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Here is an update for July 30th.

Thought of the day: “Walk with the wind, brothers and sisters, and let the spirit of peace and the power of everlasting love be your guide.” — John Lewis

Our nation has hit 150,000 deaths related to COVID-19. Nationally, we reported over 63,000 cases. Michigan reported 996 new cases — this is an uptick in cases. Unemployment has also increased, with 1,434,000 Americans last week filing initial claims for unemployment. If you or anyone you know needs to file for unemployment, please visit here.

Today is the funeral of John Lewis and I will be in Atlanta to say my final goodbye. Yesterday, we gathered on the Capitol Steps as he left the Capitol for the final leg of his journey on earth. I leave you with this farewell essay John Lewis asked the New York Times to publish on the day of his funeral. Goodbye, my dear friend. 

Today is also the 55th anniversary of President Johnson signing Medicare. My John fought for it and helped lead the charge and stood next to President Lyndon Johnson when it was signed into law. As a nation, our values are judged by how we help our most vulnerable citizens. Whether our neighbors who are struggling financially or growing older in age, these programs have helped millions of Americans. Now, in the midst of a global pandemic, we have seen how access to healthcare is a matter of life and death. That’s why it is so important we continue to protect and improve upon these programs. Anything less than that is a let down to the millions of hardworking men and women whose lives depend upon them. And I look forward to the day when we can deliver Medicare for All and guarantee quality healthcare for every American.

Governor Whitmer amended Michigan’s Safe Start Order & issued revised workplace safeguards. As of July 31st, statewide indoor gatherings will be limited to 10 people and bars will be closed for indoor service across the state. She said this was a tough decision, but believes it is the right decision. I too agree with this. We’ve had an uptick in cases. We must make sure we’re being safe. 

Michigan health officials have announced they are working on a plan to use text messaging for contact tracing. We will provide an update when we learn more — what number you will receive the text from, etc. Once the program is launched, and you receive a text from the Michigan Health Department, please respond. Contact tracing is incredibly helpful in tracking and learning more about the virus. 

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.