Bergman Supports Bipartisan Coronavirus Legislation

Statement

Congressman Bergman issued the following release after the House agreed to a bipartisan legislative package to further fund and prepare our communities for the Coronavirus:

"In times of hardship and crisis, leaders must work together for the common good of the American people. My staff and I are continuing our proactive approach and have been in discussions with Governor Whitmer, all state legislators from the First District, tribal leaders, emergency managers, doctors and healthcare leaders, Veteran facility administrators, and many additional local and state leaders."

"Now is the time for positive action and proactive decision making in our communities as we prepare for the likely spread and effects Coronavirus could have on our system. H.R. 6201 will help keep our communities safe - providing free COVID-19 testing, ensuring our children have nutrition assistance available, and helping small businesses and employees secure the relief they will need in the days ahead," said Rep. Bergman.

Additionally, H.R. 6201:

- Provides for free testing-- which builds on private-sector efforts-- to ensure no cost barriers for Americans seeking medically appropriate diagnostic lab tests for the coronavirus.

- Makes good on President Trump's promise to provide financial assistance for working Americans who are "ill, quarantined, or caring for others due to coronavirus" -- and it does so via a tax credit to employers rather than a new entitlement.

- Protects seniors and those with severe medical conditions by ensuring the Social Security Administration is not running a new paid leave program for those affected by COVID-19.

- Targets relief to the duration of the COVID-19 threat. If the threat subsides, the cost will be lower, but if the threat increases, support will be available.

- Ensures the health provisions are targeted to COVID-19 without including unrelated treatments, ensuring Hyde protections remain intact.
The State of Michigan Launches COVID-19 Hotline

This will be used to respond to health-related questions about COVID-19 and to direct residents, providers, and more to the right resources in their local communities and other state government departments.

They can be reached from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. seven days a week at 1-888-533-6136.

Source