State Rep. Michael Webber, of Rochester Hills, this week voted in favor of a new emergency budget plan providing an additional $125 million to help Oakland County and communities across Michigan respond to coronavirus.

The measure, garnering unanimous support in the House, brings the total state funding approved to $150 million, including the $25 million approved by the Legislature last week. The plan will provide $50 million for immediate needs such as virus monitoring and testing, $50 million for critical health care providers to expand capacity for coronavirus response, and $50 million to keep in reserve for when necessary.

The measure also will make it easier to use federal assistance related to COVID-19.

“A lot has transpired over the past week, causing great concern for Oakland County residents,” Webber said. “It’s important to understand both state and local health care professionals are working around the clock to mitigate the spread of the virus and protect Michigan residents. To bolster the state’s response, I voted to approve $125 million to assist virus monitoring, testing and infection control, as well as provide our local health care providers with the tools they need to keep families safe. We’re going to get through this, but it’s going to take everyone doing their part to help curtail further spread.”

Webber also noted the Michigan Department of Treasury today announced it will allot more time for small businesses that have experienced a disruption in operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic to make their sales, use and withholding tax monthly payment. Webber said the Treasury’s move to postpone filing and payment requirements for small businesses until April 20 is encouraging.

“As a state, we are certainly in unchartered waters when it comes to effectively mitigating the spread of this virus,” Webber said. “Aggressive action has been taken, and many Oakland County small businesses and employees are taking a hard hit. I want to thank the department for understanding the importance of the state’s small business community and its contribution to Michigan’s economy by providing this tax assistance. This relief will go a long way in helping these businesses to navigate their way through this state emergency.”

Webber said the best way to prevent illness is through preventative steps which include:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
• Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.

Webber said residents interested in seeking additional, reliable information about the COVID-19 outbreak can visit www.michigan.gov/Coronavirus and www.CDC.gov/Coronavirus. Specific information regarding tax assistance for small businesses can be found on the Michigan Department of Treasury website by visiting www.michigan.gov/treasury.

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