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Here is an update for August 10th. 

Thought of the day: “It is our attitude at the beginning of a difficult task which, more than anything else, will affect its successful outcome.” -- William James

Over the weekend, our country passed a milestone with more than five million COVID-19 cases. No other country has reported as many cases. Brazil ranks second, with about three million, and India is third with two million. COVID remains a reality in our country.

Yesterday, Michigan reported 514 new cases related to COVID-19. This was a decrease from the cases reported on Saturday. Nationally, we reported over 48,000 cases which is part of a gradual decrease from late July when cases were being reported in the 60,000s. While this is a positive trend nationwide, we have begun to see a negative trend of cases increasing among teens. According to the Detroit Free Press, data shows that after Governor Whitmer began to lift some stay home orders on June 1, those in the 0 to 19-year-old age group began to see a slightly faster rise in cases. This virus can touch anyone, we have to remember to be smart, wear our masks, not travel to crowded areas, and do what’s best for our community. 

Over the weekend, President Trump signed an executive order that extends additional unemployment payments of $400 a week. This is a decrease from the previous $600 a week and would require states to commit to providing $100 of the unemployment. Many states, including Michigan are already facing budget crunches caused by the pandemic. They have expenses from COVID-19. They have lost revenue from shelter in place. What we need right now is both sides need to come to an agreement on an all-inclusive COVID relief package that not only helps people, but gives states the funds they need.

This Wednesday at 6:00pm, I invite you to join me, State and Washtenaw County officials, and housing experts for a conversation on affordable housing and what steps are being taken to ensure you and your family have a home to stay in during the pandemic. This conversation is so important to thousands of Michiganders. You or someone you know who has questions should RSVP by clicking the image below.
Today is the 50th anniversary of when former Michigan Congresswoman Martha Griffiths first led the Equal Rights Amendment out of the Judiciary Committee for approval by the House of Representatives. However, session for Congress that year ended before the Senate could vote on it. It wasn’t until the next Congressional Session that  Martha Griffiths reintroduced the Equal Rights Amendment with great success. The Equal Rights Amendment was then approved by the House and the Senate. Martha’s relentless work got this through the Congress but isn’t it time for us to add this to the Constitution? Close to 50 years is long enough to wait.
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.