fbpx

The I-70 Scout & Eastern Colorado News

Category: National News

  • Gov. Polis orders flags lowered to half staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day

    Gov. Polis orders flags lowered to half staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day

    DENVER – Today, Gov. Polis ordered the Colorado and American flags be lowered to half staff on all public buildings statewide from sunrise to sunset on Friday, May 15, 2020, in recognition of Peace Officers Memorial Day, and as proclaimed by President Trump. 

    PEACE OFFICERS MEMORIAL DAY AND POLICE WEEK, 2020 

    BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 

    A PROCLAMATION

     On Peace Officers Memorial Day and during Police Week, we commend the brave men and women of our law enforcement community for continually summoning the courage to fulfill their solemn oath to protect and serve.  We also pause to remember all those who have lost their lives and who have suffered permanent disabilities defending their communities and the rule of law, including the heroes we have lost this year to the coronavirus.

    Throughout our Nation’s history, law enforcement officials have never wavered in the face of crisis or tragedy.  During uncertain times, law enforcement officers bravely face challenges and continue to protect the American people.  They steadfastly ensure the safety of our communities, providing a much needed sense of security for our citizens, and our country is extremely grateful for their efforts. 

    My Administration remains committed to ensuring our Nation’s Federal, State, local, and tribal law enforcement officers have the resources and support they need to perform their duties safely and effectively.  Last October, I was proud to sign an Executive Order to establish the Presidential Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice — the first commission on law enforcement in half a century.  This Commission identifies ways to reduce crime while simultaneously bringing law enforcement officers and the communities they serve closer together.  We have also worked to expand lifesaving programs like the National Blue Alert Network.  Thirty-five States have enacted Blue Alert plans, which provide early warnings to law enforcement agencies, the media, and the public by transmitting Blue Alerts to cell phones, television stations, and other devices.  These alerts disseminate information on suspects who pose an imminent and credible threat to the safety of our officers, and this network demonstrates how we can work together to provide proactive programs, innovative resources, and cutting-edge technology to support and advance our law enforcement personnel.

    We must continue working toward a time when all people respect and understand the important work that law enforcement officers do.  Unfortunately, our law enforcement officers do not always receive the respect they deserve.  These brave men and women must operate in an environment where their moral and legal authority is constantly being scrutinized, and they undertake the critical yet difficult task of addressing the actions of those affected by addiction, homelessness, and mental illness.  Their ability to work well in the face of these and other challenges is extraordinary, and we have incredible appreciation for their public service and selflessness.

    On behalf of our grateful Nation, we proudly recognize the more than 900,000 sworn members of law enforcement for their resolve and dedication in the face of dangerous uncertainty.  The thoughts and prayers of our Nation are with them and their families, and we will always owe them our appreciation and support.

    By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (Public Law 87-726, 76 Stat. 676), and by section 1 of Public Law 105-225 (36 U.S.C. 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as “Peace Officers Memorial Day” and the week in which it falls as “Police Week.”

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2020, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 10 through May 16, 2020, as Police Week.  In honor of our hardworking law enforcement officers, Melania and I will light the White House in blue on May 15, 2020.  I call upon all Americans to observe Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.  I also call on the Governors of the States and Territories and officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day.  I further encourage all Americans to display the flag from their homes and businesses on that day.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fourth.

     DONALD J. TRUMP

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Pence going to Colorado for Air Force Academy graduation

    Pence going to Colorado for Air Force Academy graduation

    Vice President Mike Pence will travel to the Air Force Academy for its pared down commencement ceremony Saturday to address graduating cadets in person, not by video as originally planned.

    Pence’s office announced his travel plans Tuesday and said additional details would be released later.

    The event usually attracts a big crowd to Falcon Stadium and ends with a traditional aerobatics demonstration by the Air Force Thunderbirds. Because of the coronavirus outbreak, the academy is closed to visitors and no spectators, including family, will be allowed at this year’s ceremony, which will only last about 30 minutes.

    The Thunderbirds will only perform a flyover. Cadets will march 6 feet (1.8 meters) apart and sit 8 feet (2.4 meters) apart during the event.

    Cadets will not march up to receive their diplomas and the typical high-fives and hugs are banned, The Gazette reported.

    Lower classes were sent home to take online classes because of the outbreak. Seniors remained but the date of their graduation was moved up.

    The academy initially announced last week that Secretary of the Air Force Secretary Barbara Barrett would address the cadets in person and that there would be a video message from Pence.

