Arkansas News

, , , ,

Summer and Fall Registration at UA Cossatot

, , , ,

At UA Cossatot, we understand the seriousness of the COVID-19 SITUATION. But we also know that there is an end to this uncertainty. We are planning for the future and you should be too. America needs more healthcare professionals, truck drivers, teachers, and technicians of all kinds. VIP registration for summer and fall classes begins March 30th. And in keeping with social distancing, registration will be available by email, phone, and text. Check out the available classes at: https://www.cccua.edu/apply-enroll/class-schedules

Cossatot Community College

Click the following links to access the PDF version of the current or upcoming semester's full course schedule. Summer 2020 Schedule (3.23.2020) Fall 2020 Schedule (3.23.2020) Find specific courses through Campus Connect Course Search. There's no need to login.

,

Governor Hutchinson Authorizes $30 Million For Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

,
asa hutchinson.jpg

LITTLE ROCK – Governor Asa Hutchinson has authorized the release of $30 million to the Department of Finance and Administration for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) for health care professionals and first responders as they test and treat patients who have contracted COVID-19.

Since the state’s first case of coronavirus was confirmed on March 11, it has spread rapidly through Arkansas. In order to ensure that the supply of protective gear is sufficient, Governor Hutchinson sought emergency approval for a Various Temporal Appropriation Request. Larry Walther, secretary of the Department of Finance and Administration (DFA), submitted the request to the co-chairs of the Legislative Council and the co-chairs of the ALC PEER Subcommittee, who approved the request on behalf of the Legislative Council.

The $30 million is being allocated from the Budget Stabilization Trust Fund to a Disaster Assistance Grant, which will go into the Governor’s Disaster Fund. DFA will find and purchase the PPE, and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences will distribute based upon priorities set by the Arkansas Department of Health.  Local hospitals will participate in the bulk purchase and each will pay its portion of the overall purchase.

“The testers, first responders, nurses, and doctors are our first line of defense in the fight against this aggressive virus,” Governor Hutchinson said. “They are risking their lives in the same way as firefighters who run into a burning building.  We must provide them every piece of protection they need as they test and treat the Arkansans who have contracted COVID-19.”

Governor Hutchinson’s Weekly Radio Address - Tough Time Calls for Telemedicine (Click Below to Listen)

null

null

The COVID-19 pandemic has required us to rethink how we do things in our personal lives from education to our business, and how we entertain ourselves. The same is true in government. We have suspended a number of regulatory hurdles in order to navigate this uncharted territory. Today I’d like to discuss the steps we have taken to expand telemedicine.

Telemedicine is especially important at a time such as this when we are dealing with a fast-moving virus that threatens a large part of our population. Telemedicine allows a sick person to communicate with a doctor without having to go to an office and put other patients and health care workers at risk of infection.

Telemedicine is not new in Arkansas. Since 2017, patients have been able to consult with doctors and counselors about certain issues using various internet and telephonic technology. But that access was limited. Under the law, a doctor or counselor could not accept and consult with a first-time patient by telephone.

As we realized how easily the coronavirus spreads and that the number of cases likely would increase rapidly, we knew we needed to temporarily allow health care providers more ways to treat patients. So based on the wisdom and counsel of doctors and other leaders in health care, I issued an executive order suspending the provisions of the Telemedicine Act that require an in-person encounter or a face-to-face examination using real time audio and visual means to establish a professional relationship.

In other words, now a doctor can establish a new patient in his practice over the telephone. This will minimize the number of people in waiting rooms, which, of course, will minimize the spread of the coronavirus as well as flu and other contagious diseases.

The other significant element of the order is that it allows reimbursement to health care providers who take advantage of this provision. This is especially important for rural clinics that depend on income from patient visits. The reimbursement provision prevents economic harm to the doctors.

The order also suspended the Rules and Regulations of the Arkansas Board of Examiners in Counseling to allow licensed counselors to treat their clients by telephone.

Word of the order is still making its way to the insurance companies. We’ve heard reports that some companies have denied payment, but in cases where that has happened, it’s because the memo hasn’t worked its way down to the agents who work directly with customers. Leaders in the insurance industry generally have embraced this temporary solution. They know that we are in a crisis and that this short-term benefit will shorten the duration of this pandemic.

Whether we are facing a natural disaster or a medical crisis, Arkansans always run to the fight with courage and creativity. COVID-19 has upended life for many and forced us to change the way we do things, at least in the short term. The leaders in health care and all the personnel on the front lines are fighting this pandemic around the clock, which is why I am confident we are going to get through this as we always do.



