Governor Whitmer has ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and upon all public buildings and grounds across the State of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff today, March 10, to honor those who lost their lives to COVID-19 on this, the one-year anniversary of COVID in Michigan.

Following passage by both the House and Senate, the American Rescue Plan went to President Biden for his signature today. He plans to sign the $1.86 trillion COVID-19 relief legislation on Friday, March 12 prior to the lapse of enhanced unemployment benefits on Sunday.

The legislation offers direct payments of up to $1,400 to millions of households, extends $300 unemployment supplements through Labor Day, includes state and local government aid, and money to help schools open and bolster vaccine distribution efforts.

In addition, the package expands the Earned Income Tax Credit for working families, increases the child tax credit, provides support for small and mid-sized businesses, including a dedicated restaurant relief fund, and more.

Saginaw County Health Department Extends Vaccine Registration to Ages 50+

MySaginawHealth.org provides a new registration tool for adults 50+. Unveiled yesterday afternoon, the Saginaw County Health Department's new registration tool at mySaginawHealth.org is now active for adults 50+ and caregivers/guardians of special needs children to register for the COVID-19 vaccine. Within weeks, this tool will have a self-scheduling component which was already in development before the state's decision to open eligibility to adults 50+. 

This new, improved process and is touted for its potential to free up staff and volunteer time and for automating the task of getting residents into clinics quickly and efficiently.