Palm Beach County Commission District 4

From the desk of Vice Mayor Robert S. Weinroth

Message from Vice Mayor Weinroth

At today's Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting, I advocated and strongly expressed my support for the following actions: ·          open public and private beaches ·          request the Governor include Palm Beach County in the Phase 1 business openings Consequently, the BCC has approved an emergency meeting on Friday, May 8 at 9:30 a.m. requesting staff prepare a plan for beach openings in conjunction with emergency officials.    Additionally, the BCC requested a letter be sent to Governor DeSantis urging the inclusion of the Palm Beach in the Phase 1 business openings immediately.  It's clear that this COVID-19 is not going away and we must all work together as we lift certain restrictions while implementing the necessary guidelines.     It is also imperative that we all continue to maintain a strong and steady social distancing strategy in addition to hand-washing/disinfecting measures and wearing face coverings. We need to remember that this is a life-threatening virus and everyone’s cooperation and patience is critical.  *Reminders* PBC Emergency Order Number 5   reopened county parks, public and private golf courses, pools, marinas and boat ramps with limitations.  Park visitors  must practice social distancing , maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet) from others when possible.  Face coverings are strongly encouraged and should be worn whenever possible.  Parks and natural areas will be open sunrise to sunset for one-way walking, running and biking, equestrian riding, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and use of lakes while practicing social distancing. Basketball and volleyball courts are for individual practice only. Pickle ball and tennis courts are for singles play only. Playgrounds and dog parks remain closed until further notice. All Palm Beach County beaches remain closed. Boat ramps are open, with limitations on capacities, based on size of the boat. County-operated golf courses are open to the public , with significant modifications for single play.  Pool capacity is limited to ensure social distancing is maintained at all times. Locker room and shower facilities remain closed. Pool deck seating or lounging shall be restricted. See more details below on community pool openings.   The above is only an overview of the restrictions. More details at   PBC Emergency Order Number 5 .  In addition, a clarification on community pools opening s has been issued as follows:      The restrictions on pool use and the supervisory requirement are designed to protect the users of the facilities. The association responsible for the pool needs to accept responsibility to insure the pool and pool area are used responsibly under the conditions of the order.  The County is asking associations to comply with the intent of the order to insure residents do not place themselves and others in unsafe conditions by grouping in the pool and not practicing physical distancing on the pool deck.  If this can be accomplished without a full time presence in the immediate pool area, that is acceptable.  The County does not require a staff person or management to be in present to, or in close proximity to, any of the pool users.  Regarding pool capacity and limited hours, the capacity must be limited regardless of the pool hours. The County urges users to understand and respect these provisions in light of the potential health risks due to the pandemic.   Staff or management may delegate monitoring and compliance responsibilities to board members and community volunteers if they believe the pool can be operated safely and in compliance with the Order.  If these accommodations are unsuccessful, the pool should be closed until alternate monitoring arrangements can be put in place.

Governor’s Executive Order Number 20-112   Effective 5/4/20, Governor Ron DeSantis order implementing Phase 1 of Florida’s recovery become effective.     Under the Governor's Order, Palm Beach, Miami-Dade and Broward counties have been exempted from Sections 3 and 4, which deals with the re-opening of business.    However, non-essential elective medical procedures can be scheduled effective Monday May 4th 2020.   Frequently Asked Questions   about Governor’s Order Number 20-112.   Our office remains open and staff is available to assist you. Please contact us at 561-355-2204 or 561-276-1220. Also, please email me at RWeinroth@pbcgov.org with questions or if you need any assistance.  

