For Immediate Release:
March 17, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.286.1987 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Update from Councilmember Grosso regarding the passing of emergency legislation for COVID-19
Washington, D.C. – The following is an update from Councilmember David Grosso (I-At Large) regarding the passing of emergency legislation for COVID-19 protections and procedures:
The last few days have been an extraordinary test for the residents of the District of Columbia. The need to protect the health and safety of our neighbors has impacted all of our daily lives but I appreciate everything each resident is doing to help us “flatten the curve”, limit the effects of the ongoing global pandemic, and ensuring that our health care system isn't overwhelmed. Please continue to practice responsible social distancing, contacting your health care provider if you are experiencing symptoms, and looking out for your neighbors as best you can.
Remember that coronavirus.dc.gov is the best all-in-one resource during the public health emergency. Check in often for new updates.
The coronavirus public health emergency will have a tremendous economic impact on all of our residents. A strong social safety net is integral to mitigate its impacts on our neighbors and businesses. I’m proud of the collaboration between the Council and the Mayor that has resulted in emergency legislation passed today that shores up that safety net in the face of these challenging times.
Below you will find some highlights of the bill. As always, you can contact me and my team at 202.724.8015 or via email. You can find all of Team Grosso’s contact information here.
Protecting residents’ health, safety, and financial stability
Workers whose work is affected in some way by the public health emergency will be able to access unemployment insurance with no waiting period and no requirement to be actively searching for work. Learn how to file claims here.
Extends D.C. Family and Medical Leave Act protections and loosens requirements to workers affected by the public health emergency, regardless of employer’s number of employees.
Extends and ensures continuity of benefits for residents under assistance programs, including TANF, SNAP, and the DC Health Care Alliance.
Makes price gouging and stockpiling illegal to ensure every resident can access adequate food and household goods.
Prohibits utilities from cutting off electricity, water, gas services and stops evictions during the public health emergency.
Allows residents to access adequate supplies of vital prescriptions by waiving waiting period for pharmacy refills.
Extends the validity of expired licenses and registrations, such as the drivers’ or professional licenses, that require an in-person renewal.
Empowers insurance commissioner to take actions to protect consumers during a public health emergency.
Supporting our local small businesses
Creates a grant and loan program for small business–including non-profits, contractors, and self-employed individuals–that can be used to pay employee wages and benefits, operating costs including taxes and debt service, and repayment of SBA loans.
Extends tax payment due dates for certain businesses in the District.
Allows restaurants switching to carry out or delivery to serve closed-container wine, beer, and spirits along with food.
Aiding our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness
Extends limits and lowers barriers on shelter placements during a public health emergency.
Empowers the mayor to protect the health and safety of those residing in shelter.
Ensuring continued government operations
Provides the mayor greater powers to effectively respond to a public health emergency.
Allows Council to meet virtually.
Waives requirements for Advisory Neighborhood Commissions to meet during a public health emergency but also allows them to meet virtually.
Extends deadline for mayor to submit annual budget proposal from March 19, 2020 to May 6, 2020.