COVID-19 Update May 5th

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Assistance with Unemployment 

From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic my office has been inundated with requests for assistance from constituent struggling to navigate the unemployment insurance landscape. The filing process has been complicated, and it has been impossible to get in touch with anyone on the phone to answer questions. This is the number one issue we are hearing about, no one was prepared for the large number of people filing. The Governor and the Secretary have not been able to provide a solution, however we understand they are working hard with the vendor so people can get the help they deserve. 

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My office continues to assist those who are unable to get through to a representative from the Division of Unemployment Insurance within the Department of Labor. The Department of Labor has requested we provide specific information for those who are seeking our assistance for unemployment benefits. To expedite this process, we have created a form you can fill out to tell us about the problems you are encountering while filing for unemployment. Once you have completed the form, we will get in touch with our legislative Liaison at the Department of Labor on your behalf. 

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Please fill out this form HERE

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An Update from Secretary Robinson Regarding the BEACON One-Stop

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BALTIMORE (May 5, 2020) – Maryland Department of Labor Secretary Tiffany P. Robinson today provided the following update:

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“At Governor Hogan’s direction, we have taken every necessary step to improve the performance of the BEACON One-Stop unemployment insurance application in a matter of days. Claimants experienced zero to minimal wait times on the site on Sunday and Monday, despite the record volume of traffic.

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“During the past two days, over 201,000 Marylanders have filed their weekly claim certifications. On Sunday alone, the site processed 141,000 weekly claim certifications, with claimants filing an average of 5,800 weekly certifications every hour. This is more than double the 65,000 weekly claim certifications that were processed last Sunday, April 26. We continue to enhance our capacity, and expect to build on this progress in the days ahead.

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“As a result of our efforts, Maryland is now the only state that has a comprehensive system to allow all eligible claimants to apply online in one place. While piecemeal guidance from the federal administration continues to provide challenges to administering the new CARES Act programs, we are working to alleviate any confusion for our customers.

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“For instance, federal guidance has required states to capture additional information from claimants as they complete their weekly claim certification. Marylanders found these new required questions to be confusing, resulting in numerous claimants inactivating their eligibility for unemployment benefits.

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“In response to the feedback we received from claimants, our department has implemented an automated solution to reactivate these claims and prevent benefit payments from being interrupted. Marylanders with a claim that became inactive last week can now login to their BEACON One-Stop account to file their weekly claim certification like normal. Those with a claim that became inactive this Sunday or Monday after filing their weekly claim certification will also have their claim automatically reactivated, but do not need to refile this week’s claim certification.

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“As issues arise, we are working as quickly as we can to resolve them. Nothing is more important to us than ensuring that all eligible Marylanders receive the benefits they need and deserve as soon as possible.”

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Please stay safe, continue to social distance and wash your hands, 

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Pamela Beidle

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COVID-19 Update April 30th

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Many people are having difficulties navigating the unemployment system right now. Below is a message from the Department of Labor with video tutorials that you might find helpful.

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The Maryland Department of Labor’s Division of Unemployment Insurance has posted four new tutorial videos on our website, social media pages, and YouTube to help Marylanders navigate the new BEACON One-Stop. All four videos can be found directly on our homepage at MDunemployment.com.

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The first tutorial video provides instructions for activating and logging into your account. To watch this video, please visit https://youtu.be/w826_vuOKnw.

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The second tutorial video will walk Marylanders through applying for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) CARES Act program. Those who are self-employed, independent contractors, sole proprietors, gig economy workers, have insufficient work history, or believe they are eligible for the PUA program, can submit their applications online and receive their benefits retroactive to their earliest date of eligibility. To watch the video, visit https://youtu.be/SXQgt9Lzzo4.

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The third tutorial video will walk Marylanders through applying for the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation (PEUC) CARES Act program. Those who have recently exhausted their benefits can apply for an additional 13 weeks of benefits through this new application. New claimants and those who are currently receiving benefits will automatically receive an additional 13 weeks of benefits. To watch the video, visit https://youtu.be/RO_Lp5Fnb-c.

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The fourth tutorial video will walk Marylanders through filing their weekly claim certification. To watch the video, visit https://youtu.be/s2jJK_LC64w.

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If you have additional technical questions, please email them to BEACON.support@maryland.gov.

