Dear Neighbor:
Here is some information that I hope you will find helpful, including some updates on the state’s efforts to address COVID-19 as well as other news from your state government.
Upcoming Event: Virtual Coffee Hour
Please join me for a Facebook Live coffee hour this Monday, April 12, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. You will find the event on my Facebook page at that time. I will give a legislative update and answer any questions you may have. Please email KaraHope@house.mi.gov with any questions or topics you would like covered. I look forward to speaking with you all soon.
All Michiganders 16 and Up Are Eligible for the COVID-19 Vaccine
As of yesterday, everyone age 16 and older in Michigan is eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. The Ingham County Health Department has previously suggested that individuals register for the COVID-19 vaccine with multiple providers. Aside from the health department, other pharmacies are administering the vaccine, including Sparrow Health Systems, McLaren Greater Lansing, Rite Aid, Meijer and more.
Lansing BWL Will Not Shut off Water or Electricity Services
With the recent expiration of Michigan’s water shut-off moratorium, the Lansing Board of Water and Light has announced it will not shut off water or electricity services until July 2021. Residents outside BWL’s service area can apply for water and energy assistance through MSHDA’s COVID Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) Program. Individuals can also receive water and energy assistance through the State Emergency Relief (SER) Program. Contact your local health and human services department for more information, or apply on the MI Bridges website.
Spring Break Travelers Encouraged to Get Tested for COVID-19
Spring break travelers are highly encouraged to get tested for COVID-19 once they return home. To help get more individuals tested, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is offering free, rapid COVID-19 testing at 37 pop-up locations around the state. A list of the dates, times and locations for pop-up testing can be found here.
Subsidized Health Insurance Enrollment Period Extended
President Biden recently announced that the enrollment period for government-subsidized health insurance plans will be open until Aug. 15, 2021. During this time, uninsured people can buy a plan, and those who want to change their marketplace coverage can do so. To learn more or apply, visit healthcare.gov.
While legislative offices are generally closed to the public, my team and I are still providing responsive service to 67th House District residents. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at (517) 373-0587 or by email at karahope@house.mi.gov if we can help.
Sincerely,
Kara Hope
State Representative