Official San Diego City Notices: Housing Deadlines, Labor Mandates, and Public Health Advisories

Public Housing and Section 8 Waitlist Closure

The San Diego Housing Commission (SDHC) has issued a critical notice regarding its rental assistance programs. Effective tonight, Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m., the SDHC will officially close its waiting lists for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher and Public Housing programs. This closure also includes the waiting list for Project-Based Vouchers. No new applications will be accepted after this deadline. Residents who have already submitted applications are advised that their status remains active and no further action is required at this time. The commission noted that current demand for assistance significantly exceeds available federal funding.

Mandatory Workplace Rights Notice

Beginning today, all employers in the San Diego region and throughout California must comply with the California Workplace Know Your Rights Act. On or before February 1, 2026, employers are required to provide all employees with an updated workplace rights notice. The California Labor Commissioner has provided standardized templates in multiple languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and Tagalog, to assist in meeting this annual requirement. This mandate is part of a statewide effort to ensure transparency regarding wage standards and worker protections. Failure to distribute these notices may result in administrative penalties.

Public Health and Seasonal Advisories

San Diego County health officials are maintaining several active advisories as the winter season continues. Residents are reminded of the following health priorities:

• Influenza Activity: The California Department of Public Health continues to monitor a surge in H3N2 subclade K influenza cases and hospital admissions statewide. Health officials recommend immediate vaccination and timely testing for symptomatic individuals.
• Cross-Border Health: An active health advisory remains in place regarding a New World Screwworm outbreak in Northern Mexico. Travelers and those handling livestock are encouraged to follow all local inspection and reporting protocols.
• Childhood Immunizations: San Diego County public health officials reiterate that local providers will continue to follow the American Academy of Pediatrics vaccine schedule, despite recent changes to federal guidance.

Educational Strike and School Closures

The San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD) has issued a public service announcement regarding a planned labor action later this month. The San Diego Education Association (SDEA) has authorized a one-day strike scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026, centered on special education staffing concerns. Due to the anticipated staffing shortage, all 172 district campuses will be closed on that day. Families are urged to begin making alternative childcare arrangements now. A make-up instructional day has been tentatively scheduled for March 9, 2026, to ensure students meet state learning requirements.

San Diego Museum Month Kickoff

Public service reminders: San Diego Museum Month officially begins today, February 1. Residents can pick up free passes at any of the 80+ San Diego City or County public libraries to receive 50% off admission at over 70 participating museums, gardens, and historic sites throughout the county. This program runs through February 28, 2026.