Neighbors,

Since the last time I reached out with an update on the COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation in Massachusetts, a lot has changed.

The President signed into law the House's $8.3 billion emergency coronavirus spending package that will support state and local health agencies, vaccine and treatment development, and loans for small businesses to help supplement economic loss during this public health emergency.

However, as this pandemic continues to intensify, it's clear we need more action from the federal government - which is why I recently voted with my colleagues in the House to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

From free coronavirus testing for everyone, paid sick days that cover when a child's school is closed, paid medical leave for employees impacted by coronavirus, expanding unemployment benefits and food assistance for vulnerable children and families, and more - this legislation will provide initial help that families and small businesses around the country need during this emergency.

So much more is in the works - protecting families and small businesses from financial hardship, accelerating production of medical necessities that keep health care workers and patients safe, and stabilizing our economy during this unprecedented time. While we will continue to pursue legislation to help offset the burdens this pandemic is placing on working people, the smartest thing we can all do right now is playing our part to flatten the curve of the outbreak.

Here's how you can help:

Stay home as much as possible - whether that's working from home, keeping kids inside, or limiting trips to the grocery store, the more time we spend inside the lower the chance of spreading infection. "Social distancing" is a must.
Frequently wash your hands - or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available
Stay home if you are sick - even if you are healthy enough to recover from the virus, going in public will put countless others at risk of infection who may not be able to fight it off
Cough or sneeze into your sleeve, not hand - this is best practice every day, but it's especially important right now to make sure we're not putting others at risk
Avoid gatherings of more than 10 people - to drastically reduce how quickly the virus is spreading throughout the country

Here are some other helpful tips and resources from the CDC → [link removed]

This is an intense time for all of us, and I know shared anxiety, fears, and frustrations are starting to become more prevalent. But by taking every precautionary and preventive measure in our power, we can help limit how widespread this virus becomes.

In the coming weeks, we must (metaphorically) lean on each other and do our part to check in on those around us -- especially our seniors and vulnerable neighbors. Whether that's calling up friends we haven't seen in a while, taking up new hobbies indoors, or prioritizing self care - we must find outlets to keep us balanced.

I will be doing everything I can to help us tackle this crisis in Congress, and will keep you updated along the way.

But for now, please take care of yourself and those you love.

You are not alone,

Lori
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