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I hope you find this information from the Department of Labor useful, 

Pamela Beidle

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Covid-19 Update April 28th

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Many people are contacting us about  their Economic Impact Payment. The IRS has begun sending out payments, but not everyone will get them at the same time. Below is a message from Senator Chris Van Hollen addressing these concerns. 

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You must have a Social Security Number to receive an economic impact payment, and the amount begins to phase down for those with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) that exceeds $75,000 for single filers or $150,000 for married joint filers. The AGI will be based on your 2019 federal tax return, or your 2018 return if you have not yet filed this year. If you do not qualify for a payment now, or your payment is reduced, you can still receive a payment based on your 2020 tax return when you file next year. Dependents over the age of 17 are not considered eligible for the payment. For more information about eligibility, please visit the IRS’s website at https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/economic-impact-payment-information-center#paymentnot.

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The IRS has also released web tools for non-filers to enter their information. You can do so here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/non-filers-enter-payment-info-here. (Please note that recipients of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Railroad Retirement benefits, and veterans and their beneficiaries who receive Compensation and Pension (C&P) benefits will receive the payment without taking any action, but those recipients with children under 17 should still use this tool to ensure they receive that portion of the payment.)

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The IRS website also allows those still waiting for an Economic Impact Payment to check the status. You can do so here: https://www.irs.gov/coronavirus/get-my-payment.

 

Please note that many eligible people have reported receiving a “Payment Status Not Available” message using the web tool. Others have not been able to update their banking information on the website. Senator Van Hollen has made the IRS aware of these issues and the Treasury Department recently announced new technical fixes for the website. If you encounter these issues, please check back on the website periodically to try again. 

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Wash your hands, social distance and stay safe, 

Pamela Beidle

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Covid-19 Update April 21st

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Have you received your federal CARES Act payment yet?

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A onetime direct economic recovery payment was included in the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). The IRS began distribution of these payments to eligible American taxpayers last week.

If you are expecting a federal recovery rebate, but have not received it yet, visit the IRS website for more information. Make sure you have your Social Security Number (or Individual Tax ID Number), your date of birth and your address on hand when you search your payment status on the IRS website.

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To receive your CARES Act payment you must:

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  • Be a U.S. resident or citizen

  • Not be the dependent of another taxpayer

  • Have a work eligible Social Security Number

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The IRS will use the direct deposit information you supplied on your most recent tax return. If you received your last tax return via a check in the mail, your CARES Act payment will be mailed to the place of residence you provided the IRS on your most recent tax return. Click here for more information on how to update either of those items.

If you did not file a tax return in the last two years (2018 and/or 2019), the IRS will need your information. Click here for guidance on how to submit the information required, review the information for non-filers.

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Wash your hands, social distance and stay safe, 

Pamela Beidle

 

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Covid-19 Update April 8th 

 

Federal Small Business Resources

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The Department of labor has great information on common issues employers and employees face when responding to COVID-19. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/pandemic.

 

 The Paycheck Protection Program provides small businesses with funds to pay up to 8 weeks of payroll costs including benefits. Funds can also be used to pay interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. To learn how to apply, visit the US Small Business Administration’s website for COVID-19 response.

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The U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division (WHD) has a useful Frequently Asked Questions page regarding the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Topics including Federal, State, or local quarantine or isolation orders, and eligibility for paid sick leave.

For more information on Families First Coronavirus Response Act benefits and requirements, please see this Fact Sheet for Employees and Fact Sheet for Employers, available in both English and Spanish.

 

Available guidance also includes two new posters, one for federal workers and one for all other employees, available in both English and Spanish, that will fulfill notice requirements for employers obligated to inform employees about their rights under this new law, Questions and Answers about posting requirements, and a Field Assistance Bulletin describing WHD’s 30-day non-enforcement policy.

 

Economic Injury Disaster Loans & Emergency Economic Injury Grants

 

These grants provide an emergency advance of up to $10,000 to small businesses and private non-profits harmed by COVID-19.I nitially, it was anticipated that applicants would receive the funds within three days of applying for an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), however, serious delays are being reported at this time. To access the advance, you first apply for an EIDL and then request the advance. The advance does not need to be repaid under any circumstance, and may be used to keep employees on payroll, to pay for sick leave, meet increased production costs due to supply chain disruptions, or pay business obligations, including debts, rent and mortgage payments.

