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Dear Friend,
I’m continuing to work closely with federal, state and local officials to monitor and fight the coronavirus in our community. There has been a lot of new information about the coronavirus and our community’s response, so I wanted to make sure you didn’t miss anything:
Re-opening Florida Survey: As we consider how to save our economy while keeping Floridians safe and healthy, it’s important we consider all options moving forward. Part of that process includes taking public comment from Floridians like you. Many of you have reached out to me and my office with concerns and suggestions about re-opening Florida and our economy. Now you can express those to Gov. DeSantis directly! As of Sunday, Gov. DeSantis and Florida’s re-opening task force are accepting public comments, suggestions and concerns. Click here to ensure your voice is heard by participating in this important discussion.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Update: Yesterday morning, the U.S. Small Business Administration resumed accepting Paycheck Protection Program loan applications from approved lenders on behalf of eligible borrowers. Small businesses are what make our communities unique and I’m glad to see these funds help provide a lifeline to Florida families and businesses whose livelihoods have been negatively affected by this pandemic.
For businesses still looking to apply, here’s the application and the list of participating lenders by state. Click here for the most up-to-date FAQ document from the Treasury Department about the Paycheck Protection Program.
Stimulus Check Update: The Treasury Department and the IRS just updated their website to provide more accurate information concerning your stimulus payment. Click here to check on the status of your stimulus check.
Local Government Update: Florida K-12 schools will continue distance learning and remain physically closed until the end of this school year. Parents and students should visit their school district’s website for more information on closures and distance learning guidelines:
Click here for an update on Volusia County’s high schools and this year’s graduation back-up plans.
Local Beaches Update:
- Flagler County beaches are now open all day for exercise only, including for walking, swimming, fishing. No sunbathing allowed. Boardwalk and piers remain closed until further notice.
- Volusia County beaches are open for exercise only. Please be advised that swimmers swim at their own risk and lifeguards may not be on duty.
- St. Johns County beaches are open from 6 a.m to noon seven days a week for limited activities, including walking, running, exercising, surfing, biking, fishing, swimming and surfing.
Testing in Volusia and Flagler Counties:
- Flagler County: The drive-thru coronavirus testing site is open to qualifying residents. Call 386-313-4200 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to complete a short screening process to qualify for an appointment. Residents must have:
- Underlying medical conditions resulting in weakened immune systems or be over the age of 65
- Symptoms of COVID-19 which includes fever, cough and shortness of breath
- Volusia County: Three testing locations are open and operating Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. No referral nor appointment is necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, visit one of these three locations:
- 960 S. Williamson Blvd. - Daytona Beach Racing and Card Club (drive-thru testing)
- 1200 Deltona Blvd. - Deltona Plaza (drive-thru testing)1205 S. Woodland Blvd. - DeLand (walk-up only)
- Volusia County Fairgrounds: Antibody testing for COVID-19 will begin early next month on May 4 starting at 8:30 a.m.
- No appointment necessary but a blood draw will be required for the test
- Cost of the test should be covered by insurance or free if you don’t have insurance
- Located at 3150 E New York Ave, DeLand, FL 32724
Good News of the Day: Florida’s favorite grocery store, Publix, has purchased 150,000 pounds of excess produce and 43,500 gallons of milk to donate to food banks to feed Americans in need and to help our farmers and growers across our state and the country. Another reason why we love Publix!
FAQs and resources for individuals, small businesses & farmers: I have compiled a list of resources and Frequently Asked Questions to help ensure you have all the information you need to receive support that Congress has put in place:
For more information about the coronavirus in Florida, visit my website here.
As always, follow my daily work on social media by liking my Facebook page and following me on Twitter, YouTube and Instagram and feel free to reach out to my offices in Florida or Washington, D.C. if my team or I can ever be of service.
In Service,
Michael Waltz |