     

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Bennet, Colleagues Call for Increased Lifeline Funding to Keep Americans Connected During Pandemic

    Bennet, Colleagues Call for Increased Lifeline Funding to Keep Americans Connected During Pandemic

    Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined 26 senators in calling on Congressional leadership to commit at least $1 billion in funding for the Lifeline program in future Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) relief in order to meet the connectivity needs of Americans. Since 1985, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)’s Lifeline program has made basic internet and telephone service more affordable for low-income Americans.

     “The Coronavirus and resulting public safety measures taken by states, municipalities, and vigilant citizens are a resounding demonstration of the importance of Lifeline and other FCC universal service programs,” wrote Bennet and the senators in the letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). “Already, Lifeline provides millions of Americans with essential connections by providing free or discounted broadband and voice services. This meaningful assistance is needed now more than ever. Social distancing, school closures, layoffs, and shelter-in-place rules have spurred a dramatic new reliance on telework, distance education, online employment, and telehealth. No one should have to put their health at risk, lose employment, lose access to education, or face isolation because they cannot afford broadband.”

     With tens of millions of Americans now working from home, attending school virtually, and using telehealth services, Bennet and the senators emphasized the critical need for additional funding to improve the program’s level of service, to expand the choice of eligible broadband providers, and to meet surging demand.

     Recently, Bennet and his colleagues wrote letters to both the Federal Communications Commission and Senate leaders calling for immediate action to help students access the technology they need to learn remotely. In March, Bennet and his colleagues also wrote to the Federal Communications Commission to ensure Americans are not disconnected from the Lifeline program during the coronavirus outbreak. Bennet also called on the nation’s top internet service providers to take extraordinary measures to maintain and expand online connectivity during the pandemic for students and families. 

     In addition to Bennet, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Kamala Harris (D-Calif.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), and Ben Cardin (D-Md.).

     The text of the letter is available HERE and below.  

     Dear Leader McConnell, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer, and Leader McCarthy:

    We write to urge you to consider the pressing needs of the Lifeline assistance program during the Coronavirus pandemic in any future relief package. As Americans face new financial hardships, turn to distance learning, attend religious services virtually, and are required to telework, access to fast, robust, and reliable home internet and telephone services is essential for their economic, social, and civic wellbeing. Congress should provide the dedicated funding necessary to meet the urgent increase in demand for Lifeline assistance and keep tens of millions of Americans connected.

     The Coronavirus and resulting public safety measures taken by states, municipalities, and vigilant citizens are a resounding demonstration of the importance of Lifeline and other FCC universal service programs. Already, Lifeline provides millions of Americans with essential connections by providing free or discounted broadband and voice services. This meaningful assistance is needed now more than ever. Social distancing, school closures, layoffs, and shelter-in-place rules have spurred a dramatic new reliance on telework, distance education, online employment, and telehealth. No one should have to put their health at risk, lose employment, lose access to education, or face isolation because they cannot afford broadband.

     We request that you include at least $1 billion in funding for the Lifeline program in order to meet the fundamental connectivity needs of tens of millions of Americans. Currently, the FCC sets a minimum Lifeline service standard for mobile carriers of 1,000 voice minutes and 3 Gb of data on 3G connections – service plans that resemble 2010, not 2020. The current baseline is woefully insufficient to last a few days for students taking online courses or families using video chat services, let alone for a full month in times of isolation. Moreover, as physicians turn to telehealth to protect patients and ensure continued care, better access is becoming more important for more communities. Increased funding would allow for a better reimbursement rate and other support that would secure the levels of service needed for modern applications.

     Further funding would also enable the FCC to expand the choice of eligible broadband providers, at least on a temporary basis during this health crisis and the economic recovery from it. That should mean opening up the program to other broadband providers and also allowing for more mobile hotspot coverage. While Congress made some limited progress in securing funding to improve infrastructure for rural communities, including in the CARES package, affordable connections for urban and suburban communities have been left out of these efforts. For far too many the insurmountable barrier is price, not availability. By allowing Lifeline subscribers to take their discount to residential broadband providers and others, Congress could open up much-needed competition, providing choice and improving outcomes for subscribers.

     Finally, Lifeline will need to meet an anticipated surge of demand. With sudden business closures, reduced hours, and new financial pressures, millions more Americans will qualify for assistance and need this vital help. We are concerned that without the additional funding requested above, the Lifeline program does not have the financial resources to equitably support even a moderate but prolonged increase in demand, in response to an economic downturn. The FCC should also have resources necessary to advertise Lifeline, as well as exercise its authority to ensure Lifeline providers aggressively advertise their Lifeline offerings. Funding can also improve the application process, including better oversight of the program and, importantly, streamlining the application process for those falling on hard times. Americans must know that help is available and be able to access that assistance.

