Friends,
These are trying times and uncharted waters for all Oregonians. The fear of an unseen and formidable enemy can quickly grip everyone of us. The COVID-19/Coronavirus pandemic leaves no one immune to its impact on our health and our financial stability. I wanted to give you a brief update what has taken place at the state level and what you can expect in the near future. Finally, I want to make sure you know about some resources available in order to find the assistance you may need.
Governor's Response
Since the beginning of March, Governor Brown has issued eight Executive Orders concerning the COVID-19 virus outbreak in Oregon. These orders have changed the way we go about our daily lives, first limiting access to large group events, then to groups of no more than 25. Executive Order 20-12 was issued on Monday and is the most restrictive. It ordered several types of businesses to close their doors: from hair dressers to gyms; from senior centers to museums; from jewelry shops to bowling allies, and more — ending jobs for thousands of Oregonians and bringing uncertainty to many businesses as to whether they will be able to weather this unforeseen storm or go out of business.
The goal of Governor Brown's executive orders is to slow the spread of COVID-19/Coronavirus by limiting physical person-person contact and ensure our health care system is not overwhelmed by people seeking treatment all at once.
Legislative Action
Last week the Joint Committee on Coronavirus Response was formed to ensure proper funding is available for our health care system, but also to help working families and small businesses make it through these unprecedented economic times. The Joint Committee has been very productive in preparing legislation for a special session in order to address needs from Oregonians all across the state. It is in the public interest that we maintain our multi-branch approach to ensure all voices are heard and achieve the best possible result.
While the our government may be able bridge some economic gaps in the short-term, we must remember that the ultimate solution is to end the threat of this virus and to get back to our normal lives, jobs, businesses, and social routines as soon as possible. Economic pain is real pain, and the result of an economic downturn can lead to more property crime, substance abuse, violence and suicides.
Helpful Resources
Working Families / Individuals
Businesses
Please note that both Federal & State Tax filing deadlines for personal and business taxes have been extended from April 15th to July 15th.
Together We Can Do This
Finally, remember we can do this. While health concerns are real and financial obligations may seem, at the moment, beyond our control, Oregonians are resilient and with our can-do pioneering spirit we will find a way forward to a better future.
Best regards & stay well,
 E. WERNER RESCHKE
State Representative
Southern Klamath & Lake Counties
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1456
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-384, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.EWernerReschke@OregonLegislature.gov
Website: www.oregonlegislature.gov/reschke
Facebook: Facebook.com/wernerfororegon
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