Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares (R–Santa Clarita) announced that her office has secured over $500,000 for constituents during her first year in office. The funds were recovered by assisting individuals, families, and local organizations in navigating state government processes and reclaiming money owed to them.
“One of the most rewarding parts of my job is helping constituents cut through red tape and making government work the way it’s supposed to,” said Senator Valladares. “Whether it’s delayed benefits, unclaimed funds or unfair fees and charges, my office is committed to ensuring people receive the resources they are entitled to.”
The recovered amounts included payments from the Employment Development Department (EDD), such as unemployment insurance, State Disability Insurance, and Paid Family Leave benefits. Additional recoveries came from the State Controller’s Unclaimed Property Division and the Franchise Tax Board, which involved state tax refunds as well as fees and penalties related to California-incorporated businesses.
A recent case involved Senator Valladares’ team assisting a local business in obtaining $50,000 that had been delayed due to bureaucratic issues. Kevin MacDonald, CEO of the Santa Clarita Senior Center, commented on this effort: “I’m so grateful to Senator Valladares and her staff for helping us recover over $50,000 in funds for the Senior Center that had been tied up in red tape. We encountered bureaucratic barriers while trying to secure the funds owed, but Senator Valladares’ staff didn’t give up until they were released. This money comes at a pivotal time when funding for services is very limited. It will go a long way toward improving the lives of the community we serve.”
Beyond financial recoveries, Senator Valladares’ district office regularly helps residents with issues involving agencies such as the Department of Motor Vehicles and Department of Health Care Services.
“My office exists to serve the people of our district, and this is exactly why district casework matters,” Senator Valladares concluded. “When government falls short, we step in to advocate, follow through, and deliver results. I encourage anyone struggling with a state agency to reach out, we’re here to help.”
Senator Valladares urges those facing difficulties with state agencies to contact her district office for support.