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Dingell Update: June 17, 2020

Here is an update for June 17th. 
 
Thought of the day: “Have a vision. Be demanding.” — Colin Powell
 
On Tuesday, Michigan reported 18 COVID-19 related deaths and 125 new COVID-19 cases. The average of deaths and cases have been falling, but that doesn’t mean the virus is gone. At a moment’s notice, the number of cases and deaths could spike. Be careful out there and listen to what the health experts have to say. 
 
With Michigan beginning to reopen the economy, we must stay focused on taking proper precautions to keep everyone safe. When out, wear a mask, carry hand sanitizer, wash your hands frequently, and keep physical distance. Businesses and health experts are working around the clock to ensure everything is safe and done properly on their end. Just make sure you take the proper precautions on your end. 
 
There is a need for change in our country and we have to figure out how to do that. Next week, the House is expected to vote on the Justice in Policing Act. This morning, the Senate announced their own proposal. We must work together to bring tangible and real reform that keeps our communities safe.
 
The Energy and Commerce Committee, which I serve on, will hold a hearing on June 23rd on the nation’s COVID-19 response. The Committee will be joined by Trump Administration officials who have been leading the response. One notable witness joining will be Dr. Fauci. COVID-19 is still out there and this hearing will allow us in Congress to focus on what’s working, what isn’t working, and what needs to be improved so we can defeat this virus.
 
Michigan is the first state in the nation to achieve our 2010 response rate (67.7%) for the Census. This means we will be surpassing our response rate from 2010 within the same period of time, despite all the challenges we’re currently facing. This is good news and shows Michiganders are actively participating in shaping their future. The Census helps with funding for human rights like health care, food, and housing. It says who leads political institutions, and it allows us to gather evidence to protect people from discrimination. If you have not yet, please visit my2020census.gov to make your voice heard. It only takes a minute. 
 
Canada and the U.S. have agreed to extend their agreement to keep their border closed to non-essential travel to July 21. Essential cross-border workers like healthcare professionals, airline crews and truck drivers are still permitted to cross. 

Team Dingell is here seven days a week and wants to listen and help. It isn’t as smooth as we want on some issues, but we will never stop fighting for you. Call our office at 313-278-2936 or contact us through Facebook or our webpage.
 
New information becomes available every day. Below is a list of resources and information that can be helpful during this time. Please share this information with your family, friends, and colleagues. Remember, stay home, stay safe, save lives.

Coronavirus information

File for unemployment

Small Businesses can apply for low-interest disaster loans

Navigating Social Security Benefits
 
School Based Food Service Interactive Map
 
Food Banks and Kitchens in Michigan's 12th Congressional District
 
Contact numbers for people looking for information are:
• Centers for Disease Control, cdc.gov/coronavirus, 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636).
Michigan.gov/coronavirus, or 888-535-6136.
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