NEWS FROM THE SECOND DISTRICT
Dear Friend,
Police brutality is a serious issue that deserves serious attention. We have witnessed repeated violent and inexcusable behavior by a few in law enforcement who do not represent the overwhelming majority of good men and women sworn to service.
During Hurricane Michael, our law enforcement officers worked above and beyond the call of duty to help our communities. We witnessed police officers delivering supplies, ushering residents to safety, and working hard to restore a sense of normalcy in the months following the storm.
I have witnessed local police help our troubled youth and join marches to remind the people of our district that we are in this together. During the COVID pandemic, they have helped feed those in need, simply because they care about our communities. My own sons grew up revering the SROs in their schools. Most of those fine officers are still serving. They are friends to our sons and our family.
We must always strive for equal justice and we must also recognize and be grateful for the good that our law enforcement personnel contribute to our district.
Please read about my week below:
Coronavirus UpdatesRecent updates
- The CDC released guidance about Hurricane Preparedness during COVID-19. As we prepare during this season, it is important to take special caution to continue protecting ourselves against COVID-19.
- The SBA shared an updated Paycheck Protection Program report indicating that 4.5 million PPP loans have been approved and over $511 billion has been sent to small businesses. I have heard from many constituents whose small businesses have benefited from the PPP loans and I look forward to seeing these numbers grow.
- HHS announced that it will distribute additional payments through the Provider Relief Fund to Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) programs. $15 billion will go to providers in these programs who have not yet received funds. It will send an additional $10 billion of Provider Relief Funds to hospitals who serve low income and minority patients who are especially vulnerable populations.
- The Center for Medicaid Services (CMS) released guidance for individuals considering in-person healthcare as providers begin reopening. Many individuals have utilized telehealth options during this pandemic. As a medical doctor, I can speak to the value of in-person care. As non-emergency healthcare resumes and we consider visiting our providers, this guidance will be especially helpful.
- The FDA authorized the first COVID-19 diagnostic test which will be able to identify the precise genetic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in each individual. This is a great expansion of our testing capabilities and will also allow us to learn more about the virus' genetic information and how it mutates.
My Week in the DistrictCharity King's "Artemis, Goddess of Wild Animals"
Last week, I had the pleasure of calling Charity King of Marianna High School to congratulate her on winning the Congressional Art Competition for the Second Congressional District of Florida. Charity's artwork is one that all Americans can connect with. Florida’s 2nd District is home to a thriving agricultural industry and this artwork reflects our deeply held family farm experience. Charity’s painting encapsulates gentleness, warmth, and peace. Her artwork will be displayed in the Capitol for visitors from across the country to see. Thank you to all of our high school students who submitted artwork.
Committee UpdatesHouse Veterans Affairs Committee
Last Thursday, the House Veterans Affairs Committee held a hearing titled “Assessing VA's Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic: 90 Days Later.” This was a "hybrid" hearing in which members could join virtually or in-person. I traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in-person. We are able to do our best work when we meet together, as the institution was designed for. Members heard from several witnesses regarding the VHA's response to COVID-19. I am impressed by the VA healthcare system's robust response to the pandemic and its quick diversion of personnel and resources to "hot spots" for our veterans and civilians. I look forward to continue working with the VA to ensure that our veterans are receiving the best care possible.
Good News in FL-02The Phillips family was vacationing in Panama City Beach when their diabetic daughter's glucose monitoring system stopped working. The Philips had to utilize the finger-pricking testing method to monitor their daughter's blood sugar, but did not have enough testing strips. Mr. Philips drove to the Walmart on Front Beach Road in Panama City Beach, only to find that the store was closed. He explained the situation to a security guard and a few minutes later, a store employee came out with testing strips for Mr. Philips. She paid for them herself. I am so grateful for our local community members who serve our residents and those visiting our beautiful beaches with this level of care. This is the kind of selflessness that embodies the spirit of our district. Click here to read the full article in the Panama City News Herald.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve you in Congress!
Sincerely,
Dr. Neal Dunn
Member of Congress
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IN THE NEWS
Constituent Casework Corner
In order to protect veterans from contracting COVID-19, the Department of Veterans Affairs, in accordance with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cancelled elective procedures. However, a veteran who had been scheduled to have multiple teeth extracted contacted my office a few weeks after his oral surgery was cancelled when his pain became more than he could handle. We were able to work with the VA to clarify that the veteran’s situation had become an emergency and his extraction was scheduled a couple days later.
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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