Coronavirus, Outdoors, Immigration, Polls, Seniors, Hiring Freeze

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 24, 2020

COVID-19 RESPONSE: OIA TAKES ACTION TO HELP STIMULATE US ECONOMY
Source: Outdoor Industry Association
March 18, 2020
Outdoor companies have been severely impacted by the punitive tariffs imposed on certain U.S. imports from China. Products like backpacks, leather ski gloves, camp chairs, some camp stoves and bikes (List 3) have been hit with an additional 25 percent tariff, while some outdoor apparel, footwear and equipment (List 4A) face a 7.5 percent tariff. These higher costs and the uncertainty of when or if the punitive tariffs will be removed have hampered innovation, U.S. job growth and new business opportunities for outdoor companies.
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Olson Joins Houston Colleagues to Issue Bipartisan Joint Statement on COVID-19
Source: U.S. Representative Pete Olson (R-TX, 22nd)
March 19, 2020
“The spread of COVID-19 represents a serious and unprecedented threat to the health and safety of our communities. As members of the Houston Congressional Delegation, we are committed to working together for our region and our country. We will work to acquire the resources, guidance, and support it needs to combat this pandemic. Now is the time for all of us to work together to minimize the spread of coronavirus across our community and our country, protect hard-working families that will be hit the most by this disease, and help small businesses stay afloat while we tackle this ongoing threat. We are Houston Strong and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the community ready to make it through this together.”
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Rep. Omar Leads Letter Calling for Deportation Freeze, Comprehensive Plan to Prevent Outbreak in Immigration Detention Facilities
Source: U.S. Representative Lihan Omar (D-MN, 6th)
March 20, 2020
Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05) led a letter to Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Chad Wolf calling for a suspension of interior immigration enforcement, a deportation freeze, a freeze to in-person immigration court proceedings, and a comprehensive plan to prevent an outbreak in immigration detention facilities during the COVID-19 epidemic. The letter was signed by Reps. Rashida Tlaib, Debbie Dingell, Joseph P. Kennedy III, Barbara Lee, David E. Price, Raúl M. Grijalva, Scott Peters, Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr., Mark Takano, Mark Pocan, Judy Chu, Tony Cárdenas, Jan Schakowsky, and Eleanor Holmes Norton.
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Is it surprising that this Democrat-Muslim is more concerned about illegal immigrants than American Citizens? But, just to be fair, Trump did say in a press conference that he has no interest in deporting anyone right now, because to do so would just put other countries at risk, and we are trying to stop the spread of the virus, not give it to surrounding countries.

New Poll Highlights Support for Aggressive COVID Response
Source: OxFam America
March 20, 2020
US voters overwhelmingly and enthusiastically support aggressive action by Congress and the President to address both the public health and economic crisis caused by COVID-19, according to a new poll released by Oxfam America and Data for Progress released today. The poll showed high support for paid sick leave for all workers, emergency funding for food supplies for those affected by the crisis, free testing for the virus, and moratoriums on evictions, foreclosures, and utility shutoffs.
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O’Halleran, Smith Lead Bipartisan Group to Call on Congressional Leadership to Prioritize Seniors’ Health During Coronavirus Crisis
Source: U.S. Representative Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ, 1st)
March 23, 2020
“While the administration has acted to encourage the use of telehealth in order to prevent unnecessary travel and face-to-face interactions, our nation’s safety net providers in rural health clinics and federally qualified community health centers are currently unable to provide distant site telehealth visits to their patients under Medicare,” wrote O’Halleran, Smith, and cosigners. “Until we resolve this, Medicare patients who receive their care from physicians and practitioners in these facilities must physically come in to receive care.”
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Governor DeWine Orders Hiring Freeze for State Agencies, Boards, and Commissions
Source: Ohio Governor’s Office
March 23, 2020
"Commercial activity is slowing down across Ohio, and as a result, state revenues will also go down dramatically. It is important, as Governor, that I take action now," said Governor DeWine. "The earlier we start slowing down the spending, the more impact it will have."
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Families First, Immigrants, Cattle, Education, Fair Housing, Hospitals, Inmates, Mental Health, Transgenders, Pharmacies, Rulemaking, Student Loans, Internet, Coronavirus