 

For additional information visit Senator Chris Van Hollen’s Small and Medium Business, Non-profit Guide to the CARES Act.

 

 

Covid-19 Update April 7th 

 

​​I have received many requests for information on resources available to our small businesses during this challenging time.  The Anne Arundel Economic Development Corporation and the Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation recently shared this summary with my office.  It has some great information about the state and federal agencies and programs available to assist businesses during this critical time. Further guidance is also available by contacting the AAEDC by phone at 410-222-7410 or email at info@aaedc.org.

 

You can view the resoure guide here. 

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Covid-19 Update April 3rd

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Telephone ​Town Hall Follow Up

 

I want to thank everyone that participated in my COVID-19 Town Hall call last night.  Dr. Kaylanaraman, Anne Arundel County Health Officer and I responded to many great questions.  Since I am fairly certain these are the same questions that are on everyone’s mind I thought I would share some of them with you.

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What to do if you think you have the COVID-19

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Dr. Kaylanaraman recommended ibuprofen or acetaminophen to bring down the fever and over the counter cold medicines to treat any other symptoms, call your primary care provider – they will determine if you qualify for testing and will assist you in setting up a testing appointment.

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Social Distancing

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Dr. Kaylanaraman assured everyone that it does work.  We understand how difficult it is to be separated from family, grandchildren particularly, but the benefits far outweigh the dangers of transmitting the virus. 

It is important if you share a home with essential workers, that they take measures to limit your exposure in the home.  That includes:  practicing social distancing at work if possible, washing their hands often, showering, changing clothes, and laundering their work clothes when they come home.

If you need to use public businesses such as laundromats, it was recommended that you go during off hours, take wipes to wipe down the machine controls and maintain social distancing as much as possible.

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Masks

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There were several questions about masks, to wear them or not.  Dr. Kaylanaraman said he believed new guidelines would be issued today so please stay tuned for more.  He also stated that masks prevent individuals from spreading the virus not necessarily protecting them from the virus, with the scarcity of masks, a scarf or bandana could be used.

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Also, to all of the crafters, both area hospitals are accepting homemade masks.  Details are on their websites, drop off information is:

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  • BWMC - Once completed, you can put the masks in a sealed bin or bag and contact our Foundation at bwmcfoundation@umm.edu or 410-553-8560 to coordinate drop-off time and day.

  • AAMC - When the homemade masks are completed, volunteers can drop them off curbside at Anne Arundel Medical Center on Wednesday or Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at AAMC's Belcher Pavilion Circle, 2000 Medical Parkway, Annapolis. All donations will be accepted at this time and location.​

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Price Gouging

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Should you encounter price gouging when you venture out, you can report it to the Consumer Protection Division of the Attorney General’s Office.  You can report it either on line or by phone - 410.528-8662

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Health Insurance

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In response to Coronavirus, Maryland Health Connection opened an emergency special enrollment period for uninsured Marylanders.  You can enroll in a health plan through June 15, 2020. Medicaid enrollment is available all year. 

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Visit MarylandHealthConnection.gov or download the free “Enroll MHC” mobile app. When enrolling, consumers should request or select “Coronavirus Emergency Special Enrollment Period.  The online application is available daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

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Free consumer assistance is available by calling 855-642-8572 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Deaf and hard of hearing may use Relay.  While free, in-person assistance is not available at this time, trained navigators are available by phone across the state.

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Veterans Crises Line

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Information for Veterans during this COVID-19 crisis can be found at:  https://www.maryland.va.gov/COVID19.asp

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Help is also available at:

  • Veterans Crises Line - 800-273-5255, press 1

  • Veterans that need medical advice - 800 865-2441

  • Prescription Refill line - 410-605-7395, option 2

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Summary

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The situation with the virus is a new experience for all of us.  Information on testing, treatment, masks, immunity, vaccines is changing rapidly.  For the most up to date information check reputable websites:

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Anne Arundel County Health Department

Maryland Department of Health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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Wash your hands, social distance and stay safe, 

​

Pamela Beidle

 

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Covid-19 Update April 1st

 

Important Health Insurance Information

And

Executive Order Clarification

 

Health insurers in Maryland are responding to the COVID-19 coronavirus in a myriad of ways.  Plans are eliminating barriers to care including waiving cost-shares, providing more virtual care options, and keeping members updated through mobile apps and websites with the latest information.  For specific questions we encourage you to reach out to your plan, however the following summary may be helpful to you. 