     We urge you to provide additional funding for the Lifeline program in any future Coronavirus relief packages to ensure that Americans can continue to depend on critical assistance when they need it. As our financial, educational, social, civic, and healthcare needs become more dependent on the internet during this crisis, Congress must commit to ensuring that no one loses connectivity. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

    image credit: MGN Online

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Bennet Denounces Firing of Lead Oversight Official for $2.2 Trillion CARES Act, Calls for Stronger Accountability and Transparency

    Bennet Denounces Firing of Lead Oversight Official for $2.2 Trillion CARES Act, Calls for Stronger Accountability and Transparency

    Denver – Today, Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet wrote to President Donald Trump to condemn his firing of Glenn Fine, the Department of Defense’s Acting Inspector General, effectively blocking his service as incoming chair of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC). Congress created the PRAC to strengthen transparency and oversight of the $2.2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the largest emergency spending bill in U.S. history.

     Your decision to remove Mr. Fine…sent a clear and chilling message across government: Those who raise fact-based concerns and truths within the administration will be silenced,” wrote Bennet in the letter to President Trump. “We cannot think of a message more at war with America’s commitment to the rule of law and our constitutional checks and balances. Your decisions risk lasting damage, not only to the proper implementation of the largest emergency spending bill in U.S. history, but to the confidence of the American people in our government.”

    Last week, Congress learned that the president had fired Glenn Fine as the Department of Defense’s Acting Inspector General. Mr. Fine had been chosen to lead the PRAC by a consensus of inspectors general across the federal government, as required by the CARES Act. As Inspector General for the Department of Justice from 2000 to 2010 and Acting Inspector General for the Department of Defense from 2016 to 2020, Mr. Fine developed a bipartisan reputation for integrity and independence. Over his career, he led large, complex, and controversial investigations that exposed, among other things, violations of civil liberties and ethics at the Department of Justice. He was the longest-serving inspector general in the Department’s history.

    President Trump’s firing of Mr. Fine came on the heels of his decision to remove the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community and to criticize the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services over their report on testing shortages. It also followed the president’s statement after signing the CARES Act that risked hindering the PRAC’s ability to share timely information with Congress required for proper oversight of the massive emergency legislation.

     The text of the letter is available HERE and below. 

     Dear Mr. President:

     I write to express profound concern about your removal of the Department of Defense’s Acting Inspector General, Glenn Fine, effectively blocking his service as incoming chair of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC). I urge you to reinstate him and do everything in your power to subject the new authorities in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to the highest degree of scrutiny and oversight.

     Congress established the PRAC to promote transparency and accountability for the $2.2 trillion CARES Act, the largest emergency spending bill in American history. This unprecedented level of funding, combined with the need to rapidly deliver said funds to those in need, raises obvious risks of waste, fraud, abuse, and favoritism. Rigorous and independent oversight is therefore essential to giving the American people confidence that their money is supporting a broad economic recovery by going to workers, families, small businesses, and historically overlooked communities in need, instead of the politically-connected. That is why Congress created the PRAC.

     Mr. Fine was ideally suited to lead the PRAC. Before his termination, Mr. Fine brought to the position impeccable credentials and a distinguished career serving administrations of both parties. As Inspector General for the Department of Justice from 2000 to 2010 and Acting Inspector General for the Department of Defense from 2016 to 2020, Mr. Fine developed a bipartisan reputation for integrity and independence. Over his career, he led large, complex, and controversial investigations that exposed, among other things, violations of civil liberties and ethics at the Department of Justice. It is one reason he was the longest-serving inspector general in the Department’s history.

     As with any oversight role, leadership of the PRAC is especially susceptible to undue influence – a concern made especially salient given the Administration’s record of withholding taxpayer funds to advance personal, political goals. Mr. Fine’s experience underscored his ability to manage investigations without succumbing to political pressure. It is why a consensus of federal inspectors general selected him for the position, as required by law.

     Your decision to remove Mr. Fine, which came on the heels of decisions to remove the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community and to criticize the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services over their report on testing shortages, sent a clear and chilling message across government: Those who raise fact-based concerns and truths within the administration will be silenced.

     We cannot think of a message more at war with America’s commitment to the rule of law and our constitutional checks and balances. Your decisions risk lasting damage, not only to the proper implementation of the largest emergency spending bill in U.S. history, but to the confidence of the American people in our government. To make matters worse, your statement after signing the CARES Act risks hindering the PRAC’s ability to share timely information with Congress required for proper oversight.

     We urge you to reinstate Mr. Fine, safeguard the PRAC’s independence, and subject implementation of the CARES Act to the highest degree of scrutiny and oversight.

