Note from Erika
With the school year on the horizon, it is important that we make sure our students are prepared, not only with school supplies, but with protection against COVID-19. If you have not already done so, and if your student is eligible, please get them vaccinated as soon as possible. Also, don’t forget to make sure they have a well-fitting mask and practice good handwashing routines. If you have questions or concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine or any others for your child or children, always consult your child’s pediatrician.
Please be aware that while we are re-engaging in-person office operations, we also continue to serve Michigan’s 6th Senate District remotely. If you have any questions or concerns, we can be reached by email at SenEGeiss@senate.michigan.gov and by voicemail at (517) 373-7800.
Erika Geiss
State Senator
6th District
In This Edition
- Wayne County Issues Mask Mandate for Daycares and K-12
- School Bus Safety
- FDA Approves First COVID-19 Vaccine
- Eviction Moratorium Update
- Unemployment Assistance Update
- Community Update
WAYNE COUNTY ISSUES MASK MANDATE FOR DAYCARES AND K-12
Wayne County Public Health Department has issued a mask mandate for all students, staff, guests, and volunteers at all schools and daycares in the county. As the COVID-19 Delta variant continues to be a growing concern, this is one tool in a broader toolbelt that will help to slow its spread.
Additionally, everyone should continue to wash their hands regularly and practice social distancing, when possible. I also urge that everyone who can get vaccinated, to please do so.
I applaud the Wayne County Public Health Department for their leadership. This action will help keep students and staff safe during this quickly approaching school year. You can read details of the order here.
>> Click here for tips on how you can find the best masks for your children this school year.
Be sure to avoid counterfeits when looking for masks as well. This article can help you determine whether or not your mask is effective in combating the COVID-19 virus.
If your student is eligible, it’s a good idea to set up an appointment to get the vaccine. In addition to local pharmacies, both Beaumont Teen Health Centers and the Western Wayne Family Health Centers are offering the vaccine for those ages 12 and up.
SCHOOL BUS SAFETY
The start of school means the return of big yellow school buses transporting students to and from school buildings across our area, especially as most districts are returning to in-person instruction.
With last year being virtual (or hybrid) for many districts, it has been awhile since motorists have had to share the road during the morning rush and afternoon with school buses. Here’s a reminder of the traffic rules for sharing the road with a school bus on different types of roadways common in Michigan:
FDA APPROVES FIRST COVID-19 VACCINE
On August 23rd, the FDA gave the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine its full approval, meaning that we can be confident that this vaccine meets the high standards of safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality the FDA requires for an approved product.
Now that approval has been secured, there is no better time to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Visit the Wayne County website for more information and where to get vaccinated, or call the state’s COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136 and press 1.
EVICTION MORATORIUM UPDATE
On August 26th, the Supreme Court struck down the Biden Administration’s order extending the eviction moratorium to October 3rd. This decision comes as a disappointment as millions of American families are still reeling from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Unfortunately, this means evictions will now be permitted to resume, despite rising COVID-19 case numbers and federal unemployment benefits ending September 4th.
The programs listed below are currently in place to help tenants and families retain their homes and put food on the table while we continue to navigate this difficult, unprecedented time:
- CERA Rental Assistance – Helps with up to 12 months of rent back pay and 3 months of future rent, as well as assistance with utilities.
- MI Bridges – Food and cash assistance.
- United Way of Southeastern Michigan – Dial 2-1-1 and an operator will be able to provide help provide information on available resources, pertinent to your situation.
UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE UPDATE
Federal benefits that expanded and extended unemployment benefits at the beginning of the pandemic will expire on September 4th. The week ending September 4th is the last payable week of benefits from PUA, PEUC, PUC, and MEUC.
Eligible weeks prior to September 4th will continue to be processed and paid out. Click here for more information regarding the expiration of federal programs.
If you or someone you know who lives in Senate District 6 is having trouble receiving their Unemployment Insurance (UI) or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA), please fill out this unemployment assistance form and our office will reach out to assist you with your issue as soon as possible.
You can also visit the Michigan LEO FAQ page for answers to questions you may have regarding eligibility for unemployment or for issues you may have with your current claim.
>> Click here to schedule an in-person appointment at a local UIA office.
COMMUNITY UPDATE
Congratulations to the Little League World Series Champions, Taylor North!
On Sunday, Taylor North faced off with Ohio at the Little League World Series Championship, winning the game with a score of 5-2! They have become the first Little League World Series Champions from Michigan for the first time since 1959.
We are so proud of the team’s achievements and look forward to celebrating with them when they get home from Williamsport!