business Assistance

“DCBA looks forward to working with the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and the Small Business Administration to ensure L.A. County entrepreneurs, especially restaurant owners, obtain urgent relief that is needed to meet this moment.

“The  L.A. County Disaster Help Center, which has already served more than 30,000 residents since its inception last year, will continue to provide small business assistance and promote grant opportunities to business owners,  and help workers access unemployment and sick-leave benefits.

Benefits for Tenants and Property Owners

“DCBA’s Housing and Foreclosure Prevention staff are ready to  help renters and property owners understand and access new tools that will help them stay in their homes.

“With more than one third of its 10 million residents having been born outside the United States, L.A. County is home to the largest immigrant population in any region in the United States. Ensuring L.A. County’s most vulnerable residents are aware of assistance programs is critical to our regions recovery. DCBA’s Office of Immigrant Affairs is here to assist our most diverse communities in understanding what benefits their family is entitled to.

“DCBA is here to help make the American Rescue Plan work for you. Call us at (800) 593-8222 or visit our website at http://dcba.lacounty.gov to learn more about our suite of programs. We are looking forward to serving you.”