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 22, 2020

Civil Rights and Racial Justice Organizations Denounce Discrimination Against Asian Americans and Urge Unity in Responding to Coronavirus Pandemic
Source: National Congress of American Indians
March 17, 2020
The nation’s leading civil rights and racial justice organizations issued a joint urgent call to action against racism and discrimination targeting Asian Americans related to the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
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The National Council of Jewish Women Applauds the US Senate’s Action On Families First Act
Source: National Council of Jewish Women, Inc.
March 18, 2020
“Among many important provisions, workers will be granted two weeks of emergency paid sick leave and twelve weeks of job-protected emergency paid family and medical leave for employees who work at companies that employ 500 people or less; increased Medicaid funding and guaranteed, no-cost coverage of COVID-19 testing in public and private health insurance; and emergency funding for unemployment insurance and for several nutrition programs, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). These are critical and necessary efforts to ensure individuals and families can stay home while retaining their livelihoods, ultimately reducing pressure on our health care facilities and saving lives.”
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Watchdog Report: May Never Know How Many Children Were Separated
Source: National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights
March 18, 2020
“It’s pretty damning that we may never have a full accounting of how many children were or remain separated – and that Border Patrol still may not be properly tracking families. Not only was this Administration’s family separation policy heartless – they bungled its implementation at every turn. The Acting DHS Secretary claims no children have been lost – but is withholding documents on this matter from Congress. It’s time for the Administration to come clean and provide these so we can get a full accounting of this policy.”
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NAR Survey Finds Nearly Half of Realtors® Say Home Buyer Interest Has Decreased Due to the Coronavirus Outbreak
Source: National Association of Realtors
March 19, 2020
“As the country reels both economically and emotionally from the spread of COVID-19, NCBA has been hard at work ensuring that cattle producers remain able to focus on the national infrastructure priority of keeping high-quality beef available to consumers."
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NCBA Sends Letter to Capitol Hill Urging Relief for Cattle Producers
Source: National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
March 19, 2020
Nearly half of Realtors® – 48% – said home buyer interest has decreased due to the coronavirus outbreak, according to a new survey from the National Association of Realtors®. That percentage tripled from a week ago when it stood at 16%. Almost seven in 10 Realtors® – 69% – said there’s no change in the number of homes on the market due to the coronavirus outbreak, down from 87% a week ago.
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NATIONAL CONSTITUTION CENTER TO INCREASE LIVE ONLINE EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS AND CONVERSATIONS WITH JEFFREY ROSEN AND OTHER CONSTITUTIONAL EXPERTS
Source: National Constitution Center
March 19, 2020
The National Constitution Center today announced increased offerings to support students and citizens with virtual learning resources including live lectures and conversations with constitutional experts.
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NEA to Congress: Put people first to alleviate suffering caused by COVID-19
Source: National Education Association
March 19, 2020
As COVID-19 cases are increasing daily, schools have shuttered, cities are going into quarantine, and panic has begun to grip the American public. Although the Families First Coronavirus Response Act was a step in the right direction to provide much-needed relief, Congress cannot stop there. The National Education Association is calling on members of Congress and the Trump administration to implement immediate financial support measures first, along with regulatory relief that students desperately need from the Department of Education.
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Thousands Submit Comments to HUD Opposing Its Attack on Fair Housing
Source: National Fair Housing Alliance
March 19, 2020
More than 19,500 individuals and organizations submitted comments in response to a Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) proposed rule that would gut an essential civil rights tool under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) before the public comment period closed this week. The Trump administration proposed the rule in January and has since received widespread opposition from a wide array of civil rights advocates, legal experts, business groups and private citizens throughout the country.
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NILC Reacts to Coronavirus Phase 3 Legislation
Source: National Immigration Law Center
March 19, 2020
“The coronavirus phase 3 legislation introduced in the Senate is not a product of bipartisan negotiations. This is another gift to corporations that leaves out millions of tax-paying immigrants, many of whom have family members who are U.S. citizens. Our nation is facing a pandemic that does not discriminate and threatens to wipe out people’s livelihoods and devastate our economy. It is unconscionable that the Republican-controlled Senate continues to play politics with the health and well-being of Americans. We are all at risk when millions are left behind."
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Newhouse Urges Congressional Leadership to Strengthen Rural Hospitals During COVID-19 Outbreak
Source: U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse (R WA, 4th)
March 20, 2020
Rep. Dan Newhouse joined his colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell urgently requesting additional resources for rural health care providers during the COVID-19 outbreak. The letter was signed by a bipartisan group of 28 Members of Congress.
