Good Friday Coronavirus Update

Coronavirus Numbers

Worldwide

• There are over 1.3 million confirmed cases across the globe, and that number is sure to surpass 1.5 million in the coming days
• Nearly 300,000 of those cases have confirmed full recoveries

United States

• More than 350,000 confirmed cases here in the United States
• Nearly 20,000 confirmed cases of full recoveries

Alabama

• This week we surpassed 2,000 confirmed cases in Alabama
• The curve is now projected to reach our state on April 19^th,
  

Help is on the Way

There have been issues with the implementation of the CARES Act, and I want to give an update on some of the most pressing problems. However, if you have further questions please visit my website and check out the Frequently Asked Questions page. You can to that by clicking here.

Small Business Administration: the SBA Paycheck Protection Program portal is up and running now. There were issues with the portal last week, many of which were solved over the weekend. If you are running into issues with the PPP please do not hesitate to contact my office.

IRS: Economic impact payments will be sent out in the coming weeks, and those who have filed tax returns using direct deposit will be the first to receive the payment. One very important thing to note is that bad actors are going to try and scam people during this time - please read the IRS guidelines to avoid scams. 

Churches: all churches are eligible for the forgivable loans under the SBA Paycheck Protection Program. By checking the 501(c)(3) box in the top left corner of the SBA Application form, churches and religious organizations will eligible without prior recognition from the IRS.

Alabama Kindness

Every day throughout the Coronavirus pandemic there have been incredible acts of kindness, especially here in Alabama. Since today is Good Friday, it's only fitting to highlight some good news.

Cullman based manufacturer HomTex has revamped their manufacturing efforts to produce reusable and washable facemasks, expecting to make between 50,000-70,000 every week. You can read more about that story here.

Just down Highway 69 from Cullman in Good Hope, Bob Hoglan is serving free barbecue to truck drivers making their way through town, since getting fast food has become a challenge for many drivers.  

Folks in Marshall County are showing their great, and deep gratitude to the county's healthcare workers.

In Colbert County, a massive American flag has been draped over the county courthouse, displaying wonderful patriotism and reminding us all we will get through this together.

In Huntsville, there is a good Samaritan named Rodney Smith Jr., who is mowing lawns and delivering supplies to single moms, veterans, the elderly, and the disabled, free of charge.

And down in Opelika, the community gathers to "Park and Pray" for the medical workers and patients in the Opelika Hospital parking lot every morning at 7am.

These stories are a snapshot of the good things taking place around our state during this difficult time. Hopefully they bring a smile to your face like they did for me, and remind you that loving your neighbor and caring for your community are what makes Alabama such a special place to live. 

I pray you have a blessed Easter Sunday.  There is the possiblity of severe weather on Easter, so please stay weather aware.   I hope you have a great weekend.