As you may be aware, my wife Sharon passed away recently after a long battle with a respiratory illness. She will be dearly missed by those whose lives she touched and forever remembered for her gentle nature, strong commitment to her faith and tireless public service. Thank you for your support during this challenging time. My family and I find comfort in the many stories being shared about Sharon that show just how deeply she enriched our lives.

GEORGE RUNNER

Let’s Pump the Brakes on Cap-and-Trade

SB 32 is on its way to the governor’s desk. If signed, California’s cap-and-trade program, which is set to expire in 2020, could be extended until 2030.

This extension would come in spite of widespread concern that the program hasn’t been very effective.

In recent years, the California Air Resources Board has implemented a stream of costly regulations, including the hidden gas tax, that has increased the price of everything from food to fuel.

I want cleaner air for our children, but I also want California to be an affordable place to live and work.

Read my full op-ed in the Ventura County Star on cap-and-trade.

Emergency Tax Relief

California’s drought has contributed to the recent spate of wildfires throughout the state. Emergency tax relief is available if you or your business have been affected. Taxes are the last thing people need to worry about during a tragedy.

That’s why I’m co-sponsoring AB 1559, which gives the Board of Equalization authority to extend emergency tax relief up to three months in the event of a disaster.

AB 1559 is on the governor’s desk and, if signed, would take effect immediately.

Please know the BOE is doing everything possible to work with those who have been affected by these devastating fires.

Back to School Scams

For many of us, it’s back-to-school season.

Earlier this month, the Internal Revenue Service issued a notice to taxpayers warning of telephone scammers demanding payment for non-existent taxes such as the “Federal Student Tax.”

Remember: The IRS, BOE or FTB will never call to demand immediate payment using a specific payment method such as a prepaid debit card, gift card or wire transfer.

If you believe you have been the victim of a scam, you can report it to the IRS, BOE, or FTB in addition to local law enforcement.

Please stay alert!

Tax Tip

Q: I run a small business that hires veterans and individuals who face significant barriers to employment. Does my business qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)?

A: Your business may qualify for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit depending on the target group of the individuals hired, wages paid to individuals during the first year of employment, and the number of hours worked by those individuals.

To find out more about the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, visit edd.ca.gov or call the California WOTC Processing Center toll-free at 1-866-593-0173.

GR in the News

Runner: Legislature Votes to Extend Emergency Tax Relief (SCV News, 8/25/16)

Tax Board Offers Help to Sand Fire Victims (San Fernando Valley Business Journal, 8/02/16)

Gas prices falling in California (Santa Clarita Valley Signal, 8/02/16)

Emergency tax relief, local assistance available for business owners affected by wildfires (Central Valley Business Times, 8/01/16)