COVID-19 Update from Republican Party of Virginia
Republican Party of Virginia Chairman Jack Wilson’s Monday release of the following information….
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind of news and confusion with much going on in our Commonwealth, our Nation, and our World.
First, I’d like to start with a message of hope. I know that all Virginians are concerned about their health, the health of their loved ones, and their communities. We all have real concerns about the economy of the nation and about how our own personal finances will be impacted. I am confident that we will work through this together and that as Commonwealth and a Country we will come out strong in the end.
President Trump, Vice-President Pence, and the entire administration are leveraging the full strength of the federal government to fight this pandemic. Throughout our history, the United States has emerged victorious in the face of many serious challenges. George Washington didn’t give up at Valley Forge and we’re not going to give up now! We are the most resilient country on the face of the Earth and we’re going to prove that once again this year.
Here is some important information I want to pass along:
- On March 19, 2020, the President signed Coronavirus Relief Bill. “This bill responds to the coronavirus outbreak by providing paid sick leave and free coronavirus testing, expanding food assistance and unemployment benefits, and requiring employers to provide additional protections for health care workers.” (Congress.gov, Accessed 03/19/20)
- The Bill also requires the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to issue an Emergency Temporary Standard to implement a more comprehensive response to infectious disease exposure. “In addition, the bill requires the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to issue an emergency temporary standard that requires certain employers to develop and implement a comprehensive infectious disease exposure control plan to protect health care workers.” (Congress.gov, Accessed 03/19/20)
- $60 Million will go to the Department of Veterans Affairs for Testing Veterans, $64 Million to The Indian Health Service for Testing Members of Native American Tribes. “An additional $60 million will go to the Department of Veterans Affairs for testing veterans, $64 million to the Indian Health Service for testing members of Native American tribes and $1 billion to the National Disaster Medical System for reimbursing testing costs for those without health insurance.” (NPR, 3/19/20)
- The Bill also includes a Temporary 6.2% Increase in Federal Payments to Medicaid for States. “Additionally, it includes a temporary 6.2% increase in federal payments to Medicaid for states.” (NPR, 3/19/20)
I am confident that our President’s response and the legislation about will bring us through this crisis successfully. But, we still have our part to do.
IT IS CRUCIAL CONTINUE TO FOLLOWING THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CDC:
- Washing your hands often;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands;
- Using hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol;
- Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care;
- Avoid groups of 10 or more and close contact with those who may be ill or exposed to the virus;
- Wearing a mask ONLY if you are sick;
- Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces daily.
I know that you have many questions and concerns about the effect this pandemic will have on our party process–in particular, our conventions and other nominating processes. I will be having a conference call this evening with the State Central Committee to discuss these issues and how we plan to respond and make adjustments. Our goal will be to move forward with electing candidates, delegates, and Party officials in the best legal, transparent and practical way we can.
I promise to update all of you on the latest news and plans over the next few days. So, please check your e-mail for a follow-up.
