May 28, 2020

Rodric Bray

Senate President Pro Tempore (IN)

“The COVID-19 pandemic is creating real challenges for our citizens and governments across America. With Governor Holcomb's leadership, we have tried to make informed decisions based on science and real data. For that reason, we have had some success slowing the spread of this virus. That has allowed our governor to lay out a five-stage plan to reopen our economy, giving our citizens a clear view of how we will get back to work.

“Indiana has also partnered with Indiana University to conduct a scientific study of how many Hoosiers have or have had COVID-19 and whether they were symptomatic. This data-driven approach was highlighted by The New York Times and will help our state make informed decisions as we continue to navigate this unprecedented situation.”

May 28, 2020

Page Cortez

President of the Senate (LA)

“Louisiana is no stranger to adversity and our greatest asset is our citizenry. We entered the COVID-19 pandemic scene with one of the highest growth rates in the world and it quickly became clear that New Orleans was a ‘hot spot’ for the virus. Despite these statistics, the dedication of our leaders combined with the resiliency of our residents ensured that this trajectory was quickly controlled. While the threat posed by the virus continues, we are increasingly encouraged by data that reflects fewer cases, deaths, and hospitalizations. And, as our first priority remains the health and safety of our people, it is also our obligation to protect the livelihoods of our small business owners and support economic recovery across the state.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature as we move forward with our 2020 Regular Legislative Session and into a special session. We are working diligently to do the people’s work while balancing the welfare of our citizens as we reopen Louisiana.”

May 18, 2020

Brent Hill

Senate President Pro Tempore (ID)

“I was so looking forward to getting back together with my friends from SPF, but that too will have to wait a while. Our hearts go out to those of you from states that have been hit hard by COVID-19.

“The damage to Idaho has been relatively light so far. Our governor reacted early and decisively, not only to the health crisis but also by effectively utilizing the federal disaster funds we received. Like many states, Idaho’s economy is reopening in stages. We just entered Stage 2, and over 95% of our businesses are now authorized to open with appropriate safeguards. The White House has recognized Idaho as an example and we are always willing to share anything that might help other states. You can check out our approach on the Idaho Rebounds website and, of course, you are always welcome to contact me directly. Best wishes. Hope to see you soon!”

April 29, 2020

Ron Kouchi
President of the Senate (HI)

April 22, 2020

Stuart Adams
President of the Senate (UT)

“In Utah, we aim to move into a new phase while maintaining many of the same efforts that have been effective in slowing the spread of COVID-19 and crushing the curve. Our current stay-at-home practices are not sustainable economically. We need a thoughtful, data-driven approach that will help get Utahns back to work without causing a resurgence of cases. The Utah Legislature convened in a virtual special session on April 16 to consider policies and address urgent needs — the House Speaker and I were in the Capitol, and the rest of the Legislature participated via video conferencing. We’re working hard to protect both lives and livelihoods.”

Karen Fann
President of the Senate (AZ)

“Arizona has been very blessed with good weather and a strong economy which is helping us get through the COVID-19 epidemic. As of April 9, we had 3,018 confirmed cases and 89 deaths. We are hoping the apex will peak in the next two weeks which will allow us to start the recovering process. If you would like more details about how we are handling the epidemic, go to ArizonaTogether.org or search Arizona Senate Republicans. My prayers are with all of you and your families and I’m looking forward to when our ‘family’ can enjoy our friendships again in person.”

May 21, 2020

Intuit

Anika Hagenson, Sr. Manager, State Government Relations, shared that Intuit continues to create resources to help individuals and small businesses navigate the complexity of finances during COVID-19. “Intuit announced an investment of more than $8 million through several initiatives in late March, and we’re not stopping there,” said Anika. The maker of TurboTax, QuickBooks, and Mint developed a free online tool to calculate federal stimulus payments and help those who don’t file taxes to register with the IRS, assess federal PPP loan eligibility and apply for funds through QuickBooks Capital, and to help individuals understand how to apply for unemployment and adjust their own budgets.  Learn more about Intuit’s resources here.

May 20, 2020

Walmart

Walmart has undertaken significant efforts to ensure the health of communities and associates during the COVID-19 crisis, reports Gerard Dehrmann, Walmart’s Senior Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations. The company has partnered with states and local municipalities to provide PPE, other essential items, services, and operational assistance. Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have committed more than $35M in cash and in-kind donations to combatting COVID-19 and supporting workers on the frontlines. In response to a request from HHS, Walmart opened drive-through testing sites in many of its parking lots, notably in hot spots and underserved areas. Walmart has hired 200,000 associates since the beginning of the pandemic, and has committed nearly $1B in bonuses for their associates in recognition for their outstanding contributions and ongoing efforts. Learn more about Walmart’s efforts here.