A good first step if you suspect you or a family member may have contracted the virus is to call the nurse line and/or member services line, the majority of which are available 24/7 to answer member questions. 

 

  • Aetna: 800-556-1555

  • CareFirst: 800-535-9700

  • Cigna: 888-726-3171 or 855-667-9722

  • Kaiser Permanente: 1-800-777-7904

  • UnitedHealthcare: Members should call the Member Service phone number on the back of their ID cards.

 

Health insurers are encouraging the use of telemedicine and virtual sites of care. This includes the following:

  • Encouraging the use of 24/7 nurse phone lines to virtually access clinical resources at no cost to members. The nurses are trained in the latest screening and testing referral protocols.

  • Paying for telephone-only consultations with clinician staff of primary care, general practice, internal medicine, pediatrics, OBGYN, and nurse practitioners with no member out-of-pocket cost.

  • Utilizing mobile apps to answer member questions and conduct coronavirus assessments based on guidelines from the CDC and NIH.

  • Providing emotional support for those members experiencing stress or anxiety via a 24/7 phone line and online at no cost to members.

 

During these challenging time the health insurers across Maryland and the United States have agreed to waive cost-sharing requirements for testing. 

 

They have also:

  • eliminated prior authorization requirements for medically necessary diagnostic tests and covered services related to COVID-19 diagnosis.

  • waived early medication refill limits on 30-day maintenance medications.

  • worked with pharmacy partners to provide free delivery of medications and assist with mailing prescriptions.

  • worked with lab partners to support access to testing as it becomes available.

  • worked with customers to help them navigate and address questions about coverage related to employment status.​​​​​

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Each health plan in Maryland, has released detailed information on what they doing to combat the virus.  You can see the individual company press releases below:

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Please remember this information is for Maryland based healthcare providers.  If your plan is out of state, please call the information number on your membership card.

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Stay at Home Directive Clarified

Governor Hogan signed an executive order mandating that all Marylanders stay at home for the foreseeable future, as of last night with the exception of essential activities.  There is likely to be confusion around exactly what that Stay at Home Order means and I hope the information below will help to provide clarity.

 

According to the Governor’s Executive Order, Essential Activities include:

  • Obtaining necessary supplies like groceries and products to maintain personal safety

  • Seeking medical and behavioral health care

  • Caring for and transporting family, friends, and animals

  • Traveling to and from schools for meals and instructional materials

  • Engaging in outdoor exercise as long as it adheres to social distancing guidelines

  • Travel required by law enforcement, or court order

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Other Important Notes

  1. Public transportation is still available, but only for the essential activities listed above

  2. Restaurants and bars are still allowed to operate carry-out, drive-through, and delivery operations

  3. Curbside pickup at all other non-essential businesses is now prohibited, though those businesses may sell products on a delivery basis if feasible

  4. All campgrounds are now closed, with the exception of those living in an RV with no other viable place of residence

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You can read the Governor’s Executive Order Here, as well as his first and second interpretive guidance documents for more information.  These actions are necessary to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 and save the lives of countless Marylanders.

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Thank you for continuing to do your part.  Please do not hesitate contact my office we can offer you any assistance at pamela.beidle@senate.state.md.us.  Please stay safe and keep washing your hands.

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Pamela Beidle​​

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Covid-19 Update March 30th

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Today, the Governor issued a Stay at Home Directive beginning at 8:00pm tonight. This means all Marylanders should remain at home with limited exceptions. Essential businesses can remain open and delivery options for restaurants remain unchanged.  States across the country are implementing similar measures to keep everyone safe and flatten the curve. This disruption to our lives is necessary at this time to keep our hospitals below capacity so healthcare providers can care for all of those who need it. 

 

The Governor’s latest Executive Order also bans the gathering or 10 or more people.  Any person who knowingly and willfully violates this Order is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding one year or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.

 

You can see the Governor’s Executive Order at:  https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Gatherings-FOURTH-AMENDED-3.30.20.pdf. 

