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As Missouri and the country continue our response to the spread of COVID-19, or coronavirus, it is important we continue listening to the advice of the medical community and following the guidance of the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The state of Missouri has a 24-hour hotline staffed by medical professional that can be reached at 877-435-8411. The website health.MO.gov also has information and guidance on best practices. The CDC's website, CDC.gov, is also a great source of information.
Two weeks ago, Congress passed an $8 billion emergency funding bill to help federal, state and local health agencies respond to the outbreak. Initial efforts like increased testing capabilities and the development and dissemination of a vaccine were included in this bill. And this past Wednesday, the president signed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act that provides an even more comprehensive relief effort like free testing, paid sick leave, enhanced unemployment insurance, and food assistance for children who receive free and reduced-price lunch at school. These bills have been designed to bridge the gap for the people of this country while our medical professionals work to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
While daily news cycles are filled with concerning information, as I speak with people here in Missouri, I find encouragement in the response of many of our communities. This week, I spoke with group of small business owners in Union. They are finding innovative ways to keep businesses running and workers employed. Likewise, people in the communities are rallying around their local businesses and supporting them every way they can. As we saw with the floods and tornadoes last summer, the worst of times often bring out the best in people. This is no different.
With that said, some businesses are going to need help, and the Small Business Administration has programs to provide that help. Earlier this week, I, along with the rest of the Missouri congressional delegation, sent a letter to the Trump Administration in support of Gov. Mike Parson's request for small business assistance for our state. This disaster assistance from the Small Business Administration will make low-interest loans available for Missouri's small business community to use for payroll, accounts payable, fixed debts and other expenses that have been impacted by the spread of this virus. If your business is looking for guidance or assistance, please visit sba.gov/local-assistance/find/ to find a local SBA office.
We lost our first Missourian to coronavirus this week. It's a sobering reminder of how precious life is. Please continue being vigilant with your health and look after your family and loved ones. Missourians are resilient, and we will get through this. In the meantime, if you need assistance please use the resources available and never hesitate to call or contact my office. We are here to help.
U.S. Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, R-Mo., shares his perspective each week on national issues, including ones that affect Missouri. He represents the state's 3rd District, which includes Jefferson City. His local office can be reached at 635-7232.