April 22, 2020

The Proctor & Gamble Company

Beth Percynski, Senior Manager, State Government Relations, described the efforts P&G is currently pursuing under the banner “Stepping Up as a Force for Good.”  In addition to providing product donations and financial support to in-need communities, P&G installed new lines to start production of hand sanitizer which will help ensure safe internal operations and is being shared with hospitals, health authorities, and relief organizations.  Work is also underway to produce critically needed face masks.  Learn more about P&G’s efforts here.

Novartis

Novartis has been quick to mobilize its expertise and philanthropic aid in response to COVID-19, reports Tommy Suter, Director of State Government Affairs. Initiatives include a commitment to donate up to 130 million doses of hydroxychloroquine; the development of a COVID-19 Response Fund, which will provide $120M in support of impacted communities around the world; and several efforts to leverage Novartis’ capabiliites in discovery, development and scale-up manufacturing. Read more here.

April 15, 2020

Anthem

Kevin Riordan, Regional Vice President, Federal Affairs, checked in with an update on Anthem’s COVID-related initiatives in support of local communities, including several steps to ensure access to care; cost-free telehealth services for physical and behavioral health; paid leave for Anthem medical professionals to support COVID care providers; plus expanded coverage for members undergoing treatment related to a COVID-19 diagnosis. Read more here.

May 28, 2020

​Rodric Bray

Senate President Pro Tempore (IN)

“The COVID-19 pandemic is creating real challenges for our citizens and governments across America. With Governor Holcomb's leadership, we have tried to make informed decisions based on science and real data. For that reason, we have had some success slowing the spread of this virus. That has allowed our governor to lay out a five-stage plan to reopen our economy, giving our citizens a clear view of how we will get back to work.

“Indiana has also partnered with Indiana University to conduct a scientific study of how many Hoosiers have or have had COVID-19 and whether they were symptomatic. This data-driven approach was highlighted by The New York Times and will help our state make informed decisions as we continue to navigate this unprecedented situation.”

May 28, 2020

​Page Cortez

President of the Senate (LA)

“Louisiana is no stranger to adversity and our greatest asset is our citizenry. We entered the COVID-19 pandemic scene with one of the highest growth rates in the world and it quickly became clear that New Orleans was a ‘hot spot’ for the virus. Despite these statistics, the dedication of our leaders combined with the resiliency of our residents ensured that this trajectory was quickly controlled. While the threat posed by the virus continues, we are increasingly encouraged by data that reflects fewer cases, deaths, and hospitalizations. And, as our first priority remains the health and safety of our people, it is also our obligation to protect the livelihoods of our small business owners and support economic recovery across the state.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues in the legislature as we move forward with our 2020 Regular Legislative Session and into a special session. We are working diligently to do the people’s work while balancing the welfare of our citizens as we reopen Louisiana.”

May 18, 2020

​Brent Hill

Senate President Pro Tempore (ID)

“I was so looking forward to getting back together with my friends from SPF, but that too will have to wait a while. Our hearts go out to those of you from states that have been hit hard by COVID-19.

“The damage to Idaho has been relatively light so far. Our governor reacted early and decisively, not only to the health crisis but also by effectively utilizing the federal disaster funds we received. Like many states, Idaho’s economy is reopening in stages. We just entered Stage 2, and over 95% of our businesses are now authorized to open with appropriate safeguards. The White House has recognized Idaho as an example and we are always willing to share anything that might help other states. You can check out our approach on the Idaho Rebounds website and, of course, you are always welcome to contact me directly. Best wishes. Hope to see you soon!”

April 29, 2020

​Ron Kouchi
President of the Senate (HI)

April 22, 2020

​Stuart Adams
President of the Senate (UT)

“In Utah, we aim to move into a new phase while maintaining many of the same efforts that have been effective in slowing the spread of COVID-19 and crushing the curve. Our current stay-at-home practices are not sustainable economically. We need a thoughtful, data-driven approach that will help get Utahns back to work without causing a resurgence of cases. The Utah Legislature convened in a virtual special session on April 16 to consider policies and address urgent needs — the House Speaker and I were in the Capitol, and the rest of the Legislature participated via video conferencing. We’re working hard to protect both lives and livelihoods.”

​Karen Fann
President of the Senate (AZ)

“Arizona has been very blessed with good weather and a strong economy which is helping us get through the COVID-19 epidemic. As of April 9, we had 3,018 confirmed cases and 89 deaths. We are hoping the apex will peak in the next two weeks which will allow us to start the recovering process. If you would like more details about how we are handling the epidemic, go to ArizonaTogether.org or search Arizona Senate Republicans. My prayers are with all of you and your families and I’m looking forward to when our ‘family’ can enjoy our friendships again in person.”