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Other Useful Information

Unemployment Insurance

We understand that the call lines at are busy, it is recommend that you use the website if you can, an additional server has been added:

 https://secure-2.dllr.state.md.us/NetClaims/Welcome.aspx

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Also the call center has extended their hours.  They are 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

You can see a full FAQ list on Unemployment Insurance here.

 

Gatherings of 10+ People

According to the Governor’s EO, the order applies to "social, community, spiritual, religious, recreational, leisure, and sporting gatherings" of 10 or more people.

 

1099/Independent Contractors 

We are watching the federal legislation that could expand unemployment benefits to independent contractors.  In the meantime, the best thing to do is to send an email to the Dept. of Commerce at fpaaworkflowcoordinator.commerce@maryland.gov.  You should receive a response and guidance fairly quickly. 

 

Maryland Business Assistance

The Maryland Department of Commerce is offering three new business assistance programs in response to the COVID-19 pandemic:

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  • Maryland Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Relief Loan Fund:  This loan fund is only available to for-profit businesses.  It offers loans up to $50,000 (not to exceed three months of cash operating expenses) with no interest or principal payments due for the first 12 months.  After 12 months, the loans convert to a 36-month term loan of principal and interest payments, with an interest rate at 2% per annum.  Businesses must have 50 employees or fewer and demonstrate financial stress or disrupted operations.

 

 

 

If you have specific questions about these funds, please email fpaaworkflowcoordinator.commerce@maryland.gov.

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Other Information For Businesses

Check out the business express website for questions and information for businesses https://govstatus.egov.com/md-coronavirus-business  as well as Labor's website for the layoff aversion grants http://www.labor.maryland.gov/employment/covidlafund.shtml

 

Childcare Center Updates

Starting March 27 at 5 p.m., child care centers were closed with the exception of those designated for centers for essential workers.  A child care provider can sign up to care for essential employees’ children by contacting their licensing specialist and completing an application.  Others will have to contact Steven Hicks, Assistant State Superintendent for Early Childhood at steven.hicks@maryland.gov.

 

Updated Maryland Statistics

Statistics and other helpful information can be found at:  https://coronavirus.maryland.gov/

 

SNAP Benefits

Maryland's SNAP benefit recipients have been granted an six-month extension amid the COVID-19 pandemic.  Those with benefits expiring in March, April, and May will now be able to hold on to their benefits until September, October and November 2020 respectively.  This also includes households with earned income that, by regulation, cannot normally be certified for more than a six-month period.

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Marylanders can get information, apply for DHS programs and services, and check the status of applications online at:  http://mydhrbenefits.dhr.state.md.us/dashboardClient/#/home, and by calling the DHS Call Center at 1-800-332-6347 (TTY 1-800-735-2258), Monday-Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

 

Ventilators in Maryland

There is not presently a shortage of ventilators in Maryland.  There are an estimated 1,040 ventilators available according to the Surge Task Force, but it is possible a shortage may exist in the future.  More comprehensive information is available here 

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Update on Methadone:

With the support of the health department, eligible patients are being given multiple days of dosing in order to avoid crowding at methadone clinics.  Eligible patients are those deemed to be responsible enough to handle multiple days of dosing without getting into trouble.

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The industry is seeking urgent action by Medicaid authorities to authorize reimbursement for telemedicine, which would enable the clinic operators to stay in touch with patients in their homes. It might be helpful for you to weigh in on this issue with senior management. 

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This crisis could lead to an increase in fatalities among substance users for a variety of reasons, including multi-day dosing at methadone clinics.  Telemedicine support will go a long way to reducing this risk.

 

HELPFUL WEBSITES

 

Thank you to everyone for cooperating with the Governor’s directives.  Please stay safe and keep washing your hands, 

 

Pamela Beidle

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Covid-19 Update March 27th​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

 

While we are all at home practicing social distancing, I have consolidated some helpful links and information below to help you find resources available during these challenging times. 

 

COVID-19

Remember if you feel you might have COVID-19; call your health-care provider and they can help determine the best course of action for you and your loved ones.

