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.

MI ‘Vacc to Normal’ Challenge

Governor Whitmer announced a plan last week to get Michigan back to normal by tying COVID-19 vaccination rates to relaxing public health restrictions. As of April 29, 2021, 48.8% of Michiganders have been vaccinated. The following four-tier system will be implemented as vaccine numbers increase:

  • Two weeks after 55% of Michiganders (4.4 million residents) are vaccinated: all in-person work will be allowed.
  • Two weeks after 60% of Michiganders (4.8 million residents) are vaccinated:
    • Indoor capacity at sports stadiums will increase to 25%;
    • Indoor capacity at conference centers, banquet halls and funeral homes will increase to 25%;
    • Capacity at exercise facilities and gyms will increase to 50%; and
    • The curfew on restaurants and bars will be lifted.
  • Two weeks after 65% of Michiganders (5.2 million residents) are vaccinated:
    • Indoor capacity limits will be lifted; and
    • Limits on residential social gatherings will be relaxed.
  • Two weeks after 70% of Michiganders (5.6 million residents) are vaccinated: the Gatherings and Face Masks Order will be lifted.

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. In addition to the health department, Sparrow Health Systems, McLaren Greater Lansing, Rite Aid, Meijer and other pharmacies are administering the vaccine.

Restaurant Revitalization Fund Registration is Now Open

Registration for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund opened Monday, May 3. Part of the American Rescue Plan, the Restaurant Revitalization Fund will offer $28 billion in grants to restaurants, bars and similar businesses that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible businesses can receive a tax-free grant equal to the amount of its pandemic-related revenue loss. For the first 21 days, the fund will prioritize direct relief to women, veterans, and socially- and economically-disadvantaged individuals. After that 21-day window, funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Find more information and register here.

AG Nessel Warns of Fraudulent UIA Text Scam

Attorney General Nessel warns that unemployment insurance claimants have been receiving fraudulent texts from scammers stating that they are from the Unemployment Insurance Agency. The UIA will only contact claimants through Michigan Web Account Manager (MiWAM) or via mail. All texts or emails that claim to be from UIA are fraudulent.

hope 100 days

It’s been an honor to serve you over these first 100 days of the 101st Legislative Session. I’m proud of the work my team and I have done. We’re committed to working hard to meet the challenges that lay ahead for Michigan and the 67th House District.

While legislative offices are generally closed to the public, my team and I are still providing responsive service. 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