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Norton Calls on U.S. Parole Commission to Use Its Authority to Protect D.C. Residents and Others Under its Jurisdiction During Coronavirus Pandemic
Source: National Constitution Center
March 20, 2020
“The U.S. Parole Commission has the authority to release certain inmates, such as those being held for technical supervision violations,” Norton said. “The Commission should use its authority to ensure the health of inmates, staff and the public.”
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NASW Thanks President Trump, Congress for Swift Action To Promote COVID-19 Mental Health Access
Source: National Association of Social Workers
March 20, 2020
The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) applauds the Trump Administration and Congress for swiftly enacting vitally needed legislation to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, including ensuring broad access to Medicare mental health services via telehealth. Millions of older adults now practicing social distancing to avoid spread of the coronavirus will now be able to receive in-home teletherapy via video chat on their cell phone. NASW urges administration officials and lawmakers who are currently developing the next COVID-19 package, a massive $1 trillion economic stimulus bill, to continue to prioritize strengthening the social safety net.
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State, Regional and National Organizations Urge Gov. Little to Veto Trans Sports Ban Bill
Source: National Center for Transgender Equality
March 20, 2020
House Bill 500 bans transgender student athletes from participating in sports, which is counter to current policies set by the Idaho High School Activities Association. Idaho would become the first state in the country to pass legislation targeting transgender student athletes.
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Letter: Pharmacy has a critical role to play in COVID-19 crisis
Source: National Community Pharmacists Association
March 20, 2020
"As the coronavirus pandemic continues having huge implications on our health care system, small business neighborhood pharmacies are proving what we say all the time: that they are crucial to the health of their community, whether in crisis or not."
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State Groups Request Formal Pause to Active Rulemakings and Non-Rulemaking Notices
Source: National Conference of State Legislatures
March 20, 2020
Seven state organizations, National Governors Association, National Conference of State Legislatures, The Council of State Governments, National League of Cities, National Association of Counties, United States Conference of Mayors and International City/County Management Association, requested President Donald Trump to formally pause all open public comment periods concerning both active rulemakings and non-rulemaking notices across every federal department or agency.
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Trump Administration’s plan to pause student loan payments is woefully insufficient
Source: National Consumer Law Center
March 20, 2020
“The administration’s plan to allow borrowers to request a pause in payments is woefully insufficient for addressing the needs of millions of student loan borrowers struggling during this public health crisis. Borrowers who may be short on funds and have limited bandwidth between juggling changes in their childcare and work plans should not have to also find time to consult with their loan servicer. "
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NDIA has just launched a new, national listing of Free & Low-Cost Internet Plans
Source: National Digital Inclusion Alliance
March 20, 2020
The COVID-19 health crisis has shed light on the need for home internet service, and the large number of American households in all kinds of communities who don’t have it. Some Internet Service Providers have responded with new or improved discount broadband plans, that will only be available for a short time; others continue to offer plans that were created prior to the crisis. NDIA commits to keeping this list of Free & Low-Cost Internet Plans updated daily.
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NIH shifts non-mission-critical laboratory operations to minimal maintenance phase
Source: National Institutes of Health
March 20, 2020
To further reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 and enhance the safety of staff, the National Institutes of Health is shifting all non-mission-critical laboratory operations to a maintenance phase. Beginning on Monday, March 23, only mission-critical functions within NIH research laboratories will be supported. Mission-critical functions include the following: care of research participants in NIH clinical protocols that are non-elective, research directly on COVID-19, urgent public health research recommended by NIH scientific leadership, work involving significant research investments that could be lost if not continued, and protection of life, property and resources, including the care of research animals. This follows a March 13 guidance to all eligible NIH staff to telework to the maximum extent possible.
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Local Leaders Call for Funds Directly for Cities in Senate COVID-19 Legislation
Source: National League of Cities
March 21, 2020
"As local communities continue to combat the spread of COVID-19 across our nation, we need legislation on Capitol Hill that prioritizes getting funding to cities, towns and villages," said Clarence E. Anthony, CEO and Executive Director of the National League of Cities. "Right now, we estimate that nationally, cities will need at least $250 billion in emergency funding. Local leaders stand ready to work beside Congress to help counteract the devastating economic effects brought on by the Coronavirus."
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Public Transportation, Cattle Producers, Infrastructure, SBA, Children with Disabilities, Tariffs, GI Bill, Fetal Tissue Ban, Travel