 

Maryland’s Coronavirus Website: http://coronavirus.maryland.gov

 

This site is a one-stop shop for COVID-19 info - https://www.aacounty.org/coronavirus/  or 410-222-7256

 

Information on Maryland’s senior call-check program to help provide assistance to seniors that may need it. https://aging.maryland.gov/Pages/senior-call-check.aspx   

 

 

Meals

For meal resources - https://www.aacounty.org/coronavirus/food/index.html 

 

Anne Arundel County Food Bank - https://aafoodbank.org/  

 

Maryland Food Bank - https://mdfoodbank.org/  

 

Student Meal Location Finder: https://gis.aacounty.org/mapping/index.html?viewer=covid19 

 

 

AA County Police Department Non-Emergency Number: (410) 222-8050 

 

Taxes

Information about changes to tax filing deadlines. -

http://marylandtaxes.com/media/2020/Due_Dates_Website_Cover.pdf

 

 

Business Information

Anne Arundel County Economic Development Corporation: https://www.aaedc.org 

 

Maryland Department of Commerce: https://commerce.maryland.gov 

 

Maryland Department of Labor: http://www.labor.maryland.gov/employment/covidlafund.shtml​

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If you need to contact my office for a constituent or legislative issue, my staff will be teleworking and available by email at pamela.beidle@senate.state.md.us. We will also be monitoring the office voicemail periodically so if you cannot email us, you can call the office at 410-841-3593 and leave a voicemail and we will respond as soon as possible.  

 

Please stay safe and we will get through this together, 

 

Pamela Beidle

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Covid-19 Update - March 16th

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Update from the Governor’s Office 

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The Governor signed several executive orders today prohibiting gatherings of over 50 people and shutting down all bars, restaurants (with the exception of take-out and drive-through), movie theaters, and gyms in the state. His executive Orders also shut down casinos, and racetracks and betting facilities. They will take effect at 5:00pm today and last for the duration of the state of emergency.

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The Governor is also prohibiting evictions relating to loss of income due to the Covid-19 virus during the state of emergency and banning utility companies from terminating residential services.

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You can read all of the Governor’s Executive Orders concerning Covid-19 HERE.

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Update from Anne Arundel County

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The Anne Arundel County Health Department has a Covid -19 Health line.  You can call 410-222-7256

This health line is operated answered by an actual employee and can answer any questions you have about the virus.  The Health line is operational:

 

Monday – Friday 7:30 am – 10:30 pm

Saturday – Sunday 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

 

For up-to-date information about Covid-19, visit www.aahealth.org/coronavirus and the CDC website: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov.

 

For general questions about the disease, residents are encouraged to call 2-1-1. Individuals concerned about medical information should call their healthcare provider.

 

Anne Arundel Public schools announced yesterday that they are expanding the school meals program to include breakfast, lunch and dinner while schools remain closed. Meals are available at 52 locations in the County.  You can find the one closest to you HERE.

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Seniors citizens in the county looking for information about senior center closures, in need of daily meals or would like to be added to the County daily call list:

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Contact 410-222-4257 or email at info_and_assistance@aacounty.org

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This is a developing situation and I will continue to pass along information as it becomes available.

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Stay safe and wash your hands,

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Pam Beidle

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Covid-19 Update - March 14th 

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The General Assembly is working through the weekend, we are committed to passing a balanced budget and advancing key legislative priorities. Communication with public health experts and medical professionals will continue to ensure appropriate steps are taken in the interest the public.

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For updated information about COVID-19, please call 410-222-7256 or visit AAHealth.org/coronavirus Check Maryland Department of Health for the latest information on coronavirus and the state’s response to the outbreak.

What you can do?

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Social distancing will help protect our shared community. If we take drastic measures now, together, we can slow the spread of this virus and protect those in the county at high risk. We are urging everyone to follow CDC guidelines.

 

Clean your hands often.

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

  • If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.


Avoid close contact

 

Cover coughs and sneezes

  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.

  • Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol

 

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School Closures

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For the latest information on school closures visit - https://www.aacps.org/coronavirus.

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All Maryland schools are closed from Monday March 16th through Friday March 27th.

Free meals will be provided to children at 52 locations throughout the county. Find the closest one to you here http://aacpsschools.org/pressr/?p=5653. Schools are providing children (2-18) with a single meal each day. Children do not have to be eligible for free and reduced-price meals to go and get a meal. Adults cannot accept meals on behalf of children.