     Sincerely,

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • ACEP Stands in Solidarity with Emergency Physician in COVID-19 Related Custody Dispute

    ACEP Stands in Solidarity with Emergency Physician in COVID-19 Related Custody Dispute

    In response to news reports that an emergency physician has temporarily lost custody of her child because of her job on the frontlines of the COVID-19 crisis, the president of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), William Jaquis, MD, FACEP, released the following statement:

    “It is unconscionable to force Dr. Theresa Greene or any emergency physician to choose between their family and their oath to their patients. These are scary and uncertain times, but emergency physicians are expertly trained in how to protect themselves and their families during a pandemic like COVID-19.

    “ACEP stands in solidarity with Dr. Greene and any health worker who is in this heartbreaking position. On behalf of all our members, we have released an official statement urging that a parent’s role in the fight against COVID-19 not be a factor when considering child custody or visitation matters.

    “Emergency physicians, along with emergency nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses and others, are leading the battle against the public health crisis of our lifetime. But they are also human beings, who need and deserve the comfort of their families when they are off duty.”

    The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) is the national medical society representing emergency medicine. Through continuing education, research, public education and advocacy, ACEP advances emergency care on behalf of its 39,000 emergency physician members, and the more than 150 million Americans they treat on an annual basis. For more information, visit www.acep.org and www.emergencyphysicians.org. 

    Photo credit: MGN online

     

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • When what-if scenarios turn real: CSU pandemic modeler provides COVID-19 insights on health care workers

    When what-if scenarios turn real: CSU pandemic modeler provides COVID-19 insights on health care workers

    As a Yale University postdoctoral researcher, economist Jude Bayham studied the potential consequences of a global pandemic that could shutter schools, close businesses, and strain hospitals.

    That was back in 2013.

    Now, as the world grapples with the coronavirus, the Colorado State University economist and a multi-institutional team are turning those prescient modeling exercises into real insights for policymakers.

    “We’re repurposing models we had done a while back that frankly at the time, people didn’t really care about,” said Bayham, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics. “It’s an ‘I told you so’ moment. I’m not happy about it. It’s unfortunate.”

    In the last several weeks, Bayham and Yale collaborator Eli Fenichel have run a series of analyses illustrating the toll that long-term school closures may have on U.S. health care providers. They’re now fielding inquiries from all over the world, from state governments to child care needs assessment professionals, who think the economists’ work could help them navigate the here and now. In the last two weeks, the researchers created an interactive dashboard for drilling down statistics on child care needs by state, city and industry sector. Their data were published in The Lancet Public Health.

    Bayham and Fenichel have also created another dashboard for viewing COVID-19 complication risk factors in the workforce.

    A third of health workers care for young children

    For their health care worker analysis, the researchers used data from the U.S. Current Population Survey to show that about a third of health care workers – doctors, nurses, hospital staff – care for children ages 3-12. Fifteen percent of those households don’t have other adults or older children who can help with child care.

    At the time they did their original analysis, a long-term school closure was a far-off hypothetical. Now, as school districts nationwide shutter for weeks or months, Bayham’s work of yore takes on new significance, and the team is scrambling to update it with current figures.

    School closures are intended to slow the transmission of the virus. But Bayham and Fenichel find that the toll school closures take on health care workers could potentially negate any mortality benefits from the closures. Their calculations indicate that if the health care workforce declines by 15 percent, due to the workers now having to care for their children, it could lead to an increase in coronavirus deaths, because the workers aren’t there to care for sick people. Specifically, they report that assuming a 15 percent loss of the health care labor force, a coronavirus infection mortality rate increase of just 0.35 percentage points would net a greater number of deaths than would be prevented by the closures.

    These calculations are just that – calculations, which don’t take into account, for example, the potential rollout of state or federal programs to offer child care relief to workers. And the estimates aren’t perfect; the researchers don’t claim to know, down to a precise number, what one health care worker’s absence portends.

    “We don’t know, in terms of a productivity measure, the estimate of one nurse saving this many lives or reducing mortality,” Bayham said. “But we think it’s not zero. So essentially we are getting at how productive they need to be for us to be concerned about how school closures would undermine the goal of saving lives.”

    The work is a sobering reminder of the societal and public-health tradeoffs of large-scale disruptions like long-term school closures.

    Forming networks

    As the pandemic continues to unfold, Bayham and colleagues at Yale, Northwestern University and other institutions have quickly formed a network of economists and epidemiologists to continue this and other lines of work. They hope to help inform decisionmakers on questions not only of tradeoffs of school closures, but also, strategies for peeling back such restrictive measures when the time is right.

