AG Nessel Urges Feds to Stop Discouraging People from Accessing Health Coverage

AG Nessel Urges Feds to Stop Discouraging People from Accessing Health Coverage

by | Apr 6, 2020 | Uncategorized

Attorney General Dana Nessel

Attorney General Nessel wanted to make sure subscribers saw this release, which was also to be issued through the State Emergency Operations Joint Information Center (JIC).

Media Contact:

Kelly Rossman-McKinney
(o) 517-335-7666 (c) 517-512-9342

Courtney Covington
(o) 517-335-7666 (c) 517-290-1560

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Monday, April 6, 2020

AG Nessel Urges Federal Government to Stop Discouraging People from Accessing Health Coverage During Pandemic

Government statement “utterly fails” to encourage coverage, testing  

LANSING — While the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health crisis continues, the Trump administration refuses to confirm that accessing health coverage will not impair lawful immigrants’ abilities to stay in the country, asserts a recent letter from Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and 17 other attorneys general.

Following a contradictory and confusing alert from the federal government purporting to address the controversy, Attorney General Nessel has again joined a coalition calling on the Trump administration to delay its “public charge” rule while the COVID-19 outbreak spreads across the nation.

“Michigan is home to tens of thousands of legal immigrants who have every legal right to receive health care benefits without facing consequences for accepting them,” said Nessel. “COVID-19 doesn’t care who it infects and that’s evident in its impact on our nation and around the world. The federal government should want to do nothing but ensure all who live in this country have access to the care they need to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. I urge our U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services to do the right thing and suspend this rule at least while we’re in the midst of this crisis.”

Federal regulations allow many lawful immigrants to apply for public benefits, such as health care, if they have been in the country for at least five years. The new rule creates a “bait-and-switch” ― if immigrants use the public assistance to which they are legally entitled, they would jeopardize their chances of later renewing their visa or becoming permanent residents.

Nessel is also part of a coalition challenging the rule. The coalition won an injunction in federal district court but an appeals court declined to stay the rule while the case is pending.

The letter was sent March 19 to Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf and U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) senior official Ken Cuccinelli. It follows a March 6 letter the coalition sent to the same officials calling for the rule’s suspension. Though neither official responded to the initial letter, USCIS posted an “alert” on March 13 that said the government would not consider any form of testing or care related to COVID-19 in immigrants’ public charge assessment, “even if such treatment is provided or paid for by one or more public benefits, as defined in the rule (e.g. federally funded Medicaid).”

However, the letter points out that the alert contains confusing and internally contradictory statements about the impact on non-citizens of using Medicaid.

In their letter, the attorneys general assert: “If DHS is attempting to ensure noncitizens in our communities remain enrolled in Medicaid so they can use Medicaid services should they have symptoms of COVID-19, the Alert fails to achieve this. And likewise, if DHS is attempting to ensure that noncitizens seek testing and treatment for COVID-19 without fear of public charge consequences, the Alert also utterly fails to achieve this.

“Given the grave danger facing our nation’s health and economy, it is imperative that DHS not chill immigrants from enrolling in Medicaid or using Medicaid benefits for any purpose until the COVID-19 crisis is over.

“To protect the residents of our states and the rest of the country, we ask that DHS immediately announce that the Rule is stayed pending successful containment of COVID-19. Short of that, however, it is imperative that DHS at least make clear that enrollment in Medicaid and the use of Medicaid benefits for any reason will not be considered in the public charge assessment.”

Nessel joins the attorneys general of California, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia and Washington in sending this letter.

Orion Library Reads Together

by | Apr 6, 2020 | Uncategorized

Orion Reads Together

My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett
Wicket as You Wish by Rin Chupeco
An American Marriage: a Novel by Tayari Jones

#OrionReadsTogether is a community reads event that encourages community members to read one book at the same time. Starting Monday, April 6, we will be using social media to start discussions, plan activities, and host trivia events surrounding the titles.

  • 10am (daily) – Kids & Family
  • 2pm (Mon, Wed, Fri) – Teens
  • 6pm (daily) – Adults

Community members can come together online to discuss and participate in activities at these times, or on their own time as the posts will stay available, encouraging discussion in the comments.

Titles are available for download through Hoopla Digital with a valid OTPL library card.

