Finkenauer Seeking Input from Iowans on Coronavirus Impact
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Abby Finkenauer (IA-01) announced she is seeking comment from Iowa community leaders on how they see the coronavirus outbreak impacting the local economy. Concerns, priorities, and other information provided will be used to help inform Finkenauer on any potential future economic stimulus packages Congress may consider.
In a letter to local leaders, Finkenauer wrote, “As we take action to stop the spread of coronavirus in our state, I want to make sure that Congress is being as responsive as possible to your needs and concerns. Hearing how the outbreak is affecting your family, our businesses, and the community more broadly will drive our work to help keep folks safe and our economy strong.”
Iowans can submit their concerns, priorities, and other information (including asking questions of the office) by visiting the portal at this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1RC1A24_obYGB5Ay0Lc-0OxSu2YkDYDwzJXTYQtqV1kw
Those with questions relevant to the situation in Iowa and ongoing response efforts, contact 2-1-1. If you or your loved ones exhibit symptoms, please contact your local health department or the Iowa Department of Public Health (1-800-362-2736).
Anyone who needs assistance navigating issues with a federal agency should contact the Office of Representative Finkenauer to speak with a constituent advocate.
Background:
Sunday, Finkenauer sent a letter to Governor Kim Reynolds encouraging the state to create a more centralized location for key information, including consideration of school closures.
Saturday morning, Finkenauer voted to pass an emergency package to help Iowa families and health professionals impacted by coronavirus.
Taking early action, Finkenauer voted to approve a critical coronavirus funding package to help expand testing and research. Finkenauer also sent an oversight letter to the Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar seeking specific answers on whether local health agencies and hospitals have the tools they need.
Last week, Finkenauer helped host a Small Business Committee hearing on Coronavirus and asked a witness about health and safety, and financial security for hard-working Iowans impacted by coronavirus.
Finkenauer followed up that hearing last Thursday morning with an oversight letter asking the Small Business Administration (SBA) about their progress on providing information on small business assistance to Iowans along with what methods they will be doing outreach to Iowa businesses. Later that day, the SBA posted this information webpage.
Finkenauer also published a coronavirus informational page to help Iowans access important information regarding the global pandemic. The page is available at https://finkenauer.house.gov/coronavirus-information
Finkenauer’s office has been in contact with area hospitals, business organizations, schools and colleges with respect to the virus to understand any ongoing concerns. Friday, Finkenauer also spoke with Governor Kim Reynolds for an update on Iowa’s response to coronavirus.