| |
|
Dear Friends,
|
|
This past week, I continued to work with local, state and federal officials to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Through various briefings, calls and teleconferences with these officials, organizations and government agencies, we discussed the most recent funding updates in response to COVID-19, as well as what is being done to slow down the spread of the virus.
As our communities continue to plan for a phased reopening, remember to stay safe by wearing face coverings, continue to practice social distancing, and implement clean hygiene in your daily routines.
I am committed to keeping you informed throughout this pandemic and will continue working to ensure our district receives the necessary federal resources to combat this virus. I urge you to visit my website and social media pages, @repcuellar, to stay informed with the latest news.
|
|
|
|
| Rep. Cuellar attends McMullen ISD Graduation Ceremony |
|
On Friday, May 23, I traveled to McMullen County ISD for the class of 2020's graduation commencement ceremony. While there, I spoke to the students and their families about the importance of being involved in our democracy and using the skills and knowledge they've gained during their time at high school to further their education and careers. I'd like to thank Superintendent Jason Jones, Principal Jason Timms and the rest of the school district for making sure everyone remained at a safe distance from one another, while still allowing for this momentous occasion to take place. Pictured is Rep. Cuellar and the 23 graduating students.
|
The Heroes Act Protects Our Older Americans
The Heroes Act ensures everyone can access free COVID-19 treatment by eliminating the cost sharing for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and those with private health insurance, TRICARE, VA Health Care, and Federal Employee Health Benefits. As a member of the task Task Force on Aging and Families, I am committed to protecting the health of older Americans during this pandemic.
USDA Begins Accepting Applications for Direct Payments
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has started accepting applications for direct payments who have suffered losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) will provide up to $16 billion to deliver relief to farmers and ranchers, who have had a five-percent-or-greater price decline or who had losses due to market supply chain disruptions during this pandemic. To apply, click here.
U.S. Small Business Administration to Provide Export Loans
In addition to COVID-19 relief efforts, the U.S. Small Business Administration is providing export loans to help small businesses overcome challenges associated with trade. For more information on the benefits of export products, programs, loans and more, click here.
| COVID-19 Update: Visiting Parks & Recreational Facilities |
|
Staying physically active is one of the best ways to keep both your mind and body healthy. Many state and city parks have begun to open, meaning it is critical that we ensure the best practices to keep ourselves and other safe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a list of "Do's and Don'ts" of what to do when visiting these areas.
Do: visit parks close to your home; prepare before you visit; practice social distancing (6 ft.)
Don't: visit parks if you are sick or have been exposed to COVID-19; visit crowded parks; use playgrounds; participate in organized activities or sports
|
Coronavirus Resource Handbook
My office's COVID-19 Resource Handbook provides an extremely helpful list of tools and services for all those in the district. We are constantly updating the information in our handbook and you can regularly check my website for the newest edition. This wide-ranging economic rescue package provides rapid and meaningful assistance for individuals, businesses, and first responders.
Sections include: unemployment, direct payments, food assistance, homeowners and protection programs, and more. If you have any questions about the topics listed on the handbook, please contact my offices for assistance. To view the English handbook, click here. To view the Spanish handbook, click here.
Don't Forget About the 2020 Census!
As of May 22, our district currently has a response rate of 44.8%. Although we are slowly improving our district rates, we're still trailing behind the state's average rate of 54.5%. Let's improve these numbers and make sure every, man, woman, and child living in TX-28 is properly accounted for. You can complete the census form online, by clicking here. If you want to complete it by phone, call: 1-844-330-2020. Or, you can respond through mail, once you receive the paper form.
| This Week's Grant Newsletter |
|
|
|
|
Don't miss out on a grant opportunity! Attracting more federal funds to the district and region has been a top priority during my tenure in Congress. In an effort to better serve you, I want to provide you with information on a variety of open federal grant opportunities in each week's newsletter. To see this week's edition, click here. If you'd like to subscribe to the weekly grants newsletter, please fill out our google doc form.
|
Congrats to the Graduating Classes of 2020!
|
|
Graduation ceremonies may look a little different this year, but many of you have reached a major milestone in your lives, and that is something worth celebrating.
Congrats to the graduating classes of 2020. You're future is bright and your journey is only beginning. Watch the video, here.
|
|
|
Take My Latest Survey
|
| CONNECT |
|
| LATEST NEWS |
|
5/26, NPR: Unlikely Allies Band Together in Laredo To Oppose The Border Wall
5/22, Gray TV: Texas Rep. Henry Cuellar discusses managing trade at the border during the pandemic
5/22, KVEO: Rep. Cuellar announces $16 billion to farmers through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program
5/22, KVEO: Congressman Cuellar's nominee from Sharyland receives acceptance into the US Air Force Academy
5/17, Rio Grande Guardian: Cuellar, Hurd: US & MX need same definition for what is 'essential business'
5/15, Texas Tribune: Trump administration waives environmental safeguards to fast-track 69 miles of border fence construction
5/14, Border Report: Texas congressmen question hold-up on relief funding for smaller border towns.
5/14, Texas Border Business: Congressman Gonzalez and Members of Texas Democratic Delegation Call on Gov. Abbott to Suspend Raising Property Evaluations
5/13, Border Report: Texas, Mexican lawmakers Zoom to discuss how to best reopen borders
|
|
|
|
| NEWSLETTER |
|
Sign Up for My Newsletter
|
|