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 21, 2020

Representatives Moore, García Urge Support for Public Transportation Agencies and their Workforce During Coronavirus Pandemic
Source: U.S. Representative Gwen Moore (D-WI, 4th)
March 20, 2020
“Many Americans are staying in their homes to follow guidance by public health officials to keep our communities safe. This is taking a toll on our overall economy, but will particularly impact our public transportation systems, which have lost ridership and farebox revenues” said Rep. Moore. “Reliable transportation options are a must for any economy and we need to work to ensure that our public transit systems remain viable. I am so proud to join Rep. Chuy Garcia in calling for critical funding to support our public transit agencies and their workers through these trying times.”
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Sen. Moran, Colleagues Urge Secretary Perdue to Make Emergency Payments to Cattle Producers
Source: Senator Jerry Moran- (R - KS)
March 20, 2020
“It is important that we act quickly to provide assistance to cattlemen in these unprecedented times without unnecessarily intruding into the markets,” the senators wrote. “I urge you to use your authorities under the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) Charter Act to make a one-time emergency payment to help beef cattle producers during this crisis.”
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In Midst Of Economic Volatility, Mucarsel-Powell Renews Call for Transformative Infrastructure Investments To Put People To Work In South Florida And Across U.S.
Source: U.S. Representative Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (D-FL, 26th)
March 20, 2020
“The economic crisis we are experiencing now as a result of this global pandemic is unprecedented and requires an extraordinary response,” said Mucarsel-Powell. “Unless we enact big solutions like this, we risk exponential growth in unemployment and a depressed economy. During the Great Depression, the New Deal renewed people’s belief in the American dream. This investment would do the same for generations to come. A nearly billion-dollar infrastructure investment would put people in South Florida and across the nation back to work, fix our crumbling roads and bridges, and take significant steps towards a low-carbon, sustainable future. We need to turn this framework into legislation and pass it now.”
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SBA Loans Available for Small Businesses in Oklahoma
Source: U.S. Representative Markwayne Mullin (R-OK, 2nd)
March 21, 2020
“99 percent of businesses in Oklahoma are small businesses and they need help during this public health crisis,” Mullin said. “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and I applaud Governor Stitt for taking quick action to help them get the relief they need.”
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AS SCHOOLS CLOSE DUE TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC, MURPHY, SENATE DEMOCRATS RELAY CONCERNS FOR CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES TO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Source: Senator Christopher Murphy (D-CT)
March 21, 2020
“Assisting states and districts to navigate their obligations to meet the legal requirements of students’ individualized education plans (IEPs) and individualized family service plans (IFSP) for infants and toddlers with disabilities will be critical during this national public health emergency.”
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Murphy, Cunningham Urge Congressional Leadership to Suspend Tariffs in Upcoming Coronavirus Response Bill
Source: U.S. Representative Stephanie Murphy (D-FL, 7th)
March 18, 2020
The Trump administration has imposed tariffs on many Chinese imports under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 and on aluminum and steel imports from nearly every country under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. This has led China and many other countries to retaliate by imposing tariffs on a wide variety of American exports. Today, 161 trade associations representing businesses in every sector urged the President to temporarily suspend these tariffs.
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Senator Murray Applauds Congressional Passage of Legislation to Protect GI Bill Benefits As Colleges Close or Go Online Due to Coronavirus
Source: Senator Patty Murray (D-WA)
March 21, 2020
Housing allowances under the Post-9/11 GI Bill are based on whether student veterans attend a university in person versus an online program. As colleges and universities close campuses to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, veterans on the GI Bill could lose or have their benefits cut. This bill would allow these student veterans to continue to receive full benefits even if the colleges they are attending decide to close or temporarily move classes online due to coronavirus. Senator Murray helped introduced this bill last week with U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Jon Tester, respectively the Chairman and the top Democrat on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.
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Rep. Nadler Statement Condemning Trump Administration for Refusing to Lift Fetal Tissue Ban for COVID-19 Vaccine Research
Source: U.S. Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-NY, 10th)
March 19, 2020
"Scientists have told Congress again and again that fetal tissue is the gold standard for vaccine research. The ban on this research imposed by the Trump Administration last year has no scientific purpose, with reports showing it already impacting promising, life-saving medical research. This new report reveals that even in the midst of a worldwide pandemic, the Trump administration is unwilling to set aside their dangerous anti-science bias to allow research to go forward simply because it involves fetal tissue."
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CONGRESSMAN NEGUSE URGES IMMEDIATE AND COMPREHENSIVE ACTION TO ENSURE EVERY AMERICAN ABROAD MAY RETURN HOME AMIDST THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC
Source: U.S. Representative Joe Neguse (D-CO, 2nd)
March 20, 2020
“We have heard from an alarming number of constituents whose family members have been unable to leave certain affected areas due to closed borders, movement restrictions, mandatory quarantines, and canceled flights,” Congressman Neguse writes in the letter. “They have contacted us from Peru, Morocco, the Philippines, Honduras, China, Cambodia, Chile, Guatemala, and several other countries looking for clear guidance as they navigate this difficult and frightening landscape to return home to their families. In some instances, constituents informed us that they have been unable to establish any level of communication with U.S. Embassy and Consular personnel.”
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Coronavirus: Texas, Vaccines and Scams

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In Texas, Governor Greg Abbot has ordered all restaurants, gyms, schools, and other places of public gatherings where there are more than 10 people to close their doors. Restaurants are allowed to do carry-out and drive-thru, but their dining rooms are off limits to the public, starting at midnight tonight.

The IRS is deferring tax payment due dates and associated tax penalties for 90 days for individuals and small businesses due to the Coronavirus crisis.

Price Gouging in Texas: 1-800-621-0508

Texas is up to 352 confirmed cases of Coronovirus (up from this morning's 307). Only 5 deaths reported, with 4 recovered.

University Hospitals has secured two clinical trials that will provide the investigational antiviral drug remdesivir to hospitalized adults with a pneumonia due to the novel coronavirus. One trial will focus on COVID-19 patients with moderate illness. The second will focus on patients with more severe illness who may require care in the intensive care unit (ICU).

"This is some promising news in the midst of this COVID-19 situation," said Daniel Simon, MD, Chief Clinical & Scientific Officer and President, UH Cleveland Medical. "Our UH research team has worked closely with the manufacturer, Gilead, in recent days to secure the studies. We are grateful to be one of the first sites in the U.S. to participate in these clinical trials. Both trials are now approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and our Institutional Review Board, and we are expecting shipment of the experimental drug remdesivir in the next couple of days."

They say that necessity is the mother of invention. Many people, groups and organizations are shifting to remote operations during this crisis. As a result, many businesses are learning and growing online. Even schools and colleges and adapting to the "new norm" in the face of this crisis. The Ponder predicts that, soon, there will be nothing you can't do online. For those who have no internet access and refuse to learn, it is going to be harder to adapt. Our elderly are going to be the most effected and confused by this change.

Trump signs the Defense Production Act to Combat Coronavirus

President Trump invoked the Defense Production Act to expand production of ventilators, masks and other emergency medical supplies. The DPA requires companies to accept and prioritize contracts from the government and to prioritize "materials, services, and facilities to promote the national defense."

At the same news briefing, Vice President Pence said that the Department of Health and Human Services soon will issue a regulation to “allow all doctors and medical professionals to practice across state lines to meet the needs of hospitals that may arise in the adjoining areas.”