,

Click Below for Latest Updates/Maps from the Arkansas Department of Health

,

Arkansas Department of Health

For COVID-19 information for the state of Arkansas, click here. Status Update as of March 23, 2020, 9:43am Arkansas Department of Health Lab positive test results 81 Commercial lab positive test results 84 Click the Status Update button below for more information You need javascript enabled to view this content or go to source URL.

adh-logo.png
, , ,

Weekly Update from State Representative DeAnn Vaught

, , ,
deann vaught.jpg

If you are a business owner struggling to meet payroll or if you have recently become unemployed due to the response from COVID-19, we want to direct you to state resources that may help.

Earlier this week the Governor announced that Arkansas will tap Community Development Block Grant funds and the state’s Quick Action Closing Fund to support small businesses and nonprofits that are struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The state will allocate $12 million in block grant money and up to $4 million from the quick-action fund to provide bridge loans to help midsize companies and nonprofits remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic. Attorney General Leslie Rutledge also announced the transfer of $3 million of settlement funds from her office to the quick-action loan fund for small businesses.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan program has been made available to eligible businesses and private non-profits that were impacted.

These working capital loans of up to $2 million can be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact.

Businesses and employers can access information on the grants and loans at www.arkansasedc.com/covid19.

COVID-19 Business and Employee Resources | Arkansas Economic Development Commission

The Arkansas Economic Development Commission is committed to helping businesses and employees combat the effects of COVID-19. On this page, we have compiled a list of programs and resources, and we will continue to update this list as additional resources become available.

The Governor has also directed Division of Workforce Services to waive a number of restrictions for workers who have lost employment to ensure that the Unemployment Insurance Program (UIP) can provide needed assistance in a timely manner.

Unemployed individuals will be able to collect benefits immediately upon application approval rather than the typical week-long waiting period.

In addition, for the next 30 days, unemployed individuals will not be required to meet job search requirements. In person application requirements are also waived.

Arkansans can apply at www.ezarc.adws.arkansas.gov

ADWS EZARC - Welcome to EZARC

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday: 6:00AM - 6:00PM ADWS does not send text messages, emails or initiate calls to claimants requesting they provide us with their Social Security Numbers and/or personal banking information. Individuals seeking to file unemployment insurance claims should only use ADWS secured websites accessible through dws.arkansas.gov Servicios de Interpretación/Traducción disponibles por medio de su oficina local.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will suspend the work requirement through the end of April. DHS also will expedite decisions about SNAP eligibility for those who lose income because of COVID-19 www.access.arkansas.gov.

Voter Registration

If you need assistance, please see the information below: If you do not have access to a printer, please call 1-800-482-8988 (Toll-free Client Assistance Helpline) to have a Voter Registration Application mailed to you.

We will continue to update you daily on new developments concerning the state response to COVID-19 at www.arkansashouse.org.

Home - Arkansas House of Representatives

ARGIRLSLEAD #ARGIRLSLEAD is a movement started by women serving in the Arkansas House. Each of them have a unique story to share about their journey on the road to their current leadership position. Kids In The House Who says civics can't be fun?

,

Arkansas Small Businesses Can Now Apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans

,

Arkansas small businesses suffering economic injury due to coronavirus (COVID-19) are now eligible to apply for low-interest SBA loans.

See our fact sheet for the documentation you will need for your application.

How can the loan be used?
The loans are for working capital, which includes fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that can't be paid due to the disaster's impact. Lost sales are not covered.

How much can I apply for?
You will not be asked how much you would like to borrow. The SBA uses the information you provide to determine the loan amount. Small businesses can receive a secured loan up to $2 million, and an unsecured loan up to $25,000.

Go to disasterloan.sba.gov/ela to register and apply.
Online Application Tips
Use Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox to apply.
The Help button provides useful information for each page.
Use the Save button frequently.
Be patient and keep trying if you experience slow load times.

,

Arkansas Community Foundation Accepting Proposals for Mini-Grants to Nonprofits Assisting in COVID-19 Relief

,
acf logo.png

Little Rock, Ark. (March 20, 2020) – Arkansas Community Foundation is accepting proposals for $1,000 mini-grants for organizations responding to the immediate needs of vulnerable populations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These grants will help organizations maintain their operations and respond to increased demand from clients during this first phase of pandemic relief. Nonprofit organizations with 501c3 status, churches, hospitals, schools or government entities based anywhere in Arkansas are eligible to apply. Priority will be given to organizations that:

· Provide human services and emergency assistance (for example, food, shelter, transportation, living expenses, rent/utility assistance, etc.

