As the COVID-19 virus continues to dominate headlines, it remains at the center of many of our thoughts and conversations. These are certainly trying times for all of us. As I write this report, there have only been nine confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the three counties that make up the 32nd Senatorial District. I am proud of the unified way our community has responded to this pandemic, and I continue to remain hopeful for a quick resolution to this ongoing challenge.
CARES Act
On March 27, the U.S. Congress passed the $2 trillion CARES Act relief package, or Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES). The broad-based relief package provides aid to individuals, businesses and local governments affected by the impact of COVID-19. Below are some of the key points from the federal relief bill:
- Taxpayers will receive direct payments according to their filing status. Individuals who earn less than $75,000 will receive $1,200, married couples earning less than $150,000 will receive $2,400 and $500 will be paid for each dependent;
- Unemployment insurance extensions will be put into place;
- Employers’ payroll tax due dates will be delayed;
- Coronavirus testing and vaccinations will be free;
- U.S. health systems will receive funds to support hospitals, compensate health care workers and purchase needed equipment;
- States and local governments will receive disaster relief funds; and
- Agriculture based businesses will have access to increased bailout programs.
The Show-Me State Takes Action
One of the governor’s most recent press briefings focused on the importance of protecting Missouri’s food and agriculture industry in order to prevent a disruption in the delivery of crucial supplies. Department heads are collaborating to create a “consistent directive” for the businesses and individuals that comprise the food supply chain. Last week’s Executive Order 20-04 extends the hours that commercial drivers may operate, and it increases the weight limits on the loads carried by semi-trucks.
The state has also taken steps to help businesses and workers impacted by the pandemic. Through the Missouri Department of Labor’s website, businesses and employees affected by COVID-19 can access information regarding unemployment insurance and other programs offered by the state.
On the medical front, the governor has outlined reciprocity waivers for health care workers to ramp up “boots on the ground” to deal with the virus. While Missouri is in this “State of Emergency”, physicians and surgeons who maintain a valid license in other states may provide care in our state.
The Department of Social Services’ Family Support Division is responding to the crisis by expanding its call center hours and waiving the required phone interviews for SNAP, or food stamps.
While experts predict the crisis is still long from over, I believe the important steps that our federal and state government are taking will help all of us cope with the virus and its ancillary effects. Our community is no stranger to dealing with disasters, and I am confident that our grit and commitment to each other will see us through this temporary setback.