Trump stated last night that, "I only signed the Defense Production Act to combat the Chinese Virus should we need to invoke it in a worst case scenario in the future. Hopefully there will be no need, but we are all in this TOGETHER!"

Read more about it:

What exactly is the Defense Production Act?
Source: Navy Times
March 19, 2020
President Donald Trump on Wednesday invoked a Korean War-era law as part of his response to the coronavirus pandemic, aiming to boost private industry production of supplies needed for the health crisis.
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New Jersey asks for Military Intervention and More News about the Coronavirus Epidemic

New Jersey has reported over 400 positive cases of COVID-19 and five deaths, according to Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ). He is requesting that the military get involved due to shortages of hospital beds. Senator Menendez joined the New Jersey Delegation in a letter to Trump, which reads in part:

“The State of New Jersey is already working around the clock to revitalize and expand hospital infrastructure, but it will need support from the federal government to be sufficiently prepared for the anticipated influx of severe COVID-19 cases,” New Jersey’s congressional delegation wrote in a letter to President Trump. “New Jersey has already mobilized its national guard to investigate how to increase hospital infrastructure. Furthermore, our state’s Health Commissioner has been working with hospitals in reopening closed hospital wings, and is reviewing if it is possible to restore a closed hospital. Support at the federal level will help our state to meet its needs and allow those who contract the coronavirus to receive lifesaving healthcare.”

Mental Health America (MHA) announced that 1,015 additional mental health screeners nationwide have screened with a severe anxiety result in the month since the coronavirus worry began to emerge. “We have been monitoring an overall increase in anxiety screening since the middle of February, when concerns about COVID-19 began to grow,” reported Paul Gionfriddo, president and CEO of MHA

In a ruling that blocks the Trump Administration’s stricter work requirements for certain recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, Chief Judge Beryl A. Howell of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia ruled in favor of the attorneys general for 19 states, the District of Columbia, the City of New York, and 3 private plaintiffs, to temporarily block the finalized rule that would have gone into effect on April 1, and stripped benefits from an estimated 700,000 able-bodied adults without dependents, or ABAWDs.

Even without the ruling, the Family First legislation that was just passed to assist Americans during the Coronavirus crisis suspends this requirement temporarily.

To meet the needs of borrowers who may be impacted by the coronavirus, last week Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (“the Enterprises”) reminded mortgage servicers that hardship forbearance is an option for borrowers who are unable to make their monthly mortgage payment,” Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Mark Calabria said in a statement.

“As with any other event that negatively impacts a borrower’s ability to pay their monthly mortgage payment, FHA’s suite of loss mitigation options provides solutions that mortgagees should offer to distressed borrowers – including those that could be impacted by the Coronavirus – to help prevent them from going into foreclosure. These home retention options are located in FHA’s Single Family Housing Policy Handbook 4000.1 Section III.A.2,” FHA said in a statement

Oregon’s U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) have joined Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), to introduce legislation that would ensure Americans are able to vote this year, despite disruptions caused by COVID-19. The bill would expand early in-person voting and no-excuse absentee vote-by-mail to all states, and allowing voters who did not receive an absentee ballot to use a printable ballot currently only provided for military and overseas voters. The legislation comes as five states have already postponed primaries in response to the pandemic.

Red Cross Needs Blood Donors

The Ponder is dedicated to informing the public about what is going on in Washington that concerns you as American Citizens. But, more than that, we are also dedicated to getting any information out that helps you during this (and any other) time of crisis.

Having said that,

The Red Cross is asking for donations of blood. Seems there is a shortage of blood donors since the Coronavirus scare.

Their website states:

"The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this coronavirus outbreak. Healthy individuals are needed to donate now to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.

Donating blood is a safe process and people should not hesitate to give or receive blood. Watch this video on the safety and need for blood donations. Right now, eligible and healthy donors are strongly urged to make an appointment to give soon. But please postpone your donation for 28 days following travel to China and its special administrative regions, Hong Kong and Macau, as well as Iran, Italy and South Korea, or if you’ve been diagnosed with or have had contact with anyone with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19."

Read more, and find out how YOU can safely donate, by clicking HERE

Coronavirus, March for Life, Maternal Health, Prescription Drugs, Business Start-ups, Cruise Industry, Immigration, Health Care

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 17, 2020

I would just like to say that, in light of this Coronavirus scare, President Trump is doing an OUTSTANDING job working around the clock to get this thing under control!

He has utilized ALL RESOURCES AVAILABLE and has done his best to put politics aside to make sure every American is cared for during this crisis in a variety of ways -- including financially.

He has done his best to decrease panic, as well as maintain urgency at the same time.

Thank you, Mr. President for being such a strong leader during this time, and I don't think anyone else could have, or even WOULD have, done better!

