Below is a press release from State Representative Dave Robertson’s Office:
WILMINGTON, MA — With another whirlwind week passing by for all of us, I once again wanted to advise and educate you on the rapid changes and reactions the federal and state government has made to help you weather these trying times. Again, every situation is different and if you have specific questions please do not hesitate to reach out – my office is still fully operational.
The federal government has of Sunday released some of the sorely needed guidance to respond to the unemployment benefits for independent contractors or self employed individuals. The state is literally working around the clock to update the system to begin this enrollment. Some minor clarification is needed, but as Governor Baker stated in his public address we are looking to have it implemented fully this week barring any federal delays.
Many individuals have reached out with regards to the $1,200 dollar stimulus checks – this will be handled by the federal government and not through the state. However, we are aware of many of the common issues asked by individuals and can be a resource to solve your problem. Those on Social Security or Social Security Disability will not have to worry about updating details as the federal government has authorized sharing between the Social Security Administration and Treasury to automatically disperse the money. You need to have filed a 2019 or 2018 tax return, if you have not your best bet is to consult an accountant or tax attorney. For those who have since switched banks or have opened a new account where they want such money deposited, the IRS will launch a web portal to allow you to update your information in a safe and secure manner.
CVS/MinuteClinic has opened a drive-through testing site for the public at the CrossPoint Tower/Showcase cinema parking lot in Lowell. People interested in being tested will need to pre-register at CVS.com and drive to the location at 32 Reiss Avenue, Lowell. Testing is free, but limited to high risk patients only. They are planning to test 1,000 individuals a day, and the tests results are returned almost immediately. Positive individuals will work with state officials and public health volunteers to trace their contacts and advise people who may have been infected, as well as provide critical information to plan for potential outbreaks.
The state has made terrific headway with our Personal Protective Equipment procurement, as many saw even our beloved Patriots pitched in. As of today hundreds of thousands of masks have been brought in and distributed, with hundreds of thousands more scheduled to be delivered. The state has also reallocated $800 million dollars to buff our healthcare networks for the coming weeks, as we approach our peak. From hospitals to ambulances to nursing facilities, we are ensuring that protective equipment, specialists, and support staff are able to afford, hire, and purchase whatever they need to ensure our health and safety.
The next two weeks will be the most difficult period we in Massachusetts will have experienced in many years, but as a member of the daily efforts against COVID I wanted to highlight a positive – you. Many of us remember Mr. Rogers quote ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” From the grocery store employees stocking the shelves to our nurses who are picking up shift after shift, the efforts of everyone in the community has left me speechless. My office has gotten calls from friends, family, and neighbors of folks in need, and the way you all have reached out to one another in a time in need has been something we all can be incredibly proud of. If I may be of further service to anyone, please reach out at your convenience, and please all be safe and healthy in the coming days.
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