    As researchers all over the world converge their expertise around the pandemic, Bayham and colleagues are also jumping into other projects to help. For example, Bayham is serving on a U.S. Forest Service task force that will examine potential outcomes of coronavirus on firefighters as fire season returns.

    And along with CSU colleagues Becca Jablonski, Dawn Thilmany, Rebecca Cleary, Rebecca Hill, Alexandra Hill, Laura Bellows, Bob Delmore and Michael Carolan, Bayham is also serving on a Colorado Department of Agriculture-focused task force looking at effects of social distancing measures on food supply chain issues. CSU’s vice president for engagement and extension, Blake Naughton, established the CSU Task Force on Colorado Food Supply to conduct research on several key areas: food access and security; designating food retail establishments as “essential services;” food supply chain workforce readiness; and consumer expenditure and farm market access.  

  • USDA Implements Immediate Measures to Help Rural Residents, Businesses and Communities Affected by COVID-19

    USDA Implements Immediate Measures to Help Rural Residents, Businesses and Communities Affected by COVID-19

    WASHINGTON, March 25, 2020 – USDA Rural Development has taken a number of immediate actions to help rural residents, businesses and communities affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. Rural Development will keep our customers, partners, and stakeholders continuously updated as more actions are taken to better serve rural America.

    OPPORTUNITIES FOR IMMEDIATE RELIEF

    Rural Housing Service

    Single-Family Housing

    Effective March 19, borrowers with USDA single-family housing Direct and Guaranteed loans are subject to a moratorium on foreclosure and eviction for a period of 60 days. This action applies to the initiation of foreclosures and evictions and to the completion of foreclosures and evictions in process.

    Guaranteed Loan Program:

    Direct Loan Program:

    • USDA has waived or relaxed certain parts of the application process for Single-Family Housing Direct Loans, including site assessments, and has extended the time period that certificates of eligibility are valid.
    • A Direct Loan borrower who is experiencing a reduction of income by more than 10 percent can request a Payment Assistance package to see if he/she is eligible for payment assistance or for more assistance than currently received.
    • Moratorium Assistance is available for Direct Loan borrowers experiencing medical bill expenses (not covered by insurance) or job loss because of COVID-19. Qualifying borrowers can receive a moratorium on house payments for a period of time, repaid at a later date.
    • Direct Loan questions should be directed to USDA’s Customer Service Center at 800-414-1226 (7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Eastern Time Monday-Friday) or https://www.rd.usda.gov/contact-us/loan-servicing. Call volume and wait times are high at this time.

    Multi-Family Housing

    Multi-Family Housing is taking several steps to help owners, management agents and tenants maintain quality housing during the COVID-19 outbreak. Specifically, three immediate steps are effective for Section 515 Multi-Family properties:

    • Tenant certifications due March 31, April 30 and May 31 for Multi-Family properties have been extended to June 30 with no late fees or overage charges, as allowed in Multi-Family guidance (HB-3-3560, Chapter 4, Section 4.11). This extension will allow for additional time to complete needed certifications while avoiding face-to-face meetings as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
    • Late fees on Section 515 mortgages will be waived, subject to waiver authority in 7 CFR 3560.403 (c)(3).
    • Section 515 Annual Financial Statements due March 31 will be extended 30 days, as per Multi-Family guidance (HB-2-3560 Chapter 4, Section 4.16-H). USDA is exploring whether a longer extension is appropriate and will provide further guidance. 
    • Current policy states that owners must process an interim recertification at the tenant’s request if there is a change in income of $50 or more per month. The owner should already have this policy in writing and apply it consistently. To the maximum extent possible, we encourage all owners to work with all tenants with impacted income to adjust rent payments.
    • USDA encourages all owners to work with impacted residents and families to adjust rent payments, enter into forbearance agreements, and lessen the impact on affected residents. At this time, no additional subsidy funding has been made available. If borrowers are temporarily unable to make loan payments, the Agency may waive late fees and enter into an official workout plan.

