Dear Friend,
This week, the U.S. surpassed the grim milestone of 5 million confirmed cases of COVID-19, only 17 days after reaching 4 million. While we have been able to control the spread here in the Granite State, states across the country are seeing record-setting surges in cases of coronavirus. At the same time, other nations have successfully flattened the curve and are beginning to move forward.
Almost six months into the pandemic, many Americans are waiting up to ten days – sometimes even longer – for COVID-19 test results. My husband Brad and I recently got tested, and it took nearly two weeks to get our results. The Trump Administration still has not put forward a comprehensive national strategy to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, and we continue to face many of the same challenges with testing we were facing back in March. We cannot allow history to repeat itself – I have urged the Administration to put forth a comprehensive plan for when a COVID-19 vaccine is available to ensure we can mass produce and administer it, as well as distribute it equitably.
Yesterday, I received another update on efforts to develop a COVID-19 vaccine – Operation Warp Speed. We continue to hear promising results from clinical trials, and I am optimistic about our progress. A safe, effective vaccine that enjoys the full confidence of the American public is our best defense against the COVID-19 pandemic. I hope to see a comprehensive vaccine plan from the Administration in the near future.
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Granite Staters depend on the US Postal Service for their medications, voting, paychecks, and so many other essential needs. USPS is crucial to our everyday lives and our democracy, and we must do everything we can to protect it. This week, I joined my colleagues in calling on Postmaster General DeJoy to ensure that USPS – one of our nation’s most trusted federal agencies – maintains its integrity and commitment to the American people. You can read our full letter here.
I also joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Senator Maggie Hassan, and Congressman Chris Pappas in writing a letter to Postmaster General DeJoy regarding recent changes to USPS policies that have led to significant delays in mail deliveries in New Hampshire. Read our letter here.
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On Wednesday, I held a virtual roundtable with Mayors and City Managers to discuss the impact of COVID-19 and the ongoing needs of New Hampshire communities. I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with city leaders to discuss the challenges they are facing at this unprecedented time. Ensuring our cities can continue to deliver important services to residents and function effectively is key to our state’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. This spring, I was proud to support the HEROES Act, comprehensive legislation that would provide billions in funding to local governments. I will continue working to ensure New Hampshire communities have the funding and resources they need to weather this crisis.
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I held a virtual roundtable on Wednesday with child care and early education providers as well as state officials from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to discuss the impact of COVID-19. Child care is essential for millions of American families, and the COVID-19 pandemic has put immense pressure on our nation’s child care providers, putting many at risk of closing. I was proud to support comprehensive legislation to assist caregivers and child care providers in offering safe environments for children during this ongoing health emergency, and I will continue my efforts to support working parents and help families safely navigate their work and family life.
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Today, I hosted a virtual roundtable discussion with leadership from the NH Bankers Association, Gibson’s Bookstore, Lawson Group, Claremont Savings Bank, Ink Factory and Vegataball, and Governor Sununu’s Office for Emergency Relief and Recovery (GOFERR), to hear about their experiences with the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and state grant programs funded under the CARES Act. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant challenges for Granite State businesses, forcing some to close or lay off workers, and leaving many uncertain about the future and how to make it through this crisis. Over the last few months, I’ve worked to make it easier for struggling businesses to access the funding and resources they need to keep employees on payroll and stay afloat. I will share the valuable input and stories I heard today with my colleagues as we continue our efforts to help businesses endure these challenging times. By working together, we can safely restore our economy and protect New Hampshire’s thriving business community.
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Yesterday, I had a virtual discussion with New Hampshire college and university presidents to talk about campus testing strategies for COVID-19 and plans for reopening institutions for the upcoming fall semester. I’m grateful for the opportunity to hear from leaders at our state’s higher education institutions about the steps they are taking to protect students, faculty, and staff as they work to provide students with the best education possible in these difficult circumstances. While Congress has provided COVID-19 relief funding for educational institutions, we must do more. I look forward to sharing the valuable insights I heard in this discussion with my colleagues as we continue working to support schools and our nation’s academic sector during this public health emergency.
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My discussion with higher education leaders
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I spoke today with our state’s K-12 teachers unions, school administrators, principals and special education administrators and school board officials about the needs of the K-12 community from current and future federal legislative packages. I also received their feedback on fall instruction plans and strategies of school districts in the state.
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On Wednesday, I hosted a virtual constituent coffee meeting to hear from Granite Staters my office has assisted during the COVID-19 crisis. This pandemic has presented unique challenges and left many people feeling more vulnerable than ever, so it was great to hear firsthand about the positive impact my office has had on people’s lives the past few months. From helping to secure passports for students so they can continue with their education abroad, to getting children the monetary benefits they deserve, I am so proud of my staff for the work they do every day. People in my district who need assistance should not hesitate to reach out for support – we are here to help in any way we can. You can contact my Concord office at 603-226-1002 or visit my website to request assistance.
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The design of the Christa McAuliffe coin. Read here.
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I’m thrilled to see the design of the Christa McAuliffe coin reaching its final stages. Christa touched the lives of so many in New Hampshire and she continues to inspire students nationwide. I was proud to help lead efforts in Congress to honor Christa by creating this coin to keep her pioneering spirit alive for generations to come.
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I joined Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Senator Maggie Hassan and Representative Chris Pappas in announcing over $1 million in federal funding to UNH, Keene State and Plymouth State to provide crucial support and lessen the barriers that many low-income, first-generation, and disabled students face. This funding will help to ensure that these students are able to continue their education and have the resources they deserve.
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The NH delegation and I also announced more than $39.5 million in federal funding to support affordable housing for Granite Staters. No one should have to worry about losing their home and not having a safe place to live, especially during a pandemic, and this money will improve access to affordable housing in our state and help those who have been impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.
As a result of efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, folks in the Granite State and nationwide are depending on a reliable internet connection more than ever before. I have long advocated for increased investments in broadband, and I’m glad $16 million in CARES Act funding has been allocated to expand access to fiber internet service for rural homes, businesses and public buildings in NH. image widget
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As the state begins the process of closing down fixed COVID-19 testing sites, many new testing locations will be opening at hospitals, pharmacies and urgent care centers. COVID-19 tests are available at many locations throughout the Granite State – click here for a list.
It is important to remember that even if you feel fine and aren’t showing any symptoms, you still could have COVID-19 and infect others, so it is critical to wear a mask to help prevent the spread of the virus. In addition, keep a safe distance from others at public gatherings, wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, and avoid crowds. Click here for information about how to properly use cloth face coverings to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
As always, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (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 throughout the week on my work in Congress and around the Granite State, as well as 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
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