These last few weeks have been unpredictable and the situation caused by this pandemic has and will continue to change rapidly, but I would like to thank our community remaining resilient throughout this crisis.
This edition of my e-update includes information on two major developments occurred this week in regards to addressing and adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first topic is the COVID-19 relief bill was passed by both houses of the legislature and was signed into law by Governor Evers. The second, was the extension of the Safer at Home Emergency Order. More information on both of these topics can be found below. Also included this week is information on unemployment benefit updates and a listing of trusted COVID-19 resources.
If you have any questions or need assistance with any matter, please feel free to contact my office.
Sincerely, Lisa Subeck State Representative 78th Assembly District
COVID-19 Relief Bill Passes Legislature & Signed by Governor
This week, the legislature took a much needed action to provide relief to workers, families, businesses, and farmers who are suffering as a result of the pandemic. Outlined below are a few of the provisions the legislation addresses:
Temporarily waives the one week waiting period for unemployment benefits.
Permits the Department of Health Services (DHS) to apply for federal Medicaid waivers, which will provide Wisconsin with emergency healthcare funding.
Requires health insurers to cover COVID-19 testing without charging a co-pay.
Allows former and out-of-state healthcare providers to get temporary credentials to practice in Wisconsin.
Enables households to apply for heating assistance through the Department of Administration's (DOA) low-income home energy assistance program anytime during 2020.
While this was a good first step, there is much more work to be done to protect against the long-term ripple effects that COVID-19 will have on our state such as investing more into grants for small business, increasing coverage for COVID-19 testing & telehealth services, a full repeal of the one week waiting period for unemployment insurance, and numerous protections for our elections.
Yesterday, Governor Evers issued emergency order #28 which extends and makes some changes to the initial Safer at Home order. I am sure you have many questions about this order, and many might find answers in this FAQ the governor's office provided.
The governor's decision to extend the Safer at Home order affects us all in different ways, and may be causing you anxiety about your employment, income, business, health coverage and more. These are all legitimate concerns in addition those surrounding the virus itself. I am sure you have many questions about this order, and can likely find some of those answers in this FAQ the governor's office has provided.
I want to assure you my staff and I are here for you. We will continue to answer your phone calls and emails, assist you with any problems you may be experiencing with state agencies, and continue to provide you with resources and information from your state government surrounding COVID-19.
The updated Safer at Home order goes into effect next Friday, April 24, 2020.
Unemployment Benefit Update Are You or Someone you Know Having Trouble Receiving Unemployment Benefits? If it has been at least three weeks since you submitted your application and you have not received your benefits, my office may be able to help you. Email Rep.Subeck@legis.wi.gov with the following information:
Full name
Phone number
Issue you want to be resolved (i.e. When will I receive my benefits?)
Status of your application
Did you apply online?
What date did you submit it?
Are you awaiting a decision on something that had to be investigated?
My staff will send this information to the Department of Workforce Development (DWD) and request that they promptly look into your case. I understand that this is a difficult financial time for many, and I am committed to helping you receive your benefits in a timely manner.
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CARES Act Benefits to become Available April 26th
The Department of Workforce Development (DWD) has been working hard to update their systems to adjust for the unemployment changes in the federal CARES Act. This week, they announced:
The Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (additional $600 per week) will be available beginning the week of April 26. This benefit will be automatically added to your weekly claims.
The Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (new unemployment insurance for those not covered under the regular insurance - self-employed, independent contractors, etc.) will begin accepting applications the week of April 21. Your first payable week will be retroactive to the first week you were out of work due to COVID-19 (as long as that was not before the week ending on February 8).
The Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (additional 13 weeks of regular unemployment insurance) will be available soon.
For more detailed information, visit the DWD CARES Act webpage HERE.