    Rural Utilities Service

    Rural Business-Cooperative Service

    • Beginning immediately, through July 31, 2020, USDA Business and Industry Loan Guarantees (B&I) and Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Guaranteed lenders may assist borrowers experiencing temporary cash flow issues by deferring payments for a period no longer than 120 days. The lender must notify The Agency in writing of any payment deferments. Written notification to the Agency will meet the standard for concurrence until July 31, 2020. A response from the Agency is not required. This guidance applies to ALL borrowers that had a current repayment status as of March 1, 2020.
      • If the guaranteed loan has been sold on the secondary market, the secondary market holder and lender must agree to the deferment actions being taken. The Agency will expect a written agreement from both parties in these instances. 
    • RBCS intermediary borrowers continue to have authority to service loan portfolios independent of USDA. Intermediary borrowers participating in these programs may approve loan payment deferrals may to their borrowers without USDA approval. These programs are:
      • Intermediary Relending Program (IRP)
      • Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG)
      • Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDL and REDG)
      • Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (RMAP)
    • For existing Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) and Rural Economic Development Loan (REDL) borrowers, the Agency is committed to maintaining well-capitalized intermediary lenders and will work with you on loan servicing requests on a case-by-case basis to make sure you remain a pillar in our rural business communities.

    EXTENSION OF APPLICATION DEADLINES

    USDA is extending the application window for the following programs:

    Rural Business-Cooperative Service

    • USDA extended the application deadline for the Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) program to no later than April 15, 2020. Contact the Rural Development office for the deadline in your state. USDA announced the extension in an Unnumbered Letter posted March 19, 2020.
    • USDA extended the application deadline for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) to April 15, 2020. For additional information, see page 16925 of the March 25, 2020, Federal Register.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • Colorado Delegation Calls on Federal Health Agency to Grant Colorado More Flexibility to Respond to Coronavirus Pandemic

    Colorado Delegation Calls on Federal Health Agency to Grant Colorado More Flexibility to Respond to Coronavirus Pandemic

    Delegation Letter Supports State of Colorado’s Application for 1135 Waiver from HHS  

     Washington, D.C. – Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D) and Cory Gardner (R), along with Colorado U.S. Representatives Diana DeGette (D), Joe Neguse (D), Scott Tipton (R), Ken Buck (R), Doug Lamborn (R), Jason Crow (D), and Ed Perlmutter (D), requested the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) waive certain requirements hampering the State of Colorado’s efforts to provide much-needed care to Coloradans during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In their letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar, the lawmakers requested a swift review of the state’s application for an 1135 waiver, which would provide Colorado’s Medicaid program more flexibility to serve Coloradans during this turbulent period.

     The lawmakers’ letter follows an announcement on Monday from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services that it will grant 11 other states 1135 waivers.

     “On March 24, the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, the State’s Single State Medicaid agency, submitted an 1135 waiver, designed to reduce administrative burdens on: clients seeking access to care; on the state’s Medicaid program; and, on providers seeking to participate in Medicaid,” wrote Bennet and the lawmakers. “This three-pronged approach will free up valuable state resources during a time when, more than ever, Coloradans need seamless access to care and the state needs to devote as many resources as possible to the COVID-19 response.”

     “On behalf of our constituents, we urge HHS to complete full and fair consideration of Colorado’s 1135 waiver application in the most expeditious manner possible,” concluded the lawmakers.

     The text of the letter is available HERE and below. 

     Dear Secretary Azar:

     We write to request the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to give its quick, fair, and full consideration to Colorado’s application for a waiver under Section 1135 of the Social Security Act, which the state submitted today, March 24, 2020 [see attachment].

     On March 5, 2020, the first Colorado patient tested presumptive positive for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), now a global pandemic. On March 10, Governor Jared Polis declared a state of emergency. As of this morning on March 24, Colorado had 720 COVID-19 cases in 31 of its 64 counties, 72 hospitalizations, seven deaths, and five outbreaks at residential and non-residential health care facilities.

     Governor Polis, working with state agencies, has expeditiously deployed resources across the state to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Colorado has developed and implemented innovative approaches to addressing the increasing demands on state and private resources, including working with private business to address the personal protective equipment shortage, issuing Executive Orders to stop the spread of the disease, and implementing numerous measures to increase access to care, including through telehealth.

     On March 24, the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing, the State’s Single State Medicaid agency, submitted an 1135 waiver, designed to reduce administrative burdens on: clients seeking access to care; on the state’s Medicaid program; and, on providers seeking to participate in Medicaid. This three-pronged approach will free up valuable state resources during a time when, more than ever, Coloradans need seamless access to care and the state needs to devote as many resources as possible to the COVID-19 response.

     We fully support quick consideration of Colorado’s 1135 waiver application, including both the check list of flexibilities under numbers 1 through 5 and the additional flexibilities under “Number 6 – Other Section 1135 Waiver Flexibilities,” to ensure they have the flexibility they need to effectively combat COVID-19.

