Dear Friend,
This evening, state health officials announced nearly 800 new COVID-19 infections, which includes previously unreported cases from earlier this week. This means that we saw a new single-day record in New Hampshire on Wednesday, with 783 cases. There are now over 4,700 active cases of coronavirus in the state. Sadly, eight new deaths were also reported tonight – my thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the 552 Granite Staters who have died as a result of COVID-19.
Community transmission is increasing and cases are continuing to rise here in NH and across the country. While this is troubling information for all of us, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. An effective COVID-19 vaccine is on the horizon. We expect health care workers and some of the most vulnerable members of our communities to begin receiving vaccinations this year and a COVID-19 vaccine should be available to everyone by spring.
The next few months will be difficult, but we will get through this together. We need to accept that our holidays will be different this year and plan to celebrate virtually or with members of our own household. With an effective vaccine right around the corner, it’s more important than ever that we follow the guidance of our public health officials and take steps to stop the spread and save lives. For guidance from the CDC on how to keep yourself and those around you safe, click here.
|
I was back in Washington this week working to bring together a bipartisan group of members from the House and the Senate for a COVID relief package. This is critically important—case numbers are skyrocketing, and I want to make sure that all Granite Staters have access to the health care they need, that the vaccine receives adequate funding for equitable distribution in New Hampshire and across the country, and that we have an economic plan for when the vaccine is widely distributed to re-open our economy.
But we have to be patient—it’s so important that you wear your mask, keep your distance, and if you do get together with people outside of your household, make sure it’s outdoors. Thanks for everything that you’re doing, hang in there, and take care.
|
|
|
|
|
Speaking on the House floor this morning to call for immediate passage of a COVID relief bill. Watch here.
|
|
In New Hampshire and across the country, there's an urgent need for a bold response to the COVID-19 pandemic to address both the economic and health consequences of this crisis. It’s been over six months since we passed the HEROES Act in the House to provide comprehensive relief to Granite Staters and Americans across the country, and Senate Republicans still have failed to act. I’ve spoken to small business owners, struggling individuals, health care providers, first responders as well as local leaders and the message is clear: the time for action is now. I'm pleased to see a bipartisan framework that will provide relief for American families, and I hope this step will pave the way for passage of a comprehensive package this month.
|
For months, COVID-19 has disrupted our lives and separated us from one another as we have taken extraordinary, necessary steps to prevent the spread of the virus and save lives. However, social distance doesn’t need to mean social isolation — there are many ways to be there for our loved ones who might be struggling at this difficult time. Experts say we can start by paying attention, checking in regularly, and normalizing conversations about mental health. For more information on how to talk to your loved ones when you are concerned about their mental health, click here.
|
Dr. Anthony Fauci is one of our nation’s — and the world’s — most trusted and well-respected infectious disease experts, and I am thrilled that he will be joining the Biden-Harris Administration as chief medical adviser to President-elect Biden. Dr. Fauci has served as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) for over three and a half decades, throughout six presidential administrations. The incoming Biden-Harris Administration is building a stellar team of doctors and scientists who will be ready to hit the ground running on day one to address the COVID-19 public health crisis and restore trust and credibility to our nation's pandemic response.
|
|
|
|
|
Speaking at the Annual Meeting of the Council of Graduate Schools |
|
It’s an honor to receive the Council of Graduate Schools (CGS)’s 2020 Congressional Champion Award and it was great to join their 60th Annual Meeting. I’m a proud advocate for making graduate education more accessible — that’s why I introduced the Expanding Access to Graduate Education Act to open the doors of graduate education to more Americans and provide opportunities for them to get ahead. I will continue my efforts to ensure every American can access the education and job training they need to thrive in the 21st century economy.
|
We know that PFAS chemicals pose a serious threat to the health and wellbeing of communities in New Hampshire and across the country, and we must take action now to protect Americans from these dangerous forever substances. Today, I joined 58 of my colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to the House and Senate Appropriations Committees in support of robust funding in the Fiscal Year 2021 spending bill to protect communities from harmful PFAS chemicals.
|
This week marked the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Established in 1970, the EPA has been dedicated to protecting and preserving our public health, environment, and natural resources for half a century. As we look to the future of this vital agency, we must work to ensure the EPA upholds its original promise to the American people and preserves clean water, breathable air, and a hazard free environment for generations to come.
|
Due to the pandemic, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) is experiencing much higher package volumes nationwide, despite it being only the first week of December. Therefore, USPS encourages people to mail early this year for the holidays, and to order online as early as possible if they want inbound packages to arrive on time. For more information on USPS holiday shipping and deadlines, click here.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, access to affordable, quality health coverage is more important than ever. Enrollment in healthcare.gov is open NOW through December 15th. If you need coverage or want to make changes to your existing plan for 2021, visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596.
|
Medicare’s Open Enrollment period is also happening now. From now until December 7th, you can enroll in Medicare health and drug plans. Visit medicare.gov for more information. COVID-19 infections are rising rapidly in New Hampshire and across the country. While it’s important to remember that many people who get the virus never develop symptoms, you can protect yourself and your loved ones by understanding how the virus spreads, recognizing common symptoms and warning signs, and by taking the recommended precautions.
As always, the CDC and the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services are the best resources to turn to during the COVID-19 public health emergency. If you are sick, stay home and call your health care provider. If you live in NH and have questions about coronavirus, dial 211 or visit CDC.gov for more information.
To stay updated on my work in Congress and around the Granite State, as well as for important information and resources, like my page on Facebook and follow me on Twitter.
Have a fun and safe weekend, and don’t forget to wear a mask when you are in public!
Sincerely,
Annie
|
|
