NEWS FROM THE SECOND DISTRICT
Dear Friend,
Tomorrow we recognize Memorial Day and all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the Armed Forces. Our great nation stands free and prosperous because of them. This Memorial Day, stay safe, and join me in remembering why we celebrate.
We are entering a new phase in the Coronavirus pandemic where daily cases reported are declining and states are using their judgement to reopen businesses and public spaces. This is good news. North Florida is getting back to work. The Trump Administration is executing a sweeping, unprecedented response to mobilize resources for the development of testing, vaccines and therapeutics. The increases in serology and nucleic acid testing are a perfect example of this. The Administration is taking effective steps to fight the Coronavirus while also directing economic relief for our Americans who are in the greatest need.
While the federal, state and local responses to this virus are encouraging, it is the constituents of FL-02 who inspire my optimism for our nation's fight against the pandemic. The individuals in our district are innovative, entrepreneurial and community-minded. Last week, I was privileged to visit a food distribution site in Jackson County, attend Hope School's graduation, and meet with local business owners.
We are learning from many business owners that they are in dire need of employees. Businesses are also concerned about liability issues due to customers filing lawsuits as a result of contracting COVID-19. House Republicans joined Senator Mitch McConnell on a conference call last week and I shared these points. I look forward to hearing from more business owners and all constituents regarding the specific issues they are facing so that I may take these to Washington, D.C. and continue working for you.
Please read about my week below:
Coronavirus UpdatesRecent Updates
- The Trump Administration launched the Operation Warp Speed (OWS) project which will utilize the public and private sectors to develop, manufacture and distribute COVID-19 medical countermeasures including vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics. OWS seeks to rapidly and effectively mobilize our resources to develop and widely deploy a vaccine by 2021.
- President Trump issued an executive order directing federal agencies to "rescind, modify, or temporarily waive regulations” that hinder economic growth. This returns power to our small businesses and allows them more flexibility when making decisions to recover and grow their operations.
- The CDC issued guidance for public pools, hot tubs and water playgrounds for proper maintenance as public spaces are reopening.
- Health & Human Services provided $225 million for COVID-19 testing in rural health clinics. This funding will help 158 rural health clinics in Florida to expand their testing capabilities.
- The USDA released details about the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). CFAP provides $16 billion in direct payments for farmers and ranchers whose production has suffered as a result of the Coronavirus. This will give vital relief to our agriculture sector. Additional information may be found here. Applications open on May 26th.
My Week in the DistrictVisiting Sunrise Café & Bakery with Mayor Sheldon
.jpg "Sunrise_Bakery_(2).jpg") It was a pleasure to visit with Mark Sheldon, Mayor of Panama City Beach at Sunrise Café & Bakery. Mayor Sheldon and I discussed issues small businesses are currently facing, the reopening process, and short term vacation rentals. Owners Alex and Moret made us feel like we were right at home during our visit. Thank you, Alex and Moret, for your hospitality!Hope School Graduation
.jpg "Hope_School_Graduation_(2).jpg") Last week, I joined Hope School's drive-thru graduation ceremony in Marianna. It was a privilege joining these students to recognize and celebrate their success. Many thanks to the teachers and staff who made the ceremony possible and hugely enjoyable while adhering to CDC guidelines. Meal Preparation Site Visit.jpg "Jackson_Co_Schools_Food_Distro_(2).jpg") Jackson County School District provides meals for K-12 students while they are out of school. On Thursdays, students can pick up their food or utilize the drop-off service. Riverside Elementary School in Marianna serves as one of the meal preparation sites in the county. Last Thursday, I visited Riverside and expressed my appreciation for the work their staff is doing to support our students. Committee Updates
House Veterans Affairs CommitteeLast week, the House Veterans Affairs Committee's Women Veterans Task Force held a virtual forum to discuss the mental health of women veterans. The Task Force heard from several witnesses who spoke to the unique needs of women veterans and their mental health. During the COVID-19 pandemic and its related stresses, there are particular concerns for our women veterans that deserve our attention. I look forward to working with my colleagues to identify areas of need and create solutions for the many mental health challenges our women veterans face. Good News in FL-02CARES Act Funding in Suwannee County The Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent stay-at-home orders caused a significant decrease in air travel which is hurting our local airports. I was pleased to learn that the Suwannee County Airport will receive $30,000 from the CARES Act through the Federal Aviation Administration. These funds will be used for payroll and operations. The airport is also looking to pursue future projects including a terminal renovation and a new hangar. Many of you have shared the ways that CARES Act provisions have assisted your businesses and households through this time. The funds for the airport are one of many ways we are seeing real economic relief. Click here to read the full article in the Suwannee Democrat. As the reopening process continues, it is important to adhere to CDC guidelines and exercise caution when around others. As a reminder, stay at home if you are feeling ill, cover your mouth and nose when sneezing, and wash and sanitize your hands. Visit my website here for updated Coronavirus resources. We will get through this pandemic together.
Thank you for your continued energy and optimism, as reflected in your letters and Facebook posts. If you haven’t already, LIKE my Facebook page. You can also follow me on Twitter @DrNealDunnFL2.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in Congress!
Sincerely,
Dr. Neal Dunn
Member of Congress
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 I enjoyed visiting local businesses in Washington County and thanking them for serving our community during this pandemic.
IN THE NEWS
Constituent Casework Corner
A constituent drove several hours to have their Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) renewed, but the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Agent claimed their marriage certificate wasn’t certified appropriately. Knowing the certificate was valid, and getting nowhere with the TSA Agent, the constituent contacted my office. After we contacted TSA, they were able to determine the constituent was correct about the marriage certificate being valid and worked with them to have their TWIC renewed.
Do you need help with a federal agency? Contact my office at 850-785-0812 or at www.dunn.house.gov
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