June 26, 2020 Dear Friend,As Montgomery and Berks counties move to the Green Phase today, remember that COVID-19 remains a highly dangerous and contagious virus. We must continue to practice vigilance by social distancing and prioritizing hand hygiene. Below you will find information on the Green Phase, legislative updates, and other resources: Green Phase The Green Phase allows for a more robust opening, but it does not signal a return to normal. We must continue to practice social distancing and exercise extreme caution, to ensure the continued downward trend of COVID-19. Below are the expectations put forth by Governor Wolf: Work and Congregate Settings Restrictions - Continued Telework Strongly Encouraged
- Businesses with In-Person Operations Must Follow Updated Business and Building Safety Requirements
- All Businesses Operating at 50% Occupancy in the Yellow Phase May Increase to 75% Occupancy
- Child Care May Open Complying with Guidance
- Congregate Care Restrictions in Place
- Prison and Hospital Restrictions Determined by Individual Facilities
- Schools Subject to CDC and Commonwealth Guidance
Social Restrictions - Large Gatherings of More Than 250 Prohibited
- Masks are Required When Entering a Business
- Restaurants and Bars Open at 50% Occupancy
- Personal Care Services (including hair salons and barbershops) Open at 50% Occupancy and by Appointment Only
- Indoor Recreation, Health and Wellness Facilities, and Personal Care Services (such as gyms and spas) Open at 50% Occupancy with Appointments Strongly Encouraged
- All Entertainment (such as casinos, theaters, and shopping malls) Open at 50% Occupancy
- Construction Activity May Return to Full Capacity with Continued Implementation of Protocols
Legislative Update In the past weeks, we have been dealing with two deadly diseases: racism and COVID-19. I hosted a Juneteenth roundtable to discuss the steps we need to take to combat racism and empower young Black Americans. Please watch the full conversation here. Additionally, my staff and I are working tirelessly to introduce thoughtful legislation, to address police brutality, racism, and to offset the impacts of COVID-19. Read more about my efforts below: Last might, I voted to pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act – though it is only one step, it is an important first step. The bill passed with bipartisan support out of the House and moves to the Senate. Additionally, I will continue to advocate for direct payments for workers and small businesses. This economic crisis is far from over, and Americans need direct relief now. In the next COVID-19 stimulus package, this will be one of my main priorities. Small Business Good news for small businesses: the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)’s opens in a new windowEconomic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program was reopened. EIDL loans can provide long-term, low interest assistance to businesses in need. Loans can be used to cover payroll and inventory, pay debt or fund other expenses to alleviate financial losses caused by the virus. In addition, The EIDL Advance Program provides up to $10,000 in emergency advance grants, which do not have to be repaid. To learn more and apply for assistance, go to opens in a new windowsba.gov/disaster. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act included $225 million for relief for Pennsylvania small businesses. Earlier this month, Governor Tom Wolf released details on a statewide grant program that includes $100 million for the Main Street Business Revitalization Program, $100 million for the Historically Disadvantaged Business Revitalization Program, and $25 million for the Loan Payment Deferment and Loss Reserve Program. Find out if you qualify and apply opens in a new windowhere. This relief aims to help businesses survive during and beyond this economic crisis. Upcoming Events On Monday, June 29, 2020, I will be discussing public health and more with PA Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine. We will be live-streaming the event on Facebook from 9:30 – 10:30 AM, watch the full conversation: opens in a new windowhttps://www.facebook.com/RepMadeleineDean As your member of Congress, I will continue to update you. Please reach out to my office if you are in need of additional resources or guidance. For more information, please visit my opens in a new windowwebpage and follow me on opens in a new windowTwitter and opens in a new windowFacebook for frequent updates.Sincerely, opens in a new windowClick here to subscribe to our newsletter |