--Shonda Ponder, Editor-in-chief

UPCOMING EVENT: First-ever official California March for Life to take place in Sacramento on June 23rd, 2020
Source: March for Life
March 17, 2020
March for Life is honored to partner with the California Family Council to organize the first-ever official California March for Life on June 23rd, 2020 in Sacramento, California. Marchers will rally at the state capitol to call for an end to pro-abortion extremism in the state.
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McBath Leads Legislation, Joins Colleagues to Unveil Historic Legislative Package to Address America’s Maternal Health Crisis
Source: U.S. Representative Lucy McBath (D-GA, 6th)
March 10, 2020
Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) joined Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and Alma Adams (NC-12), Senator Kamala Harris (D-CA), and members of the Black Maternal Health Caucus to introduce a historic legislative package to address the United States’ urgent maternal health crisis. McBath’s legislation, the Social Determinants for Moms Act, is included in the legislative omnibus, or “Momnibus,” and funds access to services and critical research to help save the lives of American women.
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REPRESENTATIVE MALINOWSKI URGES INSURANCE COMPANIES TO CLARIFY RULES FOR PRESCRIPTION DRUG REFILLS
Source: U.S. Representative Tom Malinowsky (D-NJ, 7th)
March 11, 2020
Representative Tom Malinowski led a group of 11 of his colleagues in sending a letter to Matt Eyles, President and CEO of America’s Health Insurance Plans, and the eight major American insurance providers, to clarify that patients will continue to have access to life saving prescriptions as the coronavirus epidemic grows.
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SEC adopts McAdams and Hollingsworth proposal to cut red tape on promising start-ups
Source: U.S. Representative Ben McAdams (D-UT, 4th)
March 12, 2020
Legislation by Congressman Ben McAdams and Congressman Trey Hollingsworth (R-IN) giving commonsense regulatory relief for America’s growing companies was essentially adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in a rule-making action. McAdams introduced the Fostering Innovation Act in 2019 as a narrow fix that allows small emerging growth companies to keep capital working to fund business needs, rather than expensive regulatory filings.
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MARCH OF DIMES LAUNCHES MOM AND BABY COVID-19 INTERVENTION AND SUPPORT FUND
Source: March of Dimes
March 13, 2020
March of Dimes launched the Mom and Baby COVID-19 Intervention and Support Fund to help protect moms and babies from COVID-19, the new coronavirus disease. As the public grapples with the spread of the disease, March of Dimes is serving as a resource for moms and providing them with the information and resources they need to protect their families.
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Maloney Helps Pass Second, Bipartisan Coronavirus Response Package
Source: U.S. Representative Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY, 18th)
March 14, 2020
Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (NY-18) helped pass Congress’s second, bipartisan COVID-19, or novel coronavirus, response package. The bill will provide: free coronavirus testing for every American who needs a test, including the uninsured, paid emergency leave for workers, unemployment insurance protections for furloughed workers; more money for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), senior and student meal programs, and food banks; and increased federal funds for Medicaid.
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Rep. Maloney Votes to Pass Legislation to Support America's Families Facing COVID-19
Source: U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney (D-NY, 12th)
March 14, 2020
As our nation grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to make sure that families across this country have the resources they need to take care of themselves and their loved ones. We need to make paid leave available so that employees aren’t faced with the impossible decision to give up a paycheck or go into work while sick and we need to make sure that we are looking after American’s financial wellbeing, in addition to their health.
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MARSHALL SUPPORTS AMERICAN WORKER DURING COVID-19 OUTBREAK
Source: U.S. Representative Roger Marshall (R-KS, 1st)
March 14, 2020
After voting YES on a bill to support American workers and the economy during the COVID-19 outbreak, U.S. Congressman Roger Marshall, M.D., issued the following statement: “We are helping President Trump deliver free tests, emergency paid leave, and flexibility for families and small businesses affected by Coronavirus. During his address from the Oval Office earlier this week and today in the Rose Garden, President Trump assured the American people that he would use the full force of the federal government to continue to curb the spread of the coronavirus here at home. As a physician and Member of Congress, my highest concern and priority is the health and safety of Kansans. I'm relieved we could come together to produce a thoughtful, bipartisan piece of legislation with input from the Trump Administration. The health and well-being of American families comes first and I look forward to these measures being implemented as soon as possible.”
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Congressman McCaul votes to support American families and workers impacted by Coronavirus
Source: U.S. Representative Michael T. McCaul (R-TX, 10th)
March 14, 2020
This virus does not discriminate based on your health insurance, your political party, or your age. That is why I voted in favor of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.
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MANCHIN CALLS ON SENATE TO ACT NOW ON EMERGENCY CORONAVIRUS FUNDING
Source: Senator, Joe Manchin, III - (D - WV)
March 16, 2020
“I have no doubt Democrats and Republicans will come together and take care and help people and will come to the aid of the economy of our country and I hope they realize the people that really need help are the people that cannot make it from one week to the next let alone one paycheck to the next. My state also has the most endangered population in the nation,” said Senator Manchin. “But out of 1.8 million people, we have only tested 84. When the virus is found in my state, we are not prepared for it because we don't even have the tests to identify who is ill, who needs these treatments and needs the hospital care, and we don’t have medical equipment we need to support our vulnerable citizens. We need to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act now. This emergency funding that has already been passed in the House is vital to supporting our most vulnerable people. We have to do something and do it quickly. We should sit here and protest until it does come. There is no reason we can't do it tonight. We must come together, all of us, to fight this deadly virus.”
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MAZON Deeply Concerned About the Adverse Effects of Coronavirus Crisis on Low-Income Women and Families, Urges Further Congressional Action
Source: MAZON - A Jewish Response to Hunger
March 16, 2020
A Jewish Response to Hunger lauds the U.S. House of Representatives for recently passing the “Families First Coronavirus Response Act” (H.R. 6201) and urges the Senate to immediately follow suit.
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Matsui Calls on Congress to Oppose Cruise Industry Bailout
Source: U.S. Representative Doris O. Matsui (D-CA, 6th)
March 16, 2020
Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-6), sent the following letter to Reps. Richard Neal (MA-1), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Peter DeFazio (OR-4), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, urging them to oppose any bailout of the cruise industry and instead focus on supporting the federal response to the coronavirus.
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Senator Markey Calls on DHS to Halt Deportations, Release Immigrants from Detention
Source: Senator Edward J.Markey (D-MA)
March 17, 2020
U.S. immigration detention centers have been called a “[public health] disaster waiting to happen,” due to their crowded conditions and Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s history of medical neglect and substandard care. Except in limited circumstances, the DHS has the authority to release noncitizens from detention while they await immigration court proceedings. Senator Markey is calling on the Acting Secretary to use this authority and release eligible individuals from its custody.
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Baker-Polito Administration Announces Changes To Expedite Health Care Licensing, Increase Support For Local Boards Of Health And Small Businesses
Source: Massachusetts Governor’s Office
March 17, 2020
Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced further actions to support residents, health care providers, and small businesses during the COVID-19 outbreak. The Administration today announced several emergency orders expediting the onboarding process of more licensed health care professionals. The Administration is also distributing an initial $5 million in emergency funding to local boards of health throughout the Commonwealth, with more funding to be distributed soon. The Administration also took additional steps to support small businesses affected by the COVID-19 outbreak by formally seeking relief from the Small Business Administration.
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McConnell on Coronavirus: This is a Moment for Bold and Bipartisan Action
Source: Senator Mitch McConnell (R- KY)
March 17, 2020
Senate Republicans are convinced that the House’s non-comprehensive bill can only be the beginning of our efforts to support our health system, assist individual Americans and families, and stabilize the U.S. economy.
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The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America - 15 Days to Slow the Spread
Source: Major City Chiefs Police Association
March 17, 2020
1. Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities.

