Dear Friends - 

As we face the Omicron variant, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and our community, as well as resources available to you if you are struggling to make ends meet.  

The best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 remains getting vaccinated and your booster shot when you are eligible. I supported legislation in the last Congress that ensures the COVID-19 vaccine is free for all Americans. At vaccines.gov, you can find a vaccine site near you and schedule an appointment. 

Testing is another important tool to mitigate spread. You can visit 2-1-1 Connecticut for a list of local testing sites and their policies. Additionally, the Biden Administration has taken steps to make at-home testing more accessible:

• Private health insurance providers are now required to cover the cost of at-home tests. For more information on how to access free, at-home testing through your insurance, click here. 
  
• The Biden Administration has launched COVIDtests.gov. Every household can order 4 at-home rapid COVID-19 tests to be delivered directly to your mailbox within 7-12 days. These tests are completely free, all you need to do is sign up and provide your shipping information. 
  

Last year, we passed the American Rescue Plan in Congress, doubling funding for home heating assistance and providing support for rental and electricity payment assistance: 

• Visit ct.gov/staywarm to learn more about eligibility for the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program and how to contact your Community Action Agency to apply. 
  
• You may be eligible for $15,000 in rental assistance and up to $1,500 in electricity payment assistance through UniteCT. Apply at portal.ct.gov/DOH/DOH/Programs/UniteCT. 

In November, I voted for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – creating the Affordable Connectivity Program. Eligible households can receive a discount of up to $30 per month on their Internet service. To learn more about eligibility requirements and apply for the Affordable Connectivity Program, visit fcc.gov/acp.

Please visit the State of Connecticut’s COVID resource page if you are looking for general assistance or guidance regarding resources available to you. 

To follow what I’m working on both in Washington and in Connecticut, visit my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or follow me on Instagram. Click here to sign up to continue to receive my newsletter.  

Regards,
 
John B. Larson
Member of Congress