During these unprecedented times, I wanted to ensure you all know my office is still open. My office is working remotely, practicing social distancing, and are still available to help. Please email me at any time or message me on Facebook.
I have also suspended all in-person gatherings and events to comply with Governor Whitmer’s Executive Orders and the CDC’s recommendations. When we have more information and this pandemic has subsided, I will reschedule my office hours, business tours, and town halls.
As information about the virus is changing daily, it is important to seek information from reliable sources.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has created a new coronavirus hotline. Public health experts are available to answer questions about COVID-19 and direct residents to the right resources in their local communities and within state government.
The hotline will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-888-535-6136.
I support the two emergency budget action plans to address evolving challenges with the coronavirus. Steps are being taken right now to help mitigate our risk and provide help to people who need it.
The most-recent measure brings the total state funding approved to $150 million, including the $25 million previously approved by the Legislature. The plan will provide $50 million for immediate needs such as virus monitoring and testing, $50 million for critical health care providers to expand capacity for coronavirus response, and $50 million to keep in reserve for when necessary. The financial support also comes with important accountability and legislative oversight provisions to ensure money will be spent in the best interests of the public and taxpayers.
I also support legislation that will assist with any future General Fund appropriations that are deemed necessary by the Legislature to address coronavirus.
We must ensure our students are not left behind in the aftermath of the coronavirus ramifications. While I agree that school closures were necessary, I also recognize that it will be challenging for our schools.
I want to assure you that I am working with the governor’s office, the school community, and my colleagues in the Legislature on the school calendar issue. At this time, we need to understand the full scope of the issue before we can tackle it. In the coming days and weeks ahead, when we know more, I’m confident that this issue will be addressed.
I continue to actively consider policy proposals to help people who are suffering during this time. I am also always open to hearing new ideas from you. Every person in Michigan has a different perspective on the issues brought about by this virus and I want to hear them. We’re all in this together, and I am confident we will make our way out of this difficult situation if we remain united.
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Please continue to practice smart and healthy habits to curtail the spread of COVID-19. The CDC recommends frequent handwashing, regular cleaning of commonly used surfaces, and limited social interaction.
It is important to educate yourself about the virus frequently, and to ensure you read information from reliable sources. In the coming days and weeks, I encourage you to visit www.Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and www.CDC.gov/Cornavirus for the most timely and accurate information.
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Serving the people of the 43rd District, which encompasses Waterford Township, the city of Lake Angelus, the village of Clarkston, and Independence Township, is very important to me. I encourage residents to contact my office with any state or local issues by calling (517) 373-0615, emailing, messaging me on Facebook, or visiting my website.
As always, it is an honor to serve you. Please contact me if I can assist you in any way, or if you have a great idea to help move our state forward.
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