     On behalf of our constituents, we urge HHS to complete full and fair consideration of Colorado’s 1135 waiver application in the most expeditious manner possible.

    photo credit: MGN online

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • State health department begins to distribute resources from Strategic National Stockpile

    State health department begins to distribute resources from Strategic National Stockpile

    The Colorado State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) are now shipping supplies from the Strategic National Stockpile across Colorado to help communities respond to COVID-19. 

    The Strategic National Stockpile is “the nation’s largest supply of potentially life-saving pharmaceuticals and medical supplies for use in a public health emergency severe enough to cause local supplies to run out.” Colorado received the following materials:

    49,200 N95 masks

    115,000 surgical masks

    21,420 surgical gowns 

    21,800 face shields

    84 coveralls

    CDPHE estimates that these supplies are sufficient for approximately one full day of statewide operations.

    The State Unified Command Group, which is part of the EOC, will distribute these materials to every county health department and tribe throughout the state where they are needed most. The following factors were used to determine allocation:

    county population

    portion of the population that is older than age 65 proportional to the state population

    the number of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and hospitals

    if the county or tribe has received supplies previously All county health departments and tribes in the state will receive supplies. CDPHE will work with regional staff to coordinate deliveries.

    “We are relieved that we have finally received materials from the Strategic National Stockpile, but it’s not nearly enough,” said Scott Bookman, COVID Incident Commander, CDPHE. “We’re going to need more supplies and are grateful to all our partners across the state who are donating supplies and stepping up to help Colorado meet the demand.”

    There are many ways people can contribute to these efforts:

    The State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is coordinating requests for supplies and donations of supplies, as well as trained medical personnel. Please follow the three steps on the Colorado Business EOC website [colorado.gov/cobeoc/business-members-and-vendors] to create an account in the state resource database. The State EOC uses this database to fill all resource requests from state and local agencies during emergencies.

    Coloradans who wish to donate or volunteer to help those affected by COVID-19 should visit www.helpcoloradonow.com.

    There is an urgent need for blood. Go to vitalent.org to sign up to donate blood. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is meant for single-use and is recommended by the CDC to be used for COVID-19 testing. In order to preserve these important resources for critical health care needs, CDPHE is urging the public to not wait for a test to self-isolate. People who are not at high risk of severe illness may not need to be evaluated in person or tested for COVID-19. Not everyone with symptoms will be tested right away. Call your health care provider only if your illness becomes more severe, especially if you are experiencing shortness of breath. 

    If you have any symptoms — even mild ones — public health urges you to stay home and isolate yourself until: 

    You have had no fever for at least 72 hours (without the use of medicine) AND

    Other symptoms (cough, shortness of breath) have improved AND

    At least 7 days have passed since your symptoms first appeared.

    Anyone in your household you have had close contact with (within six feet for approximately 10 minutes) should self-quarantine for 14 days, even if you haven’t been tested for COVID-19.

    If you have a medical emergency, call 911. If you have severe respiratory symptoms, especially shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, tell the 911 dispatcher about your symptoms. Do not wait for a COVID-19 test to call 911. Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US

     

  • State health department calls on people, especially those who think they might have the illness, to self-isolate

    State health department calls on people, especially those who think they might have the illness, to self-isolate

    Close contacts of sick people should self-quarantine  

    DENVER, March 19, 2020: The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is urging self-isolation or self-quarantine for Coloradans and visitors to Colorado.

    Self-isolation applies to people who: • Have a positive COVID-19 test.

    • Have symptoms of COVID-19 (coughing, shortness of breath and/or fever).
    • Are getting ill and think they might have COVID-19. Symptoms, especially early on, may be very mild and feel like a common cold. Symptoms could include a combination of cough, body aches, fatigue, and chest tightness. Some people may not develop fever or fever may not appear until several days into the illness. Self-quarantine applies to: •People who are close contacts of a person who either has a positive test or symptoms —  even early symptoms — of illness.

    “Right now not everyone who has been exposed to or becomes ill with COVID-19 will be able to or need to have a test to confirm whether or not they have the illness,” said Dr. Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist, CDPHE, “but isolation and quarantine, even without test results, is what people must do to slow the spread of this illness in our state. Even people who feel mild illness, and aren’t sure, should follow self-isolation orders, and their contacts should follow self-quarantine orders.”

    Self-isolation is for people who have symptoms of COVID-19 and means staying away from others until 7 days have passed since the symptoms began and until any fever has been gone for 72 hours and all other symptoms are improving.

    Self-quarantine is for people who don’t have symptoms but are close contacts of people who have symptoms. It means staying away from others for 14 days to see if one becomes ill. People who become ill with COVID-19 symptoms (even early symptoms) while self-quarantining then start the self-isolation period.