Covid-19 Resource Guide

Below is a comprehensive resource guide to local, state and federal relief programs and general information in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.  We will continue to send this information to you with updates on a regular basis. Department of Health COVID-19 Dashboard Find the latest information about your specific zip code and cases of COVID-19. COVID-19 Dashboard . Statewide: 36,897 cases and 1,423 deaths Palm Beach County: 3,111 cases and 199 deaths Palm Beach County Emergency Information Hotline Open 7 days a week from 8am - 6pm 561-712-6400   Municipal Call Centers Boca Raton 561-982-4900 Delray Beach 561-243-7777 or contact your municipality Who do I contact if I’m experiencing symptoms? Contact your primary doctor first. If they are unable to provide you with a COVID-19 test, ask them for instruction on how to self-isolate at home. If you don't have a doctor, contact any urgent care center, or the county primary care clinics at:  WPB Main Office: 561-840-4500 WPB: 561-314-5300 Delray Beach: 561-274-3100 Jupiter: 561-746-6751 Lantana: 561-547-6800 Greenacres: 561-357-6000 Riviera Beach: 561-803-7300 Belle Glade: 561-983-9220 chd50feedback@flhealth.gov Click here to view all local and state executive orders

Palm Beach County

LATEST OPERATIONAL UPDATES *New* Testing Sites West Palm Beach Testing Site at the FITTEAM Ballpark This drive-thru testing at the West Palm Beach ballpark test site is by appointment only through the Health Care District’s Testing Hotline,  561-642-1000 . Callers can schedule appointments between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday for ALL sites at 561-642-1000. West Palm Beach (45 th Street) Testing Site This walk-up site at the West Palm Beach clinic located at 1150 45th Street and testing at this walk-up site is available by appointment on Mondays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Jupiter Testing Site This walk-up site is located at 411 W. Indiantown Rd. in Jupiter and testing is available by appointment on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to noon. Delray Beach Testing Site This walk-up site at 225 South Congress Avenue is available by appointment Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon. South County Civic Center-Cleveland Clinic Florida Testing Appointments can be made at 561-804-0250. Cleveland Clinic Florida has expanded criteria for individuals eligible for COVID-19 testing. Anyone over the age of 16 who has a fever or non-febrile respiratory illness (such as cough, shortness of breath, runny nose) or fever and gastrointestinal illness (such as diarrhea, vomiting), will be eligible for testing at our South Palm Beach County drive-through location. You must call to be screened and confirm an appointment time. Belle Glade Testing Site This drive-thru and walk-up testing site is located at  39200 Hooker Highway in Belle Glade . Individuals can be any age, and need not be symptomatic to be registered and tested, but they must call the Health Care District’s Testing Hotline,  561-642-1000 , to be scheduled in advance for testing. *New* Homebound Resident Testing Palm Beach County Fire Rescue is setting up appointments and testing homebound residents. The first phase of the plan involves testing those residents who are on the county’s Special Needs Registry. This is an ongoing process that is expected to take several days.

Additional Palm Beach County COVID-19 Testing Providers

* Updated * Food Assistance The Palm Beach County Food Bank (PBCFB) supports close to 200 partner agencies that provide food to our neighbors in need. To view the list of PBCFB's partner agencies, click here. Feeding South Florida Locate their calendar of countywide reoccurring distributions here . These sites provide groceries in a drive-thru style. The list is updated daily - dates, times and locations may change. Meals on Wheels : All seniors can access Meals on Wheels by calling the elderly helpline at 866-684-5885. United Way Food Assistance : click here .

*Reminder* Senior Assistance For assistance with food, food stamps, testing sites, and questions on Medicare or Medicaid call ADRC at 1-866-684-5885 Monday - Friday from 8am - 5pm.   Senior who are in immediate crisis or need someone to talk to after hours, or are in a food crisis are encouraged to call 211.   *Reminder* Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC Helpline)   Seniors 60+ are encouraged to call the ADRC Helpline 1(866) 684-5885 the gateway to services for seniors in need of Meals, Electric Bill Assistance, Respite for the Caregiver, Adult Day Care, In-home Services, Personal Care, Food Stamps (SNAP), Extra Help for prescription drugs, COVID 19 information and questions on Medicare or Medicaid. Specially trained counselors are available to help in English, Spanish or Creole Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.    Seniors registered through the Agency Helpline and served by the Volen Center and Palm Beach County Division of Senior Services are able to receive food on a scheduled basis in a "drop and go" fashion without leaving their cars.

