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March 17, 2020

Dear Friends,

A lot has happened since the last time I wrote to you. Most notably, the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in our state and country has escalated. I know this has caused a lot of concerns and inconveniences for individuals, families, schools, businesses and communities. It is unsettling to all of us. But we will get through this uncertainty and difficult time – together.

I support the measures the governor has taken so far. While I acknowledge the hardship it is causing families and businesses, we must stop the spread of this virus or it will get much worse. We need the public sector, private sector, non-profit organizations, churches and volunteers to all come together to support the most vulnerable amongst us. I know we can do it. We must do it.  

Our local, state and federal governments are working hard to respond to this crisis. Here are some resources that you might find useful as you navigate your personal response to this situation:

Information and resources on coronavirus (COVID-19)

Washington State House Republicans: Information and resources on coronavirus (COVID-19)

• Please consider sharing this link with your family and friends.

General guidance from the Washington State Department of Health: Novel Coronavirus Fact Sheet

• Wash hands often with soap and water. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
• Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

Washington State Department of Health: 2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19)

• Symptoms and Testing.
• Resources and Recommendations.
• Current Situation in Washington – What's the current risk?
• 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Washington.
• Call center: 1-800-525-0127 | 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., seven days a week.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

• Symptoms
• If You Are at Higher Risk
• How to Prepare

Updates from the Governor's Office:

• Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) information and updates
• Public and constituent inquiries | (360) 902-4111
• COVID-19 resource list for impacted Washington businesses and workers

Contact information: Washington State Local Health Departments and Districts

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction: Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance & Resources

Employment Security Department:

• For workers and businesses affected by COVID-19 (coronavirus)
• COVID-19 | Scenarios & Benefits Available

U.S. Small Business Administration: Coronavirus (COVID-19): Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources

Department of Financial Institutions: Financial Resources for Washington Residents Impacted by COVID-19

Department of Labor & Industries:  Workers' Compensation Coverage and Coronavirus (COVID-19) Common Questions

Office of the Insurance Commissioner: Coronavirus

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Novel Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs: COVID-19 updates for family members and representatives of residents

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Protect yourself financially from the impact of the coronavirus

Looking ahead

The last bill passed by the Washington State House of Representatives in the 2020 legislative session appropriated $175 million from the state's rainy-day fund to assist with the coronavirus response. Our state is also expected to receive federal funding. If more must be done by the Legislature, I am confident state lawmakers will come together – in bipartisan fashion – to do what's best for Washingtonians.

Thank you for reading. Please stay safe and strong.

It is an honor to serve you.

Warm Regards,

Norma Smith