· Primarily serve vulnerable populations, including children who are out of school in families without childcare, people who have lost a source of income due to the pandemic, people who are at high risk medically, people who are homeless or incarcerated, individuals who lack paid sick leave or health insurance.

· Disseminate factual safety and response information to vulnerable communities such as non-English speaking residents, rural residents, senior citizens, etc.

Organizations may use funding to support client’s needs that cover costs associated with decreased staffing or remote-working due to quarantine/social distancing; provide mental health programming for clients or staff or coordinate/facilitate in-kind goods; and donations to sites and organizations that provide human services and serve vulnerable populations. This is not an exhaustive list, and other needs will be considered.

Businesses and individuals are not eligible to apply; however, we will consider grants to nonprofit organizations that provide direct financial assistance to individuals.

Visit www.arcf.org/COVID19 to apply online. Mini-grant applications will be accepted and grants will be awarded on a rolling basis until available grant funds are expended. All grants will be awarded in the form of a $1,000 award for general operating support. Organizations may receive only one mini-grant at this time.

Responding to COVID-19 in Arkansas

Arkansas Community Foundation has established a statewide COVID-19 Relief Fund. Your contribution will be pooled with contributions from other Arkansans to help our neighbors affected by the pandemic. How will the Arkansas COVID-19 Relief Fund be used? In the short term, the fund will provide rapid-response grants to nonprofit organizations working on the front lines.

, ,

From Dr Glenn Lance of Nashville Family Dentistry

, ,
asda.png

As a precautionary measure, the Arkansas State Dental Association has recommended that all dental clinics in the state close their doors for a brief period of time. Dr. Glenn Lance agrees,with this recommendation, so effective Friday, March 20, Nashville Family Dentistry will be closed. They hope to reopen Monday, March 30th. Until then, let's stay home and stay healthy. A message from Dr. Glenn Lance and Nashville Family Dentistry. If you need emergency dental assistance, please call 870-845-5207.

, , , ,

ADEM Urges Families to Sign Up for Smart911

, , , ,
adem.png

Arkansas Division of Emergency Management Urges Families Statewide to Sign Up for Smart911 to Enable Coronavirus Awareness for 9-1-1 and Emergency Responders

“Take Control, Let Us Know” campaign empowers individuals to share critical medical information for more informed emergency response

North Little Rock – As Arkansas responds to the spread of the coronavirus, public health and safety officials ask all Arkansans to sign up for the Smart911 national safety profile registry, a free service that allows individuals and families to provide critical medical information to 9-1-1 and first responders. Arkansas is launching the “Take Control, Let Us Know” campaign to empower the community to take action, and provide valuable and accurate health data that increases the awareness of 9-1-1, first responders, and Emergency Management to an individual’s risk level for coronavirus.

Members of our community are looking for ways to improve the safety of their families, friends and neighbors as the coronavirus spreads. By signing up for Smart911, individuals can help first responders get the key information they need about every person who may need assistance, not only during this outbreak, but during any emergency.

Individuals can create a Smart911 Safety Profile for their household at www.smart911.com or on the Smart911 App that provides critical medical information for those who may be at higher risk of developing a serious COVID-19 illness. As identified by the CDC, the vulnerable population includes older adults, and those with a history of chronic medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, respiratory conditions, and compromised immune systems. When an individual calls 9-1-1, their Smart911 Safety Profile is automatically displayed, allowing our public safety agencies to send emergency response teams to the right location with enhanced medical data.

Individuals can additionally self-identify if they are under quarantine, and whether it is self-imposed or directed by a health professional. The Smart911 App allows quarantined individuals to receive check-in messages on their health status. Smart911 also allows individuals to sign up for alerts from emergency management officials to receive reliable information about the changing coronavirus situation. Individuals who sign up will also receive tailored alerts based on their specific needs and geographic location. With enhanced coronavirus awareness, individuals and first responders have vital information to take proper precautions.

“As the coronavirus continues to be a major public health concern, we are doing everything we can to prepare, respond, and mitigate risk to those in our community who need assistance,” said A.J. Gary, Director of the Division of Emergency Management. “The information provided in a Smart911 Safety Profile enables us to know who is at the greatest risk in our community. We can provide individuals with critical updates based on their location and health history. Ultimately, Smart911 gives our state the chance to be proactive, and lets us know who requires our services. We urge all Arkansans to take action, sign up for Smart911, and help us address the coronavirus outbreak.”