Facial Covers Effective 4/13/20, Emergency Order 20-004 states all persons working in, patronizing, or otherwise physically present in grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, construction sites, public transit vehicles, vehicles for hire, and locations where social distancing measures are not possible should wear facial coverings as defined by the CDC. All other persons physically present in any public place in Palm Beach County are strongly urged to wear facial coverings as defined by the CDC.   A facial covering includes any covering which snugly covers the lower face, nose, and mouth, whether store bought or homemade mask, or clothing covering, including but not limited to, a scarf, bandana, handkerchief or other similar cloth covering and which is secured in place.  Examples of compliant homemade facial coverings may be found on the CDC website: CDC Face Coverings . Persons wearing facial coverings should review the CDC and Florida Department of Health guidelines regarding safely applying, removing, and cleaning facial coverings. Persons utilizing facial coverings should not procure surgical masks or N95 rated masks, as those are critical supplies for health care workers, law enforcement, fire-rescue, emergency management, or other persons engaged in life and safety activities.

*Reminder* Help for Businesses The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, in partnership with Palm Beach County, local chambers of commerce and municipalities, has launced  www.BizHelpPBC.com  to help companies struggling from the COVID-19 pandemic. This website will provide weekly news updates, resources, and will feature a 2 PM Town Hall call every Friday. Their website will also have registration information for the call, updated weekly. *Reminder* Free Telehealth Mental Health Services to Residents of Palm Beach County Comprehensive Mental Health Resources Florida Department of Health Resources in Multiple Languages

*Reminder* Community Services Department Rental & Utility Assistance Individuals and families experiencing economic hardship because of loss of employment, or sickness can apply for assistance through the Community Services Department. Residents who are eligible can access emergency rental and utility assistance online by visiting the website or by calling the following phone numbers:   ·        Online application for all services including rent and utilities:  www.pbcgov.com/OSCARSS ·        Phone number for rent: 561-904-7900 ·        Phone number for utilities: 561-355-4792 ·        Phone number for seniors EHEAP: 561-355-4746   Courts have temporarily suspended hearings on evictions, and a moratorium has been placed on utility shutoffs. Visit the website for more information about how to prepare and budget:  www.pbcgov.com/communityservices.

Libraries You can use the Palm Beach County Library system 24/7 from your computer, laptop or mobile device by visiting our website. Librarians are available to assist with unemployment applications and branches will continue to have the unemployment applications available in English, Spanish and Creole. http://www.pbclibrary.org/unemployment   Librarians are available to assist you with your research, and help using our online resources. Visit our website at www.pbclibrary.org and click on the Ask-A-Librarian icon or call 561-233-2600.

Housing & Economic Sustainability Palm Beach County Housing and business assistance programs can be found  here . Office of Equal Business Opportunity See this flyer for information on available funding for local small businesses in response to COVID-19.

Palm Beach County Victims Services The Palm Beach County Victim Services & Certified Rape Crisis Center helpline is available for information, options and support: 561-833-7273. Services are free, confidential and private. Department of Housing and Economic Sustainability Foreclosure Prevention Funding may be provided to assist with delinquent mortgage payments, property taxes and homeowner insurance to prevent foreclosure. Applicants can apply for up to $20,000.

Animal Care and Control Donations Needed for Local Pet Food Banks Several pet food banks in Palm Beach County are running desperately low on resources and donations. Items most needed: ·        Dry cat food (no open bags) ·        Dry dog food (no open bags) ·        Canned adult cat food and canned kitten food ·        Canned adult dog food ·        Cat litter Items can be ordered online and shipped directly to the food bank of your choice, or dropped off at their location. To donate or to receive help, reach out to one of the pet food banks:  http://discover.pbcgov.org/publicsafety/animalcare/Pages/Pet_Food.aspx PBC Animal Care & Control is asking to help empty the rest of the shelter after making history by clearing an entire kennel. Adoptable pets are still available in the other two kennels:   View adoptable pets online:  https://secure.co.palm-beach.fl.us/snap/home For more information about fostering,  click here.    Pet Food: Click on Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League website or email peggyspantry@peggyadams.org

Job Seekers and Employers CareerSource Palm Beach County for job seekers and employers, they offer assistance such as career counselors, business coaches, training and more. Call 561-340-1060, follow the directions, leave a message and someone will get back to you ASAP. CareerSource is providing paper unemployment applications you can mail in at their locations in West Palm Beach, Delray Beach and Belle Glade. Click link above for details.  CareerSource Florida CareerSource Florida has launched an integrated public and business outreach campaign, Help is Here, a comprehensive resource for employment and business services for impacted Floridians. For a list of the 24 local workforce development boards within the CareerSource Florida network and their contact information, please click here.

