This week, the U.S. Senate passed a $2 trillion plan intended to help offset the effects of the coronavirus COVID-19 across the nation. Senate Democrats pushed for strong worker protections that will help working people in a number of ways. Here are some of highlights that may matter to you:
- Direct payments: Single Americans would receive $1,200, couples $2,400 and $500 will be sent for each child under age 17
- Unemployment Insurance: Jobless workers will receive an extra $600 a week for four months. The maximum unemployment term will be extended up to 13 weeks and covered by the federal government. Provisions would also allow independent contractors, self-employed and gig economy workers unemployment benefits
- Student loan payments: Borrowers payments will be suspended without penalty through September 30
- Funding for health care system: $150 billion will be invested in personal protection equipment, emergency operation centers, workforce training, and more.
- Small business rescue plan: $377 billion in emergency grants, loans and other financial assistance are a part of this plan
- Funding for state and local coronavirus expenses: $150 billion to aid state and local governments in their response to coronavirus
- Protection against foreclosures and evictions: These protections provide forbearance for those with federal mortgages
The bill carries a number of important provisions to help local schools continue education, to assist public transit, airlines and railways, to increase production of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals and more. You can read about the full plan here.
We know there are specific concerns that matter to the people of Pennsylvania as the coronavirus pandemic continues. Know that Senator Hughes and the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Caucus are also working provide aid and long-term protections to our people.
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| COVID-19: Social Distancing |
Here is guide issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, helping provide clear guidance and direction in response to coronavirus COVID-19. The residents of Philadelphia and its suburbs have been ordered to remain at home as to help prevent spread of coronavirus, find out what that means for you.
Montgomery County is doing the same.
Here are some reminders about preventing spread of the disease:
Best practices to plan, prepare for and respond to the coronavirus COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
What are the symptoms of coronavirus?
Symptoms of the COVID-19 can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
The symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure. Reported illnesses have ranged from people with little to no symptoms to people being severely ill and dying.
What to do if you think you have coronavirus COVID-19, according to the CDC:
- Stay home except to get medical care
- Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home
- Call ahead before visiting your doctor
- Wear a facemask if you are sick
- Cover your coughs and sneezes
- Clean your hands often
- Avoid sharing personal household items
- Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday
For more details on what to do prevent coronavirus COVID-19 spread, visit the CDCs full list of recommendations.
