Dear fellow South Carolinians,

Thank you for subscribing to my weekly e-newsletter, and please remember to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Today, I have returned to the Capitol with my Senate colleagues. While practicing social distancing and taking all possible preventative measures, we are convening once again to ensure that our work on behalf of the American people continues. 


Expanded Testing to Protect the Vulnerable
Last Wednesday, I wrote letters to both U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Alex Azar and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, expressing my concern for the health of providers and patients in long-term care facilities.

In my letter to Secretary Azar, I asked that he prioritize rapid point-of-care testing capacity for facilities such as nursing homes. Research suggests that proactive testing policies and enhanced testing access could significantly reduce death rates for older populations. I also stressed the importance of expanding testing for underserved communities across the country. You can read the full letter here.

I echoed these thoughts in my letter to Governor McMaster, asking that he, too, prioritize rapid point-of-care testing capacity for long-term care facilities and expanded testing access for communities of color and other at-risk populations. You can also read that full letter here.


PPP Loan Forgiveness
On Friday, Senator Doug Jones (D-AL) and I called for the Small Business Administration and the Treasury Department to release more guidance and clarification on loan forgiveness for small businesses who have applied for assistance under the Paycheck Protection Program.

Our letter, addressed to Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and SBA Administrator Jovita Carranz, asks that regulations surrounding loan forgiveness be laid out clearly so small businesses can make the best decisions on how to spend PPP funding. You can read the full letter here.


Sharing Good News:
The COVID-19 crisis has certainly taken its toll on our state, but it has also shined a light on the resiliency, selflessness, and steadfastness of South Carolinians.

Throughout the past weeks, I have been encouraged by stories of both businesses and individuals across the state – from health care workers to truck drivers to grocery store employees – who have gone above and beyond to help their neighbors in need.

In an effort to showcase and thank these everyday heroes, I have partnered with folks across the state to compile and highlight positive stories during this time. The first installment of this series, titled #TSGoodNews, can be viewed on my Facebook, Instagram, or  Twitter pages.

If you have good news to share, please email [email protected] to tell your story.


Resources:
If you are feeling ill, click here for information from the South Carolina Hospital Association on tele-health options. More complete information on resources for South Carolinians is also available on my website or my Facebook page.

As you may be aware, Governor McMaster has lifted the statewide “Work-or-Home” order as he continues opening parts of the economy. If progress is to continue, it is absolutely vital that everyone remain committed to following public health guidelines. Please remember to wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds, use cloth masks in public (leaving medical-grade masks for medical personnel), and – critically – stay home when feeling ill. More CDC guidelines and other helpful tools are available at www.coronavirus.gov. 

Thank you all, once again, for the sacrifices you have made during this time in order to keep yourselves and fellow South Carolinians safe. This is a battle that we will certainly win by fighting together.


Sincerely,

 
Tim