Solid Waste Authority Please refrain from tree trimming in April. While garbage, recycling and bulk waste remain on schedule, residents are asked to delay major yard trimming until May. Garbage bags should be tied securely for disposal so waste workers do not come in contact with any potentially virus-contaminated waste.   * * * * * * * * * * * *

Childcare for Emergency Response Personnel and Essential-Business Workers The Early Learning Coalition of Palm Beach County is open and connecting parents who are emergency response personnel and essential-business workers to open child care facilities and early learning centers. For more information, call 561-514-3300.   School District Feeding Sites The School District campuses will remain closed for 2019-2020 school year. Distance learning will continue through the last day of the school year in Palm Beach County Friday, May 29.   *Reminder*     For the list of School District and Community Feeding Sites visit:  PalmBeachSchools.org/FeedingSites   The next school-based, free-food distribution will be Thursday, May 7 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 51 locations throughout Palm Beach County. Parents or guardians who pick up meals on Thursday will be picking up a kit with three days’ worth of meals for each child. Twice-a-week meal distribution will return on Tuesday, May 12, and Thursday, May 14, and continue through the month of May. For the list of School District and Community Feeding Sites visit: PalmBeachSchools.org/FeedingSites Community Coordinated Sites ·           Click here for FLIPANY-Eastern locations distributing food from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., and three locations that are distributing food from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m. ·         Click here for FLIPANY-The Glades locations distributing food from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. ·         Click here for information about Boys and Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County locations distributing Grab ‘n Go bags and other food. ·         Click here for a summary of food sites – when you click this link, please scroll down for links to information about Food Sites/Pantry Information/Food Distribution information. To find the location nearest you, visit  https://summerbreakspot.freshfromflorida.com/ .

*Reminder* Discover the Palm Beaches Launches Help Desk for Essential Lodgers, Medical Personnel and First Responders Discover The Palm Beaches (DTPB) has opened a virtual help desk for essential lodgers to ask questions as they navigate hotel resources and special offers. Essential lodgers range from healthcare professionals and first responders to displaced residents and visitors. The help desk can be reached by email at sales@thepalmbeaches.com , or contacts and times are as follows: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. EDT Yvonne Williams, 561-233-3057 Joseph Garcia, 561-233-3039 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. EDT Caroline Meadows, 561-233-3034 Ashley Medeiros, 561-233-3056 For group reservations or venues, contact Mike Jackson at 561-233-3050 or mjackson@thepalmbeaches.com 

* New* The PBC Property Appraiser's Office Reopen Office Locations to the Public The Palm Beach County Property Appraiser's Office and five service centers opened to the public on Monday, May 4, 2020 at 8:30 a.m. All office locations will limit the number of customers allowed inside and adhere to social distancing protocols in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Designated wait areas and markers will help keep customers and staff, a safe distance apart. Our office strongly recommends the public wear face protective coverings when entering all office locations. Our office is in daily communication with our County partners and we are working with them to ensure a clean and safe work environment for all. The Property Appraiser Public Access (PAPA) website has always been known for its user friendly, online tools and resources. Our office encourages the public to conduct their business online rather than an in-person visit, by utilizing our services on the PAPA website: www.pbcgov.org/PAPA or contact us by phone at 561.355.3230, or email at PAO@pbcgov.org . *Reminder* Tax Collector Offices Now Open Belle Glade Service Center 2976 State Rd.15, Belle Glade, FL 33430            Central Palm Beach Service Center 4215 S. Military Trail, Greenacres, FL 33463 Delray Beach Service Center 501 South Congress Avenue, Delray Beach, FL 33445 Northeast County Courthouse Service Center 3188 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410          Royal Palm Beach Service Center 200 Civic Center Way, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411 The Tax Collector’s Office located at 301 N. Olive Avenue in West Palm Beach remains closed until further notice. ·       Clients must wear a face mask or cloth face covering at all times and follow social distancing protocols. ·       Only clients who cannot complete their transaction online or by mail will be admitted for service. For more information, call the Tax Collector’s Office at 561-355-2264. Updates will be posted at https://www.pbctax.com/ . Alcoholics Anonymous To find an A.A. meeting near you contact the A.A. resources below for a meeting list in that location and surrounding areas. For information about online meetings/online groups: www.aainpalmbeach.org  Phone: (561) 276-4581 Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc .   COVID19  Resource Guide to help answer questions regarding education, rent, mortgage, credit cards, etc. Call 211 f or mental health and community services such as food assistance, medical clinics, foreclosure prevention, parenting info on developmental concerns (Help Me Grow), special needs and senior services or click here .   For more information, visit the county's COVID-19 website