Gov. Whitmer and Detroit Sports Call to Action

by | Apr 6, 2020 | News

Gov. Whitmer Teams Up with Detroit’s Professional Sports Teams on Call to Action for Health Care Volunteers

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 4, 2020 

Contact: [email protected] 

  

Gov. Whitmer Teams Up with Detroit’s Professional Sports Teams on Call to Action for Health Care Volunteers

  

LANSING, Mich. – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today teamed up with the Detroit Lions, Pistons, Red Wings, and Tigers to release a call to action video encouraging nurses and doctors to bring their skills to Michigan as a way to volunteer and help bolster the number of health care professionals on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

  

“I am grateful for the health care professionals who are on the front lines of this pandemic every single day, but these brave men and women can’t do it alone,” Whitmer said. “That’s why we are asking nurses, doctors, and qualified health care professionals across the country to bring their expertise to our state to combat this virus. If we work together, we can slow the spread and save lives.” 

  

Detroit’s professional sports teams joined forces to deliver a powerful message to fans across the state: 

 

“If you’re a health care professional anywhere in America, Michigan needs you. Detroit needs you.” 

  • Dwane Casey, Head Coach, Detroit Pistons

  

“We’re calling on doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and other health care professionals to volunteer to sign up to help us fight COVID-19 and save lives.” 

  • Matthew Stafford, Quarterback, Detroit Lions

 

“All you have to do is visit www.Michigan.gov/FightCOVID19, and complete a simple form.” 

  • Ron Gardenhire, Manager, Detroit Tigers

 

“We’ll share your information with hospitals and reach out soon if there’s a good fit for you.” 

  • Matt Patricia, Head Coach, Detroit Lions

 

“Please join our courageous health care professionals already on the front lines here in Detroit to fight this deadly virus.” 

  • Jeff Blashill, Head Coach, Detroit Red Wings

 

The full video can be viewed here: 

 

https://twitter.com/GovWhitmer

Most State Park, Trail and Boating Facilities Remain Open

by | Apr 6, 2020 | Uncategorized

– DNR News –
The following news release was shared earlier this evening by Michigan’s State Emergency Operations Center.
April 3, 2020
Media contact: Ron Olson, 517-243-1477
Public inquiries: DNR-ParksAndRecreation@Michigan.gov

Most State Park, Trail and Boating Facilities Remain Open, but Social Distancing Must be Maintained

LANSING, MICH. To help slow the spread of the coronavirus and in accordance with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order, the Department of Natural Resources continues to monitor visitation and adherence to social-distancing requirements at DNR-managed facilities. This means continually assessing needed adjustments to services and closures that best protect visitors, staff and the local communities.

A vast majority of state parks and recreation areas, state-managed trails and boating access sites remain open to provide local opportunities to get outdoors; however, all locations have modified services and/or closed amenities.

Recently, Tippy Dam Recreation Area in Manistee County was closed until further notice due to high numbers of visitors, lack of improper social distancing and people traveling long distances to reach the park.

“Throughout the stay-at-home order, we’ve seen an influx of visitors at state parks, boating access sites and trails,” said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. “In order to continue to keep state parks and trails open, we expect everyone to follow effective social distancing practices, to not litter and not travel long distances to enjoy the outdoors.

“If concerns continue to build, the DNR will have to look at closing or further limiting access to our state-designated trails, state parks, boating access sites and other outdoor locations,” he said.

As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves and additional information has become available to state, health and DNR officials, the following reminders and announcements are in place.

Do not litter. Please carry in, carry out

It’s been reported by both visitors and staff that a significant amount of trash has been left in state parks and boating access sites and at trailheads. Because of limited staff and the need to minimize public contact, trash services have been reduced in DNR-managed locations to dumpsters in designated locations. Visitors are asked to help protect our natural resources and bring a trash bag and “carry in, carry out” their trash and recyclables.

Social-distancing offenses could result in fines

The Department of Health and Human Services issued an emergency order April 2 that sets a civil penalty of up to $1,000 for not complying with executive orders banning gatherings and nonessential businesses, including social distancing (not keeping at least 6 feet between individuals) and a process for referral to licensing agencies for violations of Executive Orders 2020-11, 2020-20 and 2020-21. Criminal penalties for violation will remain an option for prosecutors.

Motorized and nonmotorized trails open for local visitors only

Even though the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order allows for engagement in outdoor activities, the DNR is asking visitors to stay local and not travel far distances to hike, run, bicycle or ride an ORV. Under the order, extensive travel is permitted only for essential needs.

