Weekly Update | March 8, 2020
Preventing, Treating, & Researching Coronavirus
According to the CDC, the risk of contracting Coronavirus remains low among most Americans, but it's important to understand the precautions to take, what the symptoms are, and what to do if you're sick.

Make sure to visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html to get the facts.

I'm working to ensure our local health professionals have what they need to fight Coronavirus.
Last week, Congress came together quickly and in a bipartisan way to pass a major package to help our local health professionals prevent, treat, and research a vaccine for the Coronavirus. CLICK HERE to get the details.
On Friday, I held a listening session with local health experts from hospitals, public health departments, and long-term care facilities about what they are doing to contain the illness and also ensure they are getting the necessary resources and information from the federal government. Additionally, we heard from some of the local universities about what they're doing to prepare students.

They've assured me that communication from the CDC has improved from previous infectious disease outbreaks, such as the Ebola, but warned that running out of resources could be an issue in the future. That is something I will work to prevent in Washington.

More Updates
Meeting with the Springfield YMCA in Washington, DC
Proud to support the S pringfield YMCA by leading a letter to fund Child Care & Development Block Grants. Helping parents afford quality child care is critical to our workforce. Thank you to Jill Steiner & Blake Fairchild with Springfield & Mattoon YMCAs for your advocacy work.
Encouraging Reading
‪ Each year, I partner with the National Education Association (NEA) and the Illinois Education Association (IEA) to celebrate Dr. Suess' birthday and Read Across America, which encourages reading among children. This year, I read 'House Mouse, Senate Mouse' to students at Feitshans Academy in Springfield to celebrate.

My wife Shannon and I read to our three kids nearly every night when they were younger – being able to recite some of their favorite books by heart. By encouraging a love for reading, we can help children learn and further their education.

Combating Anti-Semitism & Supporting Israel
Great meeting with members of AIPAC , including students from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. We had a good discussion about working together to stop all forms of anti-semitism and supporting Israel.
Constituent Service Spotlight
Helping Constituents Cut Through Red Tape in Urbana, IL
“Your office responds quickly and has a deep understanding of immigration issues with USCIS. I have had experience with other congressional offices and I can testify that your work ethic and level is nowhere to be found.”

- Ali in Urbana, IL