*Updated* Volunteer Opportunities & Donation Needs

Boca Helping Hands is seeking food donations to continue feeding those in need. See flyer for more information. Feeding Palm Beach County Warehouse shifts available Tuesday through Saturday 8:30am to 11:30am & 1:30pm to 4:30pm Boynton Beach - Feeding Palm Beach County 4925 Park Ridge Blvd Boynton Beach, FL 33426 561-331-5441 To learn more, email volunteers@feedingsouthflorida.org  or head to  to their website . Click here for information on their weekly City of Delray Beach Food Distribution . Trinity Delray Church Email their Executive Director at  jwagner@trinitydelray.org for volunteer information United Way Palm Beach County Jewish Family Services Hospitality Helping Hands City of WPB COVID-19 Response Volunteer Unit Volunteer Florida

Landscape & Lawn Watering Restrictions Issued

The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) issued an order on water conservation measures with strict guidelines to property owners to follow irrigation schedules that conserve water amid drier than average conditions. The District has  lawn watering restrictions all year . Amid recent dry conditions, property owners should take additional measures to conserve water including: Water lawns only two days per week between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. Apply no more than 3/4-inch to 1 inch of water per week on their lawns and landscapes and only as needed to supplement rainfall.

State Programs

*Reminder* Unemployment Support Reemployment Assistance benefits, formerly known as unemployment compensation, can be filed by accessing CONNECT online via http://www.floridajobs.org/ in the Reemployment Assistance Service Center or call 1-800-681-8102. Pandemic Unemployment Assistance or PUA information is available by clicking on the graphic above. Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) Reemployment Assistance FAQS . Latest Updates from DEO DEO extended Emergency Order 20-011 waiving certain state requirements for Reemployment Assistance. The online work registration and work search requirements of section 443.091, F.S. will continue to be suspended consistent with the "emergency flexibility" guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Labor. These actions will enable DEO to move quickly to expedite Reemployment Assistance payments as Floridians go back to work. These suspensions shall expire on May 9, 2020. Daily updates on the efforts made to address the challenges to Florida’s Reemployment Assistance program can be found at the State Reemployment Assistance Claims Dashboard. This will be updated daily to reflect the total number of Reemployment Assistance Claims submitted, verified, processed, and paid. Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 20-104 waiving the requirement for Floridians to claim their weeks for Reemployment Assistance. DEO announced more than 1,000 small businesses have been awarded more than $49 million from the Florida Small Emergency Bridge Loan. Link to the downloadable form to apply for RE-Employment (unemployment) Temporary Layoff Program: This is part of the Reemployment Assistance program. Individuals on a “temporary layoff,” which means a job separation due to lack of work which does not exceed 8 consecutive weeks and which has a fixed or approximate return-to-work date, may be eligible if they were temporarily laid off due to the virus and remain available to work. Click here for more information.