DTE Energy Foundation Trail parking lot closures

The two primary parking lots for Waterloo Recreation Area’s DTE Energy Foundation Trail are closed due to reports of people gathering at trailheads and mountain biking trails and not adhering to social-distancing requirements. The parking lots are located on Cassidy Road and M-52 in Chelsea. The trail remains open for local use, and visitors should park in alternative and appropriate lots. There is no parking along M-52, and people are encouraged to bike into the trails to avoid crowding at other parking spots.

Dispersed camping

To help minimize nonessential travel, dispersed camping on public lands is closed until further notice. This falls in line with state park and recreation area campgrounds and state forest campgrounds that are also closed until further notice.

Fishing

Fishing is allowed, and the 2020 season is now open. Fishing is one outdoor activity that can be done with proper social distancing – just make sure to remain 6 feet away, or a fishing rod’s distance, from others and stay local.

Nonessential travel

The DNR continues to support the governor’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order, which includes that nonessential travel is not permissible, including travel to state parks, trails and other outdoor destinations outside the local area. Traveling outside local communities could unintentionally increase the spread of COVID-19 into nearby communities.

Keep the following guidelines in mind

  • Go out only if you’re feeling healthy.
  • Long-distance travel is discouraged unless it is essential.
  • Individuals must maintain a minimum of 6 feet between themselves and people of other households. Anyone not following the social distancing requirement may face a civil penalty of up to $1,000.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
  • When driving, keep windows slightly open to provide air flow. Do not drive with people who don’t live in your household.
  • If the parking lot is full when attempting to visit a park, recreation area, boating access site or trailhead, leave and choose a different nearby location.

Know before you go

Anyone planning to visit any state-managed land is first encouraged to visit the DNR COVID-19 response page for updates and frequently asked questions on facility closures, changes in services and event/meeting cancellations. Follow Michigan.gov/DNRClosures for the latest information.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
Seniors can get meals safely in Michigan

Seniors can get meals safely in Michigan

by | Apr 6, 2020 | Uncategorized

Seniors can get meals safely in Michigan during COVID-19 outbreak; State wants to increase public awareness of meals program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 3, 2020

CONTACT: Bob Wheaton, [email protected]

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan recently received additional federal dollars to help provide meals to older adults as the state responds to the COVID-19 pandemic, and wants to make seniors aware of food delivery programs.

These programs – available to Michigan residents over age 60 – provide meals through home delivery and pick up services during the current pandemic.

The need for these services – particularly home-delivered and packaged meals – has increased as community measures to slow transmission of COVID-19 have closed meal sites and left many family caregivers unable to assist older loved ones.

“COVID-19 is a threat to Michiganders, particularly older adults who are most vulnerable to complications related to the virus,” said Dr. Alexis Travis, senior deputy director of the Aging & Adult Services Agency at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). “Nutrition services are a lifeline for the nearly 100,000 older adults we serve through these programs. We are pleased to have additional resources to ensure more older adults in need here in Michigan have access to meals during this time.”

Seniors who need extra support at this time can now sign up for assistance, including meal delivery, delivery of non-perishable food items, and daily wellness-check calls, through the MDHHS coronavirus website.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act, signed into law on March 18, provides the additional funding for the nutrition services programs authorized by the Older Americans Act of 1965.

Michigan received just over $7.5 million to fund meals for older adults. This includes more than $5 million for home-delivered meals and more than $2.5 million for congregate meals.

In addition to meals, Older Americans Act programs provide a wide range of services, such as help with bathing and dressing, rides to doctors’ offices, education on managing chronic illnesses, support for family caregivers, and much more. Provided by a network of community-based organizations, such as Area Agencies on Aging, local community and senior centers, faith-based organizations, and other non-profit service providers, these programs work together to help millions of older adults each year stay healthy and continue to live independently.

Funding has been provided to states, territories, and tribes for subsequent allocation to local Area Agencies on Aging, which fund meal providers. Grant amounts are determined by population-based formulas defined in the Older Americans Act.

Older adults who need assistance can request help through the MDHHS coronavirus website or contact their local area agency on aging.

For more information about COVID-19, please visit Michigan.gov/coronavirus.  For more information about the Older Americans Act nutrition programs, please contact your local area agency on aging.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.