 

Breakdown of what’s happening in the Community

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Here is a breakdown of what is going on at the local level to slow the spread of Covid-19. County Executive Pittman signed an executive order to declare a state of emergency for Anne Arundel County.

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  • Health Department issued guidance for private and local organizations and community partners on public events to protect residents and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

  • The Sheriff will not be enforcing eviction notices during the crisis and water service shut offs are suspended indefinitely.

  • Libraries are closed through March 30th.

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Senior centers

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Rec & Parks 

  • Announced that all indoor recreational programs are postponed

  • Suspended indoor and outdoor use of school facilities and senior centers 

  • Closed pools and rec centers through AACPS closures 

  • Communicated with athletic associations to cancel practice 

  • All turf fields are closed 

  • Child care programs are closed 

  • Parks remain open, but visitor centers are closed

 

AACC

  • Extended spring break, classes resume online April 6

 

County Personnel

  • Telework policy to be implemented Monday

  • Relaxed the rules on doctor’s notes to allow a return to work in order to lessen the impact on health care providers 

  • For employees who don’t earn leave, if an employee presents with an illness administrative leave can be made available

 

Circuit Court is suspended

  • Non-essential judicial functions are suspended 

 

Police

  • Taking police reports for relatively minor and non-violent crimes by telephone and online 

 

Detention Facilities

  • No visitations allowed. 

 

Workforce Development 

  • Career centers are closed to the general public, appointments only.  

  • Appointment only consultations are being delivered virtually. 

 

Public Works 

  • Coordination with Annapolis DPW to do mutual aid at water plant and roads 

 

Housing

  • Social distancing from work orders that aren’t emergencies. 

  • Discontinuing inspection next week.

  • No evictions or court actions. 

 

Mental Health

  • Mobile crisis is using extreme discretion for in person visits and is moving to phone consultations wherever possible. 

 

Inspections & Permits

  • Permits are being issued by appointment only to limit foot traffic. 

  • Plan review is happening remotely. 

  • Conducting limited inspections.

  • Postponing inspection of tax cabs to July 

 

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For updated information about COVID-19, please call 410-222-7256 or visit AAHealth.org/coronavirus

Check Maryland Department of Health for the latest information on coronavirus and the state’s response to the outbreak.


The good news is that this is not permanent. The more proactive measures we take now, the better Maryland will fare over the weeks to come.

 

Stay safe and wash your hands,

 

Pamela Beidle

​

​​State Response to Covid-19

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I have been closely monitoring this situation with my colleagues in the County and State Department of Health and several measures have been announced to slow the spread of Covid-19.

 

You can keep up to date with reliable information at coronavirus.gov and on the Maryland Department of Health Website - health.maryland.gov/coronavirus

 

The General Assembly will move forward with our Constitutional obligations to pass a balanced budget and we will work all weekend to pass essential legislation.​​​​

 

The Governor and state agencies are taking steps to curb the spread of COVID-19. Those actions include:

 

1 - Public schools will close for two weeks beginning on Monday (3/16).

 

2 - Canceling all events of more than 250 people.

 

3 - All non-essential state workers will work from home.

 

4 - The National Guard has been activated.

 

Senate President Ferguson and Speaker Jones announced a number of steps that the Maryland General Assembly is taking in the same effort.

 

Effective immediately for the Maryland General Assembly:

 

1 - The State House Trust voted to close the State House to public access and only allow those persons with a State issued badge into the building. This includes a cancellation of all scheduled tours and outside visitors.

 

2 - Only people with a State-issued credential will be permitted in the House and Senate Office buildings, as well as Legislative Services. Members of the public will not be permitted within the Legislative Complex.

 

3 - A mandatory telework policy for all non-essential personnel is in effect. The vast majority of staff will be working from home, meaning that office and committee operations will function differently for the foreseeable future. If you are trying to reach your representative, please email versus call for the fastest reply.In order to fulfill our Constitutional duties and protect the health and safety of all Marylanders, we need to be sure that the Governor has the resources necessary to maintain public health during this extraordinary time.

 

The good news is that this is not permanent. The more proactive measures we take now, the better Maryland will fare over the weeks to come.

 

Stay safe and wash your hands,

 

Pamela Beidle                                                                                   

State Senator      

District 32​

Covid-19 Updates

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Authority: Friends of Pam Beidle, Leonard W. Beidle, Treasurer.