*New* SBA Disaster Loan Virtual Office The U.S. Small Business Administration South Florida District Office will host virtual office hours to answer questions about the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program. Limited to 250 callers at one time. Participants may call at any time and are welcome to enter and exit at will. Callers will be muted upon entry and will be taken in the order they are received. The virtual office hours are 11:00 A.M to 1:00 P.M. and 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Monday through Friday.   Skype : https://meet.lync.com/sba123/jfhein/DRJCSWGT [lnks.gd]   Phone: (202) 765-1264; Conference ID - 143765659   *Reminder* Unemployment will be retroactive Department of Management Services Jonathan Satter announced Floridians making unemployment claims will receive them retroactively to the day of their job loss, if that date was later than March 9. A total of 505,000 Floridians filed for unemployment last week, with 1.16 million having successfully registered since the beginning of the coronavirus crisis. Florida has a workforce of an estimated 10.335 million people.   As a reminder, free, printed paper applications in 3 languages are available at certain Palm Beach County Library System locations. FedEX Office Centers also have the applications. Please do not return completed paper applications to library locations. They can be dropped off at these FedEx Office Centers  in Palm Beach County. FedEx will send applications to Tallahassee at no charge.   Click here to learn more.

*Reminder* Department of Children and Families and SNAP Benefits   Governor Ron DeSantis and the Department of Children and Families announced extended support to Floridians participating in SNAP and TANF. Read more here.

Department of Elder Affairs   Music and Robotic Pet Therapy for People Living with Dementia   DOEA has developed an online form to allow individuals or their caregivers to request MP3 Players or a therapeutic robotic cat or dog to combat social isolation and ensure seniors remain engaged during the practice of social distancing to stop the spread of COVID-19. Go to http://www.elderaffairs.org/doea/livable_communities.php to access the form.

Health Care Support   Abuse Hotline (24/7). The Florida Abuse Hotline accepts reports of known or suspected child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and reports of known or suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult. Report online or by calling 1-800-962-2873 Call Center (24/7). COVID-19 hotline: 866-779-6121 email: COVID-19@flhealth.gov   Early Prescription Refills. The Governor and the Insurance Commissioner have required all health insurers and HMOs that are licensed in Florida to authorize up to a 30 day supply of most prescription drugs and to waive time restrictions on prescription drug refills. Click here for more information.   Suicide Prevention. If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, please call 800-273-8255 right away. More crisis support information is also available online .

Businesses and Workers Support   Business Damage Assessment Survey. The Business Damage Assessment Survey is activated to assess the impact of COVID-19 on Florida’s local business operations. The survey, managed by DEO, will evaluate businesses affected by COVID-19 and the impacts the virus has had on the local economy so actions to implement appropriate relief programs can begin. The Business Damage Assessment Survey can be taken online .   Division of Corporations Annual Reports Filing Extension. The annual report filing deadline for Florida business entities has been suspended until June 30, 2020 per Department of State Emergency Order 2020-01 . This includes any corporation, limited liability company, limited partnership or limited liability limited partnership entities required to file an annual report with the Florida Division of Corporations. For more information, please visit the Division of Corporations website .   Short-Time Compensation Plans. Employers can work with DEO to enter into short-time compensation plans. Under such plans, employers reduce hours for a group of employees (no more than 40% reduction) instead of resorting to temporary layoffs. Partial benefits are paid to employees. Click here for more information.

Tax Support   State Tax-Related Support. Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) established a dedicated team to address tax-related issues pertaining to COVID-19 and created an email address, COVID19TAXHELP@floridarevenue.com , where taxpayers can send questions and concerns. The Department encourages all taxpayers to use e-services applications to file and pay taxes or contact the call center at 850-488-6800.   State Property Taxes. Property tax is normally due by March 31 in the year following the year the taxes are assessed. The Department waived the due date so that payments remitted by April 15, 2020, for the 2019 tax year will be considered timely paid. Property taxpayers should contact their county property appraisers and tax collectors for information.

Veteran Support   Veteran Employment Assistance. Veterans Florida provides resume assistance and job placement for veterans and spouses seeking employment in Florida. Typically, the jobs are full-time and permanent; however, due to COVID-19, Veterans Florida is working with employers who are retooling and seeking temporary help at this time, as well. Click here for more information.   Veteran Legal Help Line. 1-866-486-6161 Veteran Support Line. 1-844-693-5838

Education Support  *Reminder* Schools in the State of Florida are closed through the remainder of the school year and distance learning will continue. The School District of Palm Beach County will hold virtual graduations for its seniors.   The Florida Department of Education (DOE) established a resource website for educators, parents, and students to utilize free resources to help students with distance learning. Click here for more information . In addition, DOE has a webpage dedicated to information and resources related to COVID-19.   Virtual and Telephonic Mental Health Counseling Services . Click here for more information .   Child Support Program. The Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) provides online resources to assist families in handling their child support case without visiting a local Child Support Office. (850) 488-5437.

