We started 2020 with great optimism and prosperity. The American economy was booming. Then the coronavirus hit and economic and social turmoil ensued. You know the rest of the story all too well.

Nevertheless, as we change the calendar to January 2021, there is once again much to be positive and hopeful about. Americans have always responded to disasters by digging deep within themselves to summon the strength to persevere. This time is no different. Several vaccines have, within 9 months, been approved to protect people from COVID-19. They are being administered now and will continue to be administered throughout the year.

Among our priorities for 2021 should be:

• Working together to create common-sense rules and regulations regarding how we address virus safety and the economy. 
• Opening businesses that governments have closed or restricted and getting people back to work.

I will continue to work hard to achieve these goals, sponsoring and supporting legislation that will make our district and our state safer and stronger.

I wish you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year.

Assemblywoman BettyLou DeCroce