2. If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider.

3. If your children are sick, keep them at home. Do not send them to school. Contact your medical provider.

4. If someone in your household has tested positive for the coronavirus, keep the entire household at home. Do not go to work. Do not go to school. Contact your medical provider.

5. If you are an older person, stay home and away from other people.

6. If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition that can put you at increased risk (for example, a condition that impairs your lung or heart function or weakens your immune system), stay home and away from other people.

7. Even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others. It is critical that you do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus:

 Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible.

 If you work in a critical infrastructure industry, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security, such as healthcare services and pharmaceutical and food supply, you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule. You and your employers should follow CDC guidance to protect your health at work.

 Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people.

 Avoid eating or drinking in bars, restaurants, and food courts – use drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options.

 Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits.

 Do not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance.

 Practice good hygiene:
o Wash your hands, especially after touching any frequently used item or surface.
o Avoid touching your face.
o Sneeze or cough into a tissue, or the inside of your elbow.
o Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible.
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National Emergency, Coronavirus, CDC Recommendations, Rail Crossings

Today's News for the Week Prior and Up to March 15, 2020

LOWEY QUESTIONS CDC DIRECTOR ON CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE AND FY21 BUDGET REQUEST
Source: U.S. Representative Nita Lowey (D-NY, 17th)
March 10, 2020
“One week ago, my home county of Westchester, New York, had its first confirmed coronavirus case; today we have 98, with a total of 142 throughout New York State and more than 700 nationwide, including, tragically, 26 deaths. This stunning increase requires every level of government to work together and aggressively to contain and stop the spread of Covid-19."
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Santa Clara County Elected Leaders Call for Vital Information from TSA on Employees at Mineta San Jose Airport who Tested Positive for COVID-19
Source: U.S. Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-CA, 19th)
March 11, 2020
“If these employees were not in direct contact with travelers, we seek to reassure consumers. However, if the employees were posted at security checkpoints and had direct contact with travelers, we believe more information about posting locations and shift times should be made available to the public."
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LUJÁN STATEMENT ON CONFIRMED COVID-19 CASES IN NEW MEXICO
Source: U.S. Representative Ben R. Lujan (D-NM, 3rd)
March 11, 2020
“I continue to urge New Mexicans to follow guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the New Mexico Department of Health to prevent the spread of illness and stay healthy. As we collectively address this threat, I will keep New Mexicans updated at each step.”
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REP LIEU STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF THE FAMILY FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT
Source: U.S. Representative Ted Lieu (D-CA, 33rd)
March 12, 2020
“I am pleased the House of Representatives passed the Family First Coronavirus Response Act, so that we can take another critical step to help Americans as we combat this deadly illness,” Rep. Ted Lieu said. “To mitigate the harm of the coronavirus, we must ensure anyone who needs a test can get one at no cost. Additionally, American families and workers must have protections should they get sick or have to change their work arrangements because of the coronavirus. I’m pleased that this bill addresses those issues, in addition to others. We have to give our first responders the resources and support they need to save lives. Stopping the coronavirus requires all of us, regardless of party, to work together for the collective good. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill quickly so we can mitigate this deadly virus.”
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THE FAMILY FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT includes:

Free coronavirus testing

Emergency paid leave

Enhanced unemployment insurance

Strengthened food security initiatives

Increased federal funds for Medicaid

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act provides $1.2 billion to help cover the costs of coronavirus testing, including $142 million to eliminate copay requirements for servicemembers and veterans.

