Rep. Tulsi Gabbard Updates Thousands on Coronavirus Testing, Healthcare for Those in Need, and New Relief for Small Businesses

Press Release

Yesterday, Rep. Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) hosted her latest tele-town hall meeting and covered issues ranging from testing efforts across the state to healthcare and small business relief programs available to Hawai"i residents.

"So many people are struggling through the coronavirus pandemic and the uncertainty that comes with it. Connecting them with resources, information, and experts through these virtual town halls are a way to address their concerns and make sure they are armed with the tools they need to get through these difficult times. Everyone is experiencing this crisis differently, and answering their questions helps them through the process to get the help they need," said Rep. Tulsi Gabbard. "With thousands of people joining us for each of our telephone town halls, we answer many live questions, and follow up with each individual after the event to ensure their questions are addressed."

The Congresswoman's district office can be reached by phone at (808) 541-1986 or by email at TulsiOffice@mail.house.gov. Although the team is working remotely, voicemails are being checked and responded to daily.

During today's call, Rep. Gabbard was joined by Dr. Scott Miscovich of Premier Medical Group who outlined his testing efforts across the state and explained the latest developments in testing -- including new serum antibody tests -- which will impact how the state starts to reopen. Medicaid Director, Judy Mohr Peterson, and Deputy Director, Meredith Nichols, shared information and updates on Medicaid and answered questions from constituents about the process of applying for Medicaid.

Jane Sawyer, the Hawai"i Director of the Small Business Administration, noted that new applications for the Paycheck Protection Program are being processed after Congress voted last week to replenish its funds. She discussed the application process as well as who is eligible for the SBA loans. She answered several questions from business owners about challenges they are facing when applying for relief programs. Director Sawyer encouraged others with questions to reach out to the SBA via email at hawaiigeneral@sba.gov.

Darin Leong, an employment law attorney, answered questions about assistance available to small businesses, as well as the requirements businesses must follow for their COVID-19 loans to be forgiven. He noted that while small businesses in Hawai"i were successful in securing a significant amount of Paycheck Protection Program loans in its first round, there have been challenges with the application process which have put Hawai"i businesses and lenders at a disadvantage in the new application period. He thanked Rep. Gabbard and the Hawai"i Congressional Delegation for demanding that the federal government make improvements to the system.

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