    CDPHE has put together how-tos for people who are self-isolating and self-quarantining. They are available at covid19.colorado.gov/isolation-and-quarantine.

    “We’re calling on all people in Colorado now to take personal responsibility and self-quarantine and self-isolate in order to protect people and our health care system,” said Jill Hunsaker Ryan, executive director, CDPHE, “and we are counting on everyone, including the media to share this information quickly and responsibly.”

    Increasingly, cities and counties, including some in Colorado, are issuing stricter social distancing orders than those that currently are in place in Colorado. The stricter orders mean everyone must stay home, except for certain essential activities. The terms of such orders could vary by location. More restrictive orders are a more aggressive approach intended to enforce social distancing and keep people at home to limit disease spread.

    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

     

    El Departamento de Salud y Medio Ambiente de Colorado pide a la población, especialmente a aquellos que podrían tener la enfermedad, a auto-aislarse.

    Los contactos cercanos de estas personas enfermas, deben de estar en auto-cuarentena.

    DENVER, marzo 19, 2020: El Departamento de Salud Pública y Medio Ambiente del Estado de Colorado (CDPHE) urge a auto-asilarse o ponerse en auto-cuarentena a todos los habitantes de Colorado y a sus visitantes.

    El auto-aislamiento incluye a las personas que:

    • Hayan dado resultado positivo a la prueba del COVID-19.

    • Presenten síntomas del COVID-19 (tos, dificultad de respirar y/o fiebre).

    • Se están enfermando y sospechen que pueden tener el COVID-19. Los síntomas, especialmente al inicio, pueden ser muy leves y pueden sentirse como un resfriado común. Los síntomas pueden incluir una combinación de tos, dolores de cuerpo, fatiga y rigidez en el pecho. Algunas personas pueden no presentar síntomas hasta varios días después de estar enfermos.

     La auto-cuarentena incluye a:

    • Personas que estén en contacto cercano con una persona que ha resultado positivo a la prueba, o con síntomas — aún síntomas leves — de la enfermedad.

     “Ahora mismo cualquier persona que haya sido expuesta o se haya enfermado con el COVID-19 podrá o necesitará llevar a cabo una prueba para confirmar si tiene o no la enfermedad,” dijo la Dra. Rachel Herlihy, epidemióloga del estado, “pero el aislamiento y la cuarentena, aún sin los resultados, es lo que las personas deben hacer para disminuir la propagación de la enfermedad en nuestro estado. Aún las personas que sientan una leve enfermedad, y no estén seguros de tenerla, deben seguir la instrucción de un auto-aislamiento y sus contactos deben seguir la instrucción de la auto-cuarentena”.

     El auto-aislamiento es para las personas que tengan síntomas del COVID-19 y significa estar lejos de los demás hasta que 7 días hayan pasado desde que los síntomas hayan comenzado y hasta que la fiebre haya desaparecido por 72 horas y todos los demás síntomas hayan mejorado.

     La auto-cuarentena es para las personas que no tienen síntomas pero que estuvieron en contacto con personas que tienen síntomas. Significa estar lejos de los demás por 14 días para ver si se presenta la enfermedad.  Personas que se enfermen con COVID-19 (aún primeros síntomas) mientras estén en auto-cuarentena, deben comenzar el periodo de auto-aislamiento.

     El CDPHE ha puesto una serie de procedimientos para personas que estén en auto-aislamiento y auto-cuarentena. Estos están disponibles en covid19.colorado.gov/isolation-and-quarantine.

     “Le estamos haciendo un llamado a toda la población de Colorado para que tomen la responsabilidad y se auto-aíslen y se pongan en auto-cuarentena para proteger a las personas y a nuestro sistema de salud,” dijo Jill Hunsaker Ryan, directora ejecutiva del CDPHE, “ y estamos contando con todos, incluyendo los medios de comunicación para que compartan esta información rápidamente y con responsabilidad”.

     Algunas ciudades y condados, incluyendo algunos en Colorado, han realizado órdenes de distancia social más estrictas que las actuales en Colorado. Órdenes más estrictas significa que todos deben quedarse en casa, excepto para algunas actividades esenciales. Los términos de estas órdenes pueden variar de lugar a lugar.  Órdenes más estrictas son medidas más agresivas destinadas a hacer obligatorio la distancia social y mantener a las personas en casa para limitar la propagación de la enfermedad.

     Actualizaciones en: covid19.colorado.gov.

     

    SPREAD THE NEWS

    COMMENT, Like, Follow & SHARE @I70Scout

    CURRENT EDITION

    WEATHER & TRAFFIC    PUZZLES    RECENT NEWS    ADVERTISE WITH US