The bill includes $1.25 billion to provide emergency nutritional assistance for senior citizens, women, children, and low-income families, including; $500 million for Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children; $400 million for the Emergency Food Assistance Program; and $250 million for senior nutrition.

The bill also includes $15 million for the Internal Revenue Service to administer tax credits.

Coronavirus precautions include:

Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and frequently

Covering your cough or sneeze with your arm

Avoiding touching your face

Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Avoiding close contact with others

And staying home if you are sick

If you are sick, Click HERE to find out what to do!

Luetkemeyer Statement on President Trump’s National Emergency Declaration
Source: U.S. Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-MI, 3rd)
March 13, 2020
“Today, President Trump took another important step to maintain the health and safety of the American people. The Administration gathered leaders from the American medical community and major retailers to create a plan that will greatly increase our capacity to test, treat and support our country. As Dr. Anthony Fauci stated today, the spread of the coronavirus will eventually end, but this emergency declaration will help it end sooner. Right now, it is important that we continue to practice commonsense health practices like handwashing, while exercising enhanced caution when it comes to our elderly and vulnerable Americans.”
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Congressman Lipinski Introduces Groundbreaking Bills to Reduce Blocked Rail Crossings, Improve Metra Service, and Limit Trains' Impact on Communities
Source: U.S. Representative Daniel Lipinski (D-IL, 3rd)
March 13, 2020
“I am thrilled to introduce this package of legislation that takes into account months of work holding hearings with community members, rail industry representatives, public officials, and passenger advocates to figure out the best way forward to fix problems we see with trains in our communities,” said Congressman Lipinski. “My staff and I listened closely to the concerns of all interested parties and these bills are the culmination of countless hours drafting and fine-tuning. From exploring innovative solutions that will improve safety and end the gridlock caused by idling or broken-down trains in the Chicago area and around the country, to streamlining functionality at Chicago Union Station, these bills can make a dramatic impact. I look forward to discussing these with my colleagues in the Rail Subcommittee and working with them to pass them into law.”
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Chairman Lynch, Chairwoman Maloney And Oversight Chairs Issue Joint Statement On President Trump Declaring National Emergency
Source: U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA, 8th)
March 13, 2020
“President Trump’s decision to finally declare this emergency is long overdue. We asked FEMA to testify at our Committee hearing earlier this week to hear about their emergency preparedness and response to the coronavirus crisis, but they declined, claiming that ‘the Agency does not feel as if there is much that we would be able to testify to.’ We could not disagree more. Over the past three months, there should have been intense planning to protect our food supply, expand hospital capacity, and manage a host of other emergency response challenges. Instead, the Trump Administration has been inexcusably slow in responding to this crisis, and the President and some of his top aides have been shockingly dishonest about their actions to counter this threat to the American people. We need leadership, we need competence, we need honesty, and we need to come together as a nation to help each other.”
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Rep. Long Issues Statement on H.R. 6201 FAMILY FIRST CORONAVIRUS RESPONSE ACT
Source: U.S. Representative Billy Long (R-MI, 7th)
March 14, 2020
“The only opportunity Members of Congress had to review the text of the 110-page bill was 30 minutes before we voted on it. That was after two days of trying my best to find out what would be in the bill and what we would be voting on. With the Senate having all weekend to review the bill, I look forward to them sending their version back to the House in a form that I can support. Americans have faced many challenges since the founding of our country and we have always pulled together to fight whatever foe and this battle against the Coronavirus will be no different.”
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Congresswoman Elaine Luria Votes for Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Source: U.S. Representative Elaine Luria (D-VA, 2nd)
March 14, 2020
“As the coronavirus epidemic spreads to new localities every day, it is Congress’ duty to act to ensure families and workers will stay safe and healthy,” said Congresswoman Luria. “The Families First Coronavirus Response Act provides much-needed support for Americans who are most at-risk for the economic and health consequences of this outbreak. I urge the Senate to stand up for families and workers across our nation by quickly passing this urgent legislation.”
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State of Louisiana Reports Second COVID-19 Related Death
Source: Louisiana Governor’s Office
March 15, 2020
"Sadly, we have lost our second Louisianan to COVID-19,” said Gov. Edwards. “We ask the state to join us in sending prayers to the family members and friends who are going through this difficult time. As the number of positive cases continues to rise, we need every person to take the necessary actions to help reduce the spread of this virus. It is an extremely serious situation that demands all of our attention. Our elderly and those with chronic health conditions are the most vulnerable, but we all need to act responsibly and look out for ourselves and our neighbors.”
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