To sign up or update your Safety profile, visit www.smart911.com or download the Smart911 app in the Apple Store or Google Play.

Smart911

This service helps 9-1-1 protect your family by providing more information to first responders. You should sign up too, it is free!


,

VIDEO: Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson Update on COVID-19

,

Governor Asa Hutchinson has announced public schools in Arkansas to remain closed until April 17. Bars and restaurants will be closed to dine in customers, drive through and take out only. There are currently 62 cases of the Coronavirus in Arkansas. 9 new counties are affected. Sevier County is the only county in Southwest Arkansas with a positive Covid-19 test.

,

Governor Hutchinson Announces Relief for Businesses, Child-Care Providers To Ease COVID-19 Impact

,
arkansas.jpg

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas will tap Community Development Block Grant funds and the state’s Quick Action Closing Fund to support small businesses and nonprofits that are struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Asa Hutchinson announced today during a press conference at the Capitol.

The Governor has made a formal request for a disaster declaration for small businesses, which will open up loans of up to $2 million in working capital.

“Arkansas and the nation are enduring a jolt to the economy and a huge loss of revenue,” Governor Hutchinson said. “The state cannot cover every loss of business, but we can help with bridge loans to assist companies, nonprofits, and child-care-voucher providers weather this slowdown and retain workers during this national emergency.” 

The state will allocate $12 million in block grant money and up to $4 million from the quick-action fund to provide bridge loans to help midsize companies and nonprofits remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Governor also announced that the state will increase reimbursement for child-care voucher providers who care for children who receive federal child-care assistance and that remain open through March 27.

The Department of Human Services (DHS) will suspend the renewal process for child-care vouchers for 30 days. DHS will expedite the process and temporarily relax limits on capacity for providers. More than 800 child-care providers have closed.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will suspend the work requirement through the end of April. DHS also will expedite decisions about SNAP eligibility for those who lose income because of COVID-19.

, ,

Cotton Introduces Phase III Legislation to Surge Cash to American Families, Businesses

, ,
tom cotton.jpg

Washington, D.C. – Senator Cotton (R-Arkansas) introduced a series of bills today to combat the economic fallout from the coronavirus. The four bills each leverage existing government systems to surge cash to low- and middle-income Americans and struggling businesses. Summaries of the bills may be found below.

After introducing the bills, Senator Cotton released the following statement.

“Low and middle-income Americans need help now—not in weeks or months. By using existing government programs to surge cash to struggling families and businesses, we can get them that assistance now. My bills will help our nation weather this storm so that we can emerge stronger than ever on the other side.”

Coronavirus Economic Stimulus Act

Authorizes the Treasury Department to immediately cut a tax-rebate check of $1,000 for every adult tax filer making less than $100,000 per year and $500 for each claimed dependent. Married couples filing jointly that make less than $200,000 per year would be eligible for a $2,000 tax-rebate check.

Eligible filers would receive full rebate checks regardless of tax liability.

This would be a one-time payment. Treasury would use 2018 tax information to assess eligibility.

Coronavirus TANF Expansion Act

Provides Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) block grants to states that temporarily broaden eligibility standards so that their programs apply to any family with children under 18 whose income has been reduced due to coronavirus and that earned less than 400% FPL last year.

This new class of eligibility would receive a one-time payment of at least $500 and no more than $1,000 per dependent; states would have flexibility within that guidance.

Temporarily waives work requirements for eligibility in the interest of public health.

Coronavirus Unemployment Insurance Expansion Act

Provides block grants to states that expand eligibility to cover: 1) cases where an individual's employer temporarily ceases operations due to coronavirus, 2) cases where an individual is quarantined with the expectation of returning to work and is not receiving pay due to the coronavirus emergency, and 3) cases where an individual must stop receiving pay in order to care for family members or dependents due to the emergency.

Reimburses states for 100% of the costs of the expansion.

Temporarily suspends requirements to seek work in the interest of public health.

Expansion would last until December 31, 2020 or the termination of the national emergency, whichever comes first.

Coronavirus Credit Expansion Act

Increases the cap on small-business disaster loans from $2 million to $20 million dollars, and funds appropriately.

Grants low-interest loans to businesses immediately, with penalties for fraudulent claims being 3x the amount of the loan.