Attorney General   Price Gouging. The Attorney General’s NO SCAM Price Gouging App can be downloaded free of charge through Apple and Android stores by searching NO SCAM. A price gouging hotline is available toll-free at: 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) . Click here for more information.   Scam Alert . Anyone who suspects a scam or believes a product is being falsely marketed as protection against the virus should contact the Attorney General’s Office at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM (866-966-7226) or by visiting MyFloridaLegal.com

Federal Programs

*UPDATED* Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Guarantee (Federal). The original funding for the PPP was quickly exhausted. Phase 3.5 of emergency stimulus funding will allow for small business loans to restart the process as of today with $320 billion in new funds. Read more here . Employee Paid Leave Rights. Effective April 1, 2020, the federal Families First Coronavirus Response Act requires private employers with 500 employees or less to provide employees with paid sick leave or expanded family and medical leave for specified reasons related to COVID-19. For more information on relief, please click here . Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program (Federal). This pilot program allows SBA Express Lenders authority to deliver expedited SBA guaranteed financing on an emergency basis for disaster-related purposes to eligible small businesses, while the small businesses apply for and await long-term financing. Click here for more information. Eligibility Criteria: Eligible recipients may qualify for a loan up to $10 million determined by 8 weeks of prior average payroll plus an additional 25% of that amount. Loan payments will be deferred for six months. If you maintain your workforce, SBA will forgive the portion of the loan proceeds that are used to cover the first 8 weeks of payroll and certain other expense following loan origination. Click here to learn more. The application and further information is also available at this link .   Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loan or Loan Advance.  The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing. If you have questions about this or other federal SBA programs please contact the Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 or (TTY: 1-800-877-8339)  DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov . More information can be found at   SBA Disaster Loan Assistance.

Unemployment Insurance   More laid-off and furloughed workers will be eligible for Unemployment Insurance and will see an additional $600 per week to match the average paycheck for up to 4 months of benefits. For a list of unemployment offices by state please click here . Additional Resources     Committee on Ways and Means fact sheet &FAQ on unemployment compensation, click here .

Direct Payments to Individuals and Their Families   Individuals making up to $75,000 ($150,000 for married workers) will receive payments of $1,200 with an additional $500 payment per minor child. The payments decrease ratably and stop altogether for single workers making more than $99,000 ($198,000 for married workers and $218,000 for a family of four).   These payments will be issued by the IRS via direct deposit and will be based on 2019 or 2018 tax return or 2019 Social Security statement.   If someone has not filed a tax return in 2018 or 2019 and does not receive Social Security benefits, the IRS recommends filing a 2018 return to receive payment. If the IRS does not have the taxpayer’s bank account information, the taxpayer should look for a letter from the IRS detailing how to receive their payment.   If you receive Social Security, retirement or other social safety net benefits, you may still qualify for direct payments. For more information from the IRS click here .   *Reminder* I f you have not received your coronavirus relief money via direct deposit from the federal government, they request you visit the IRS website to provide your current banking information.   Additionally, if you did not file a tax return in 2018 or 2019 and/or don't receive social security or disability benefits, they have added a new tool on the IRS website to enter that information.   To check the status of your money, click here .

Food Assistance   Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), more commonly known as food stamps, ensures that Americans receive the food they need, especially if they are newly unemployed. Congress has invested in SNAP in the last three bills to help Americans put food on the table during this crisis. In order to apply for SNAP, contact your state SNAP office or the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food & Nutrition Services regional offices near you.   SNAP State Directory of Resource   FNS Regional Offices, click here .   The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women Infants and Children (WIC) provides access to nutritious foods to low-income pregnant women or mothers. To see if you are eligible for WIC benefits click here .   To learn more about how to apply for WIC click here .

