Three things that happened at the last Chamber PPC meeting that you need to know

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce’s Public Policy Committee met this Thursday to discuss important issues that effect our business community. Below are some key items addressed during this month’s meeting.

Three things that happened at the last OCCPPC First Thursday meeting at the Chamber that you need to know:

1. I-5 widening plan. Caltrans’ Allan Kosup, SR 17, I-5 Corridor Director joined by California DOT’s, Arturo Jacobo, PE, Project Manager, presented possible plans for the widening of I-5 from La Jolla Village Drive to Highway 78 with two additional HOV lanes in each direction.  The plans include improvement of the lagoons and sound reduction in certain areas.

2. Health Coverage for Unemployed Workers.  Workers who are out of work and need health coverage may find relief with COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) provides eligible individuals with the ability to continue group health insurance benefits during periods of unemployment.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 provides a 65 percent federal subsidy for the costs of paying medical premiums for a period of nine months. The subsidy program is available though December 2009.

3. Part-time unemployment. Has your company been forced to cut working hours?  If so partial unemployment benefits might be the ticket to soften the blow for your workers.  For details go to: www.California.EDD.CA.Gov.

The Chamber’s Public Policy Committee is open to all Chamber Members and Legislative Representatives; if you are interested in attending one our meetings, please contact the Chamber Office at 760-722-1534 for time and date.

*Information provided by: Jerry Salyer, Salyer Insurance and Benefits Management, PPC Chair