Friday, April 17, 2020
Economic Assistance Begins to Reach Missourians
Over the course of the past few weeks, Americans have learned more information about the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the economic assistance included in the federal legislation. This week, recipients started receiving the first economic stimulus payments distributed through the CARES Act. In addition, this week also brought about a few significant updates concerning stay-at-home orders and the 2020 legislative session.
Governor Announces Recovery Plan for Missouri
This week the governor announced he is extending the state stay-at-home order through May 3. The state order was scheduled to expire on April 24. The governor also announced the “Show Me Strong Recovery” plan to begin the process of reopening the state and getting Missourians safely back to work. This plan includes four objectives: rapidly expand testing capacity and volume in the state, including for those who are currently contagious and those who may have immunity to the virus; expand the state’s personal protective equipment reserves by opening public and private supply chains; continue to monitor health care systems and hospitals’ capacity and expand that capacity if necessary; and improve the state’s ability to predict potential outbreaks. I believe we have all taken social distancing seriously, and I support the governor’s plan to get Missouri back to work.
Economic Stimulus Payments
This week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) began depositing economic stimulus payments into taxpayer’s bank accounts. Qualifying individuals and families will receive these funds the same way they received their 2019 tax refund (direct deposit or paper check). If you would like to track the status of your stimulus payment, please visit the IRS’ website.
Unemployment Benefits
If you are one of the many Missourians who has lost their job because of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are several resources available to you. The CARES Act included a provision to provide an additional $600 to individuals who qualify for unemployment insurance. The Missouri Division of Employment Security began issuing these payments this week. It may take a little bit of time for everyone to receive their additional benefit, but it is on the way. To apply for unemployment, please visit the Department of Labor’s website.
The Missouri Department of Labor is expected to begin processing applications for the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) Program, possibly as early as next week. This program provides assistance to individuals who are self-employed, gig workers or independent contractors. Individuals who qualify will be eligible for weekly payments of between $133-$320 per week, plus a $600 federal supplement available under the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program. Individuals will have to provide proof of earnings and proof of employment to be eligible for the PUA program. Please visit the Department of Labor’s frequently asked questions guide for more information.
Update on SBA Programs for Businesses
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering a number of loan opportunities for small businesses in our state. Unfortunately, the SBA is no longer accepting applications for the Paycheck Protection Program or the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. However, the SBA is still offering other loan programs and additional resources to qualifying small businesses. Please visit SBA’s website to learn more about loan options for your small business.
State Receives Additional Federal Funding
Missouri is continuing to receive assistance from various federal programs to help our state combat the spread of COVID-19. This week, Missouri received a federal grant to assist with rural transit. The Missouri Department of Transportation will receive $67 million for rural transit programs, such as the OATS service. In addition, Missouri received $208 million in funding, through the CARES Act, to help K-12 schools respond to COVID-19 related needs. These dollars are intended to help schools address technology related needs, such as remote teaching and learning.
Missouri Legislature to Return to Capitol April 27
Last week, the General Assembly passed a supplemental budget bill authorizing $6 billion in federal and state resources to combat COVID-19 in our state. House Bill 2014 will provide immediate funding to our state’s departments and agencies as they combat the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. A significant part of this legislation provides authorization for the state to spend federal funds received through the CARES Act.
Legislative leaders recently announced that the General Assembly would return to the State Capitol on April 27. The General Assembly’s only constitutionally required duty is to pass a balanced budget for the upcoming fiscal year. I believe it is the right time to return to Jefferson City, and I trust the proper precautions will be taken to ensure the safety of all individuals when we return to the Capitol.
Missouri Food Finder
A new online tool is helping Missourians find people growing and selling locally produced food in their area. The Missouri Food Finder helps address an immediate need of many Missourians across the state. This tool will connect consumers with farmers, providing consumers with a local food option and farmers with a new market for their crops.
St. Louis County Updates
The St. Louis County Stay-at-Home Order has also been extended. It was scheduled to expire on April 22. St. Louis’ county executive announced he has extended the stay-at-home order and will revisit the order in mid-May.
St. Louis County officials have created a website for questions concerning COVID-19 in our community. This website includes information about what to do if you think you are sick. Residents who are experiencing symptoms of fever, cough and difficulty breathing should contact the St. Louis County Health Line at 314-615-2660, and those who believe they have been in contact with a person infected with COVID-19 should also call this number.
For more information about COVID-19 in Missouri, please visit the Department of Health and Senior Services’ website at health.mo.gov. You can also call the department’s 24-hour hotline at 877-435-8411 for any questions and concerns. For additional information about COVID-19, please visit the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov.