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5/5/2020

Roadmap to Reopen Indiana by July 4, 2020

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Eric J. Holcomb, Governor of Indiana, announces his plans to reopen the State of Indiana with a 5 stage plan targeting a complete opening of the state by July 4th.
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Expected Start Dates of the Plan
  • May 1st - Stage 1
  • May 4th - Stage 2
  • May 24th - Stage 3
  • June 14th - Stage 4
  • July 4th - Stage 5

Executive Order 20-26
The order will cover the following areas with directives for Hoosiers, Businesses and Government. Read the full order by clicking here. 

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Photo Credit: courierpress.com

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3/30/2020

For Immediate Release: Senator Braun's Guides to Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act

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​On Behalf Of Senator Mike Braun Press Office
​

Support guides for small businesses, employees,
non-profit organizations, and Veterans.


JASPER, IN – 
Today, U.S. Senator Mike Braun released a number of resource guides regarding the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act that will help Hoosiers navigate through the coronavirus.

“My staff and I are here to help Hoosiers, and these guides will help small-business owners, non-profit organizations, veterans, students, and employees across the state navigate the federal response to the coronavirus.  Again, it’s very important for Hoosiers to wash their hands, limit their time in public, help their neighbors, and together we will defeat the coronavirus."
​

Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: Affected Business and Employee Resource Guide
  • The resources contained within this document are a culmination of state and federal efforts to combat the economic crisis created by the public health battle being waged against the novel coronavirus. For help on any issues related to COVID-19 please contact my office using CoronavirusHelp@braun.senate.gov.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: Support for Non-Profit Organizations
  • The CARES Act provides non-profit organizations assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic primarily in two ways: provides support to certain nonprofit employers, and incentivizes charitable contributions.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: About The Paycheck Protection Program
  • The CARES Act creates a Paycheck Protection Program for small employers, self-employed individuals, and “gig economy” workers, appropriating nearly $350 billion to mitigate challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. 
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: Defense-Related Provisions
  • The CARES Act includes $10.5 billion for the Department of Defense to support the military’s response to the Coronavirus and ensure we protect our forces during this vulnerable time in our history. Notable appropriations are listed below.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: About Direct Support Payments to Americans
  • Who is eligible for a recovery rebate? All U.S. residents with adjusted gross income under $75,000 ($112,500 for head of household and $150,000 married), who are not the dependent of another taxpayer and have a work-eligible Social Security Number, are eligible for the full $1,200 ($2,400 married) rebate. They are also eligible for an additional $500 per child. A typical family of four is eligible for a $3,400 recovery rebate.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: Education-Related Provisions
  • Stipulates that borrowers will not accumulate interest on student loans for three months, and do not have to make payments on those loans.
Congressional Response to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak: Health Care Systems, Treatments & Vaccines
  • Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act (Phase 1): On March 6, 2020, President Trump signed into law an $8.3 billion in emergency funding to combat COVID-19. The package provides critical funding to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in response to COVID-19, as well as funding to: help develop vaccines and treatments for COVID-19, enable the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) to procure personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators, and other medical supplies; and give states the boost in the resources needed to combat the virus.
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: Provisions related to Veterans
  • The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) is receiving $19.6 Billion through the Cares Act. The VA serves as a backup health system in times of crisis—often referred to as the VA’s 4th mission. These funds will help ensure continuity of service to our Veterans, including homeless and low income Veterans, and prepare for the possibility of being activated for 4th mission.
# # #
Press Office of Senator Mike Braun, Indiana
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510

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3/29/2020

GUEST COMMENTARY: Mary DeBoer - Think First; Then ENTER

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Mary DeBoer | Mar 29, 2020
Source: NWITIMES.COM
[Excerpts from the original article
published on March 29, 2020]

GUEST COMMENTARY: Speech blessed right on, off line
Excerpt 1:
Growing up, my husband heard his father say, “It is better to remain silent and be thought ignorant than to open your mouth and remove all doubt.” Unfortunately, I never had the opportunity to know Harold DeBoer since he died long before I met my husband. However, I have found myself recalling that phrase over the years, after I had stuck my foot in my mouth or had spoken out of turn.
It has also come to mind in the course of my job when someone said or wrote something absurd. As a judicial officer, I have had 10 years to practice the skill of keeping my mouth shut and allowing people to say what they came to say when they’re in court. Not always easy.
In our times of social media, now more than ever, people seem perfectly fine “sharing” their thoughts with all of their friends on whatever site they’re on as if they are experts on a particular topic.

​[storyline ...]
​
Excerpt 2:
While I firmly believe that we have the right to voice our opinions, we should take a breath and think about what we circulate in our community before we hit “Enter” — especially since social media shares what you post instantaneously. Some people post what I call “less than productive” things on social media because they crave even negative attention while others get a thrill from being confrontational and whipping people up. If you are one of those people, then I highly doubt this article will impact you much. Daane DeBoer died for your ability to be that person.

But during these times of the coronavirus, isolation and fear, I hope that if you want to share your thoughts or “information” that you do so in an intelligent and responsible manner. Please fact-check before you drop your bombs on your 842 friends or followers. [...]


To read the full article in its entirety, click here.

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3/23/2020

Indiana Stay-At-Home Order FAQ

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For Immediate Release:
Monday, March 23, 2020
Source: ISDH 
https://www.in.gov/gov/3232.htm

​
INDIANAPOLIS – Governor Eric J. Holcomb delivered a statewide address Monday to order that Hoosiers remain in their homes except when they are at work or for permitted activities, such as taking care of others, obtaining necessary supplies, and for health and safety. Click here to see the executive order. Below are frequently asked questions and their answers.

When does the order take effect?
The Stay-At-Home Order takes effect Tuesday, March 24 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

When does the order end?
The order ends on Monday, April 6, at 11:59 p.m. ET, but could be extended if the outbreak warrants it.

Where does the order apply?
The Stay-At-Home Order applies to the entire state of Indiana. Unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity, you must stay home.

Is this mandatory or a recommendation?
This order is mandatory. For the safety of all Hoosiers, people must stay home and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

How will this order be enforced?
Staying home is critical to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in your community. Adhering to the order will save lives, and it is the responsibility of every Hoosier to do their part. However, if the order is not followed, the Indiana State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce this order. The Indiana State Department of Health and the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission will enforce the restaurant and bar restrictions.

Will the Indiana National Guard enforce this order?
No. The Indiana National Guard is aiding in planning, preparation and logistics with other state agencies. For example, the Indiana National Guard assists in distributing hospital supplies the state receives.

What is an essential business?
Essential businesses and services include but are not limited to grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, police stations, fire stations, hospitals, doctor’s offices, health care facilities, garbage pickup, public transit, and public service hotlines such as SNAP and HIP 2.0.  
A list can be found in the Governor’s executive order at coronavirus.in.gov.

What is an essential activity?
Essential activities include but are not limited to activities for health and safety, necessary supplies and services, outdoor activity, certain types of essential work, and to take care of others.
A list can be found in the Governor’s executive order at coronavirus.in.gov.

I work for an essential business. Will I be allowed to travel to and from work?
Law enforcement will not be stopping drivers on their way to and from work, traveling for an essential activity such as going to the grocery store, or just taking a walk.

Will the grocery store/pharmacy be open?
Yes, grocery stores and pharmacies are essential services.

Can I still order take out/delivery from restaurants and bars?
Yes, restaurants and bars can continue to provide takeout and delivery, but should be closed to dine-in patrons.

Can I get my groceries delivered? Can I still get my online orders delivered?
Yes, you can still receive packages, get groceries delivered, and get meals delivered.

How can I get medical care?
If you develop symptoms such as fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider.

If you suspected you have COVID-19, please call the healthcare provider in advance so that proper precautions can be taken to limit further transmission. Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or are immunocompromised should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild.

If you have severe symptoms, such as persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, or bluish lips or face, contact your healthcare provider or emergency room and seek care immediately, but please call in advance if possible. Your doctor will determine if you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and whether you should be tested.

Nonessential medical care such as eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed. When possible, health care visits should be done remotely. Contact your health care provider to see what telehealth services they provide.

What is the guidance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities?
State-operated developmental centers, intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities and community integrated living arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals in the home setting.  

If you have specific questions about your support and services, reach out to your provider or individual service coordination agency.

What if I still have to go to work?
You should stay home unless your work is an essential function such as a health care provider, grocery store clerk or first responder. If you have been designated essential by your employer, you should continue to go to work and practice social distancing.

A list of essential businesses can be found in the Governor’s executive order at coronavirus.in.gov.

What if I think my business should be closed, but they’re still asking me to report to work?
Essential businesses will remain open during the stay-at-home order to provide services that are vital to the lives of Hoosiers. If you believe your business is nonessential but still are being asked to show up to work, you may discuss it with your employer.

A certain service is essential for me, but the governor didn’t include it. What do I do?
The stay-at-home order was issued to protect the health, safety and well-being of Hoosiers. Although some businesses such as fitness centers and salons will be closed, essential services will always be available. For a list of essential businesses that will continue to operate during the order, visit coronavirus.in.gov.

Will public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis continue?
Public transportation, ride-sharing and taxis should only be used for essential travel.

Will roads in Indiana be closed?
No, the roads will remain open. You should only travel if it is for your health or essential work.

Can I still take a plane out of Indiana?
Planes and other types of transportation should be used for essential travel.

What if my home is not a safe environment?
If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and encouraged to find another safe place to stay during this order. Please reach out so someone can help. You can call the domestic violence hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE or your local law enforcement.

What about homeless people who cannot stay at home?
The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Hoosiers, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to ensure the homeless population has safe shelter.

Can I visit friends and family?
For your safety, as well as the safety of all Hoosiers, you should remain at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19. You may visit family members who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate food supply.

Can I walk my dog or go to the veterinarian?
You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. Practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.

Can I take my kids to the park?
State parks remain open, but welcome centers, inns, and other buildings are closed. Families will be able to go outside and take a walk, run or bike ride, but they should continue to practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from other people. Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing spreading the virus.

Can I attend a religious service?
Large gatherings, including church services, will be canceled to slow the spread of COVID-19. Religious leaders are encouraged to continue livestreaming services while practicing social distancing with one another.

Can I leave my home to exercise?
Outdoor exercise such as running or taking a walk is acceptable. However, gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities will be closed to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. While exercising outside, you still should practice social distancing by running or walking at least 6 feet away from other people.

Can I go to the hair salon, spa, nail salon, tattoo parlor or barber shop?
No, these businesses are ordered closed.

Can I leave my home to do laundry?
Yes. Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers are considered essential businesses.

Can I take my child to daycare?
Yes, daycares are considered an essential business.

Can I pick up meals at my child’s school?
Yes. Schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pickup and take-home basis.

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3/17/2020

THE PORTER COUNTY JUVENILE JUSTICE CENTER                         AND THE COVID-19 THREAT

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On March 12, 2020, the Porter County Commissioners established “social distancing”
practices for Porter County Government Departments and venues. That afternoon, the Porter
County Attorney, Scott McClure, discussed the implementation of these practices with the Porter
County judiciary in the hopes that the courts would put into place similar practices to limit the
gathering of large groups of people and reduce court hearings as able to minimize the spread of
the COVID-19 virus and to “flatten the curve.” The Commissioners have tentatively cancelled
events through April 8, 2020 with the caveat that cancellations thereafter will be posted on the
website.

That same afternoon and the following morning, Porter Circuit Court Judge, Mary
DeBoer, conducted meetings with her supervisors and magistrate at the Porter County Juvenile
Justice Services Center to determine how to effectuate the Commissioners’ plan to minimize the
threat of the COVID-19 virus in our community yet meet the statutory time deadlines that exist
in juvenile cases. Judge DeBoer is currently working with the Porter County judiciary to petition
the Indiana Supreme Court pursuant to Administrative Rule 17 for special permission to toll
various time periods in juvenile and adult criminal, civil and mental health matters due to the
health emergency. She anticipates this petition will be filed with the Supreme Court by
Thursday for their review.

The business conducted every day at the Juvenile Justice Center involves juveniles who
are housed in the Detention Center; juveniles who come into the Juvenile Probation Department
for probation intake and supervision meetings as well as Day Reporting; juveniles and parents
who attend hearings in Juvenile Court; juveniles who come to the Center for various programs,
such as Teen Drug Court, Teen Court and Juvenile Justice Jeopardy; Probation officers who go
out into the field to do home and community checks on juveniles who are on Home Detention;
and outside entities who visit the Detention Center for programming or mental/physical health
issues. People are coming and going constantly in various areas of the Center. But in an effort
to protect the juveniles in and out of detention, the staff in all areas of the Juvenile Justice
Services Center and the community as a whole, Judge DeBoer and the supervisors have worked
hard to limit everyone’s exposure to the COVID-19 virus and to be a part of the effort to “flatten
the curve” for the good of Porter County.

Judge DeBoer put the following policies in place through mid-April. Said practices shall
be extended if the need exists to do so.

Juvenile Detention Center Practices:
In General
  • Cleaning protocols have been coordinated with medical staff and Porter County
Facilities for the entire Juvenile Services Center.
  • All non-essential meetings are cancelled.
  • All parties shall restrict the flow of people in and out of juvenile court, detention
and probation whenever possible.

Intake
  • Court and staff will carefully assess and limit detention orders for the most
serious cases.
  • Detention staff will review and implement intake protocols prior to admission of
juveniles in the detention center.

Detained Juveniles
  • All outside programs at the JDC shall be suspended until further notice. These
programs include Youth Service Bureau, PACT, Bible groups and Valparaiso
University mentoring.
  • Visitations shall be telephonic only.
  • Professional visits shall be conducted telephonically unless an emergency exists,
and only after approval from detention supervisors.

Juvenile Court
  • The Court will schedule only mandatory hearings.
Probation
  • Probation staff will delay intakes or perform them telephonically.
  • All probation officer meetings for low-risk and medium-risk shall be suspended.
  • Probation officers will conduct probationary meetings telephonically.
  • Placement visits performed by Probation officers shall be conducted
telephonically.
  • Supervision officers shall conduct visits telephonically unless the juvenile is at
high risk to offend.

Other Programs
  • All office-based programs such as Teen Court, Juvenile Justice Jeopardy and
Positive Approach to Teen Health shall be suspended.
  • Teen Drug Court shall be suspended unless an emergency arises.
  • Home Detention community checks will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and
will be required only in the most serious cases.
  • Day Reporting shall be suspended at this time, until and unless it becomes
absolutely necessary.
  • Project Attend’s truancy program shall be conducted telephonically.

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3/16/2020

Porter County and City Closures

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During the COVID-19 health crisis, many of our municipal units are taking proactive measures to keep the public safe through limited access or complete closures to the public. We have identified our county and city efforts and have provided those links for your convenience. 
Porter County Alerts
City of Valparaiso Alert
City of Portage Alert
Town of Chesterton Alert
Valpo Closures
Portage Closures

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3/12/2020

For Immediate Release: COVID-19 Announcement from the Office of Governor Holcomb

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For Immediate Release:
Thursday, March 12, 2020
 
Gov. Holcomb Announces New Steps to Protect Public from COVID-19
INDIANAPOLIS — Governor Eric J. Holcomb today announced additional steps the state will take to reduce the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Indiana. As of noon today, the state has 12 Hoosiers who have tested presumptively positive for COVID-19.
 
“This is a time when we must do all we can to reduce the spread of COVID-19, protect our most vulnerable populations and reduce their potential to acquire or spread this virus,” said Gov. Holcomb. “While some actions are drastic, now, not later, is the time to act.”
 
Here are the actions Gov. Holcomb is initiating today.
  • Non-essential gatherings must be limited to no more than 250 people. This includes any event or gathering of people who are in one room or a single space at the same time, such as cafeterias, churches, stadiums, meeting and conference rooms, auditoriums and the like. This guidance applies to professional, social, community and similar other gatherings. Detailed guidance will be posted on the Indiana State Department of Health website by the end of the day.
  • Effective immediately, school corporations will be provided with a 20-day waiver of the required 180 instructional days for use as needed for the remainder of the academic year. The waived days do not need to be used consecutively and can be leveraged as needed.
    • If a school corporation has evidence of community spread or a confirmed positive test for coronavirus, officials should consult with the Indiana Department of Education and the Indiana State Department of Health for additional steps. Schools should plan now for broader closures, including eLearning and remote classroom options.
    • The Department of Education will release additional guidance detailing the process for submitting waiver requests as early as Friday.
    • Schools should follow the guidelines for non-essential gatherings as they make decisions about non-essential extra-curricular or co-curricular activities.
  • Child care and adult day care facilities should institute social distancing and minimize large gatherings. Temporary suspension of operations should be done in consultation with the Family and Social Services and ISDH in the instance of documented community spread.
  • Nursing facilities and hospitals should restrict and screen visitors. Any individual who is allowed to visit is restricted to the patient’s room. Visitors are not allowed if they present with any of this criteria:
    • Display signs or symptoms of illness, especially respiratory illness
    • Have traveled internationally or been in contact with someone with a respiratory illness in the past 14 days
    • Reside in a community with a known COVID-19 case
    • Those who are less than 18 years of age
  • The Indiana Department of Correction has suspended visitation at all facilities as a precaution for the health and safety of IDOC staff and offenders.
  • Individuals over 60 years of age or those with a known underlying health issue such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or chronic respiratory disease should limit their public exposure. Whenever possible, friends and family should arrange to provide food and other essential items.
  • Those who run senior centers and congregate meal services should consider suspending congregate meals services and arrange for home delivery
  • Encourage businesses to utilize telework policies, if available
 
Governor Holcomb is also issuing guidance for state employee operations. The state will suspend all non-essential out-of-state and international travel beginning today and for the next 45 days. The state is also providing employees with guidance about the use of leave and remote work options for limited durations while ensuring the delivery of essential state services. The guidance is attached.
 
“I fully expect there will be additional actions warranted in the coming days,” Gov. Holcomb said. “Just as we have since the beginning of the year, we are working with partners at all levels to secure all necessary resources for any escalation of this virus.”
 
If you are sick with COVID-19 or suspect you are infected with the virus:
  • Stay home unless you need to seek medical care.
  • Avoid public areas and public transportation
  • Stay away from others as much as possible, especially people who are the most at risk such as older adults with multiple medical problems and those with a weakened immune system
  • Don’t shake hands
  • Seek prompt medical attention if your illness is worsening such as difficulty breathing and call your doctor or healthcare facility before you seek care.
More information may be found at the ISDH website at https://on.in.gov/COVID19 and the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
-30-
​

Rachel Hoffmeyer
Press Secretary
Office of Governor Eric J. Holcomb
Cell: 317-914-5634
Follow Governor Eric Holcomb on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram

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3/7/2020

Indiana COVID-19 Alerts

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​Dear Friends, in the midst of the Coronavirus COVID-19 health crisis, please know that we're in constant comunication with both County and State Officials and following their directions as things develop. We are also following the guidance and practices subscribed by the Porter County Health Department, State of Indiana Health Department and the CDC. We are providing the ISDH Alert button along with its link below to keep the public and our members informed. Please take all precautions to keep your families safe.
​
http://www.state.in.us/isdh/28470.htm
ISDH Alerts

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    The Porter County Republican Party will provide updates, press releases, commentaries, and news from our leaders on the national, state and local levels about the COVID-19 health crisis as they develop to help keep the public and our members informed during these difficult times. We encourge you to follow the CDC and State of Indiana Department of Health guidelines. Stay safe!

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