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Dear Alaskans,
Our state and nation continue dealing with the global COVID-19 pandemic. New developments occur every day, and these newsletters are an important way for me to connect with constituents and update them on the work the federal government is doing to fight this virus. The recently passed and enacted CARES Act has continued its rollout and began providing support for Alaska’s small businesses and employees. The Paycheck Protection Program is a critical lifeline for our small businesses. This is a new program, and understandably, business owners may have many questions. The U.S. Department of the Treasury has created a very helpful FAQ page to answer questions you may have about Paycheck Protection Program eligibility, the application process, and much more. Click here to access the FAQ page.
Important Information for Americans Abroad
If you are (or you know) a U.S. citizen abroad who needs assistance returning to the U.S., the U.S. Department of State urges you (or them) to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov. STEP is an essential tool to help citizens receive travel alerts and important information during a crisis.
Consular offices and embassies continue repatriating Americans who have been stranded by the COVID-19 pandemic. The availability of seats aboard U.S.- bound flights may be in short supply. Travelers who have decided to remain abroad are asked by the Department of State to cancel their previously scheduled trip so that seat may be given to another U.S.-bound passenger.
To enroll your trip in STEP, click here.
If you are an American citizen abroad and have more questions, click here.
New Information for Economic Impact Payments
Are you not typically required to submit a tax return? The IRS has just launched the non-filer tool specifically for people who are generally not required to file a tax return. This tool allows eligible Americans to input their banking information to receive their economic impact payment of up to $1200 per individual created by the CARES Act. As a reminder, if you filed a 2018 or 2019 tax return, you do NOT need to submit your information. Click here to check your eligibility and submit your banking information
$16 Million in COVID-19 Relief Coming to Alaska
Senator Lisa Murkowski, Senator Dan Sullivan, and I recently announced that nearly $16 million in federal COVID-19 relief created by the CARES Act is on its way DIRECTLY to Alaska’s Community Health Centers. Our community health centers are on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19. I am deeply grateful to health care professionals across our state. From our urban areas to our Native communities, these remarkable Alaskans are risking their own well-being to keep our families safe, and they continue to be in my prayers. Click here to see the full list of grant recipients.
Protecting Alaska’s Fisheries
Alaska’s fishing industry is a critical economic driver for our state. Unsurprisingly, the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted fisheries across our country. I sent a bipartisan letter with over 35 House colleagues to the U.S. Department of Commerce, urging immediate distribution of the assistance secured by Congress in the CARES Act to fishery participants, including tribal, subsistence, commercial, and charter fishery participants. Fishing communities are facing extreme hardship, and I will continue doing all I can to support them and the fishermen who depend on these good jobs. Click here to read our full letter.
Stabilizing Global Oil Markets
A global health crisis is no time to be manipulating oil markets, but the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is doing just that. I recently joined a letter with Republican Whip Steve Scalise and other House colleagues to Mohammad bin Salman, Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, urging him to stop manipulating our markets, and to do his part to ensure global stability. Our nation’s oil workers – including those who work on our North Slope – pay the price when the oil market is volatile. Saudi Arabia must play by the rules so that all nations can benefit from a balanced oil market. Click here to read our full letter.
Don Young
Congressman for All Alaska
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