Homeowners and Renters Protection   Mortgage Forbearance: Homeowners with FHA, USDA, VA, or Section 184 or 184A mortgages (for members of federally-recognized tribes) and those with mortgages backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac have the right to request forbearance on their payments for up to 6 months, with a possible extension for another 6 months without fees, penalties, or extra interest. Homeowners should contact their mortgage servicing company directly.   Eviction Protections: Renters residing in public or assisted housing, or in a home or apartment whose owner has a federally-backed mortgage, and who are unable to pay their rent, are protected from eviction for 4 months. Property owners are also prohibited from issuing a 30-day notice to a tenant to vacate a property until after the 4-month moratorium ends. This protection covers properties that receive federal subsidies such as public housing, Section 8 assistance, USDA rural housing programs, and federally-issued or guaranteed mortgages. Renters whose landlord is not abiding by the moratorium should contact the relevant federal agency that administers their housing program or their local Legal Aid office.

Energy Assistance for Low Income Families   This legislative package includes $900 million to help low income Americans and their families heat and cool their homes. To learn more about the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in your state, click here .

Emergency Paid Leave   Many workers in America currently have no paid leave and are being forced to choose between their paycheck, their health, and the health of the people around them.   The emergency paid leave provisions passed by Congress and signed into law by the President are a critical step toward protecting families’ financial security and mitigating the spread of the coronavirus. Below is information on eligibility for emergency paid sick leave and paid family leave.   Committee on Education and Labor Fact Sheet: Who is Eligible for Leave link .

Small Businesses Forgivable Loans and Grants   Congress secured $350 billion in forgivable loans and $10 billion in grants to small businesses, tribal business concerns, and certain nonprofits.   Loans through a new SBA 7(a) Paycheck Protection Program can be forgiven when used for payroll costs (including paid leave, health care, and other costs) to retain workers, and other expenses such as rent, mortgage interest, and utilities. Independent contractors, sole-proprietors, and other self-employed persons are eligible for these loans.   Small businesses can also apply for up to $10,000 in grants to retain workers and pay for debt obligations.   Small businesses, tribal business concerns, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(19) veterans organizations in your district should contact their lender and the Small Business Administration office directly.   For a list of SBA offices by state with contact information please click here . Paid Sick and Family Leave Tax Credit   Employers who provide required leave to their employees and who employ less than 500 employees are eligible for a tax credit to offset the costs of such leave. This tax relief will be provided against quarterly payroll taxes (those paid in connection the Form 941). For additional guidance, please refer to the IRS’s website

Medium-Sized Businesses   Included in the bill is a fund administered by Secretary Mnuchin designed to provide low-interest bank financing to medium-sized businesses and nonprofits with 500 to 10,000 employees. As of now, we do not have information about the protocols for the administration of this fund. As soon as we have this information we will provide it to you.

Student Loan Relief for Borrowers   If you have student loan debt, Congress secured several options outlined below for borrowers that help provide relief through September 30, 2020. During this period, a borrower will be able to:   • Pause payments for federal student loan borrowers who have Direct Loans and Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL), which means these borrowers will not be required to make any  payments toward outstanding interest or principal balance.   • Suspend interest accrual for such loans so that these balances don’t accrue.   • Avoid forced collections such as garnishment of wages, tax refunds, & Social Security benefits.   • Halt negative credit reporting.   • Ensure a borrower continues to receive credit toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness, Income-Driven Repayment forgiveness, and loan rehabilitation.   For additional guidance on how to apply and learn about next steps as this critical relief becomes available, please refer to the U.S. Department of Education website .

School Meals   As more schools close due to coronavirus, Congress has provided emergency funding for Child Nutrition Programs to ensure students can still receive their free or reduced-price school meals during this time. Click here to learn more about what your state is doing during this time.

Veterans   Congress provided robust emergency funding to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has the equipment, tests, and support services – including setting up temporary care sites, mobile treatment centers and increasing telehealth visits to allow more veterans to get care at home – necessary to provide veterans with the additional care they need. For further guidance as this funding and initiatives are implemented, please refer to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website .   Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255