GOVERNOR’S BRIEFING
Today, Governor JB Pritzker‘s briefing focused on testing.
SNAP
The federal government expanded SNAP eligibility to the families of children who are on free or reduced school lunch and those families are not already receiving SNAP. Illinois has filed the paperwork for the necessary waiver and anticipates approval at any moment. To-date, nine states have been approved including Michigan and Missouri. Assuming the Illinois wavier is approved, these supplemental benefits will be distributed from April 20th-30th. Once IRMA has the monetary estimates for each day from the Department we will provide it.
Retailers need to be aware that these SNAP recipients will have a different SNAP card. You may view the card here. The mechanics of the card are the same as the usual SNAP card.
CHICAGO TAXES
Please note that the City of Chicago is extending payment for taxes due in February, March and April to June 1st for select taxes. Taxes affected are listed below and you can read the announcement here.
Restaurant Tax
Hotel Accommodations Tax
Bottled Water Tax
Checkout Bag Tax
Ground Transportation Tax
Parking Tax
Amusement Tax
PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM
This morning, the US Small Business Administration announced that the funding appropriate by the US Congress for the popular Paycheck Protection Program has run out. As a result, the SBA will not process further applications until additional monies are appropriated. Please contact your US Senators and your US Congresswoman/Congressman and ask them to immediately approve additional appropriations for the program. You may find your elected officials and their contact information here.
ILLINOIS COVID-19 IMPACT UPDATE
Dr. Ngozi Ezike, MD, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health announced 1,140 new cases in Illinois, including 125 additional deaths. Currently, IDPH is reporting a total of 25,733 cases, to date, including 1,072 deaths, in 90 of Illinois’ 102 counties. Additional information can be found here. COVID-19 stats by zip code can be found here.