May 6, 2020


	Wednesday, May 6, 2020	WEBSITE \| SHARE ON:

Congressional Report

Dear Friends,

Now more than ever, we must come together and take the proper precautions to keep ourselves, and each other, healthy and safe. Please don't forget about the basic health guidelines from the Center for Disease Control & Prevention. Remember to wash your hands, practice social distancing, wear a face covering, and when possible, stay home.

In the district this week, I held a telephone town hall for high school and college students to discuss education during the COVID-19 pandemic. I also joined various other virtual town halls, which you can find on my Facebook page, to update the public on what the federal government is doing to protect families, front line workers, small businesses and more.

I am committed to keeping each and every single one of you informed throughout this pandemic and will continue working to ensure that our district receives the necessary resources needed to combat this virus. I urge you to visit my website and social media pages, @repcuellar, to stay informed with the latest news.

I would also like to reiterate that my staff continues to work with constituents in the district, as well as those stranded overseas.

As always, please contact one of my offices if you need assistance with any federal agency.

Rep. Cuellar's Education Town Hall

On Tuesday, April 28, I held a telephone town hall for high school and college students throughout the district. Joined by superintendents, college and university presidents, as well as other education administrators, we addressed questions and concerns regarding the eventual return back to school, educational loans/grants, and future careers in a post COVID-19 world. Pictured is Rep. Cuellar during the town hall. A link to the live stream can be found here.

Appropriators at Work

Even though I am currently in the district, my work in Congress has not slowed down. This past week, I was apart of numerous Appropriation Committee briefings to discuss coronavirus response efforts. We had discussions with numerous officials from the Department of Treasury, the Department of State, and USAID. As a senior Appropriator, I will continue to ensure that the necessary federal funding and resources reach all areas of our nation and continue help provide relief against this pandemic.

Where's my refund?

Although the IRS has extended tax day to July 15, many have filed or are in the process of filing. As a reminder, the IRS typically issues most refunds within 21 days. The IRS asks that you only call to inquire about your refund if: it's been 21 days since you e-filed, 6 weeks or more if you mailed your return, or your "Where's my refund?" advises you to call. For more information regarding what you need to file and other refund topics, click here.

Are you a senior concerned about your health?

I am committed to ensuring that our most vulnerable populations, including our seniors, continue to receive care and their benefits during this health crisis. If you are on Medicare, it's important to understand all the benefits covered to COVID-19. For instance, did you know that Medicare covers COVID-19 lab tests? You won't have to pay anything out of pocket. Medicare has also expanded its telehealth and related services in response to coronavirus. For a more extensive list of Medicare updates and services, click here.

Constituent Spotlight: Roma ISD

With the constant flow of news, it can sometimes be overwhelming. In case you needed some good news today, Roma ISD's mariachi program was featured on the Kelly Clarkson Show for their epic virtual performance of "El Relampago." Congrats to Mariachi Director Eloy Garza and all the students apart of the program! Nothing makes me happier than seeing people within our community coming together, (even if they are physically apart), to shed some light during these dark times. Thank you for not only putting a smile on my face, but for putting a smile on many others. Pictured is Kelly Clarkson and Roma ISD mariachi program. For a link to the interview, click here.

Coronavirus Resource Handbook

My office's COVID-19 Resource Handbook can be 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 those responding to the pandemic on the ground. 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.

Stay Home and Fill Out the 2020 Census

As many of us are staying home and practicing social distancing, don't forget to take part in the 2020 Census. 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.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention: 6 Steps to Prevent COVID-19

The best way to protect yourself and all those around you from COVID-19 is to practice safe and proper hygiene.