Dear Friends,

As we continue to track cases of COVID-19 in Michigan, it’s important for all of us to take the appropriate precautions to keep everyone safe and to slow the spread of this disease.

Although the Michigan House of Representatives has recently issued new policies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the Capitol, my staff and I are still available to assist you! Never hesitate to reach out to me at LauriePohutsky@house.mi.gov or by phone at (517) 373-3920. Since most staff is required to work remotely at this time, you may need to leave a message, but we will respond to you as quickly as possible. 

Laurie Pohutsky
State Representative
19th House District

Statewide Hotline · (888) 535-6136

Public health experts are available seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to answer your health-related questions about COVID-19 at (888) 535-6136.

Securing $150 Million in Emergency Coronavirus Funding

Following more than 12 hours of deliberations earlier this week, the Michigan House and Senate unanimously approved approximately $125 million in emergency coronavirus relief for Michigan residents. House Bill 4279 allocates $40 million for public health emergency response such as monitoring and testing, $50 million to support hospitals, nursing homes, and other critical health care facilities, and $35 million for other response activities. This is in addition to $25 million in emergency funding the Legislature approved last week, bringing the total to $150 million.


Expanding Unemployment Benefits

Beginning Monday, March 16, until Tuesday, April 14, Michigan is temporarily expanding unemployment benefit eligibility to those affected by COVID-19. Benefits will be extended to:

  • Workers who have an unanticipated family care responsibility, like child care due to school closures or caring for a loved one who is ill;
  • Workers who are sick, quarantined or immunocompromised, and do not have access to paid leave time or are laid off; and
  • First responders in the public health community who become ill or are quarantined.

Benefits will also be extended from 20 to 26 weeks, the eligibility period would be increased from 14 to 28 days, and the normal in-person registration and work search requirements will be suspended.

For more information or to apply for unemployment benefits, visit Michigan.gov/UIA or call (866) 500-0017.

Extending the Tax Foreclosure Deadline

Effective immediately, the state is extending the deadline for residents to pay back taxes and avoid foreclosure until May 29, 2020 or 30 days after the declared state of emergency is terminated, whichever comes first.

Expanding Access to Telemedicine

Michigan residents receiving Medicaid benefits can now take advantage of telemedicine health services from their home. In addition, most major health insurers have announced that they will cover and encourage the use of virtual care, while waiving cost-sharing for COVID-19 testing. Call your health care provider for more information.

Combating Price Gouging

Effective Monday, March 16, until Monday, April 13, Michigan is cracking down on businesses and individuals that engage in price gouging on consumer food items, emergency supplies, and other goods and materials. Residents are urged to report any price gouging or other violations of the Consumer Protection Act online by clicking here or by calling (877) 765-8388.

Additional Resources

For a complete list of strategies to keep you and your loved ones healthy, click here. For the latest information as the situation continues to develop, visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.