Over the past few days, Governor JB Pritzker has been offering daily updates and guidelines on some of the measures recommended to ensure minimal spreading of the coronavirus.

While the coronavirus is changing how we go about our daily lives, it’s important to remain calm and to take proper precautions. Right now, the best possible thing you can do to help is to stay home unless it’s absolutely necessary to venture out.  Regardless of your health or age, it is vital that we take this recommendation seriously, as preventing further spread of the disease is the key to keeping you, your family, and our community healthy.

On Monday, Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced the closure of all secretary of state and driver services facilities until March 31, 2020 due to coronavirus and the need to social distance.

However, there’s no need to worry if you need to update your license or registration. Expiration dates for driver’s licenses, identification cards, vehicle registrations and other transactions will be extended by 30 days through an emergency rule.

Additionally, Gov. JB Pritzker announced over the weekend the closure of all bars and dine-in restaurants for two weeks. I am aware the affect this could potentially have on those in the service industry.

Workers who are unemployed due to coronavirus or do not have access to paid sick leave will be able to apply for economic assistance through the Illinois Department of Employment Security. More information can be found by calling 1-800-244-5631.

For businesses affected, the Small Business Administration is providing disaster assistance loans for small businesses impacted by COVID-19. Please visit www.sba.gov/coronavirus for more information.

In order to apply for an emergency injury disaster declaration from the Small Business Administration, Illinois needs data from businesses across the state. If your business has been affected by COVID-19, please complete this online survey.

Our state’s governmental and economic leaders are stepping up to do their part in helping our people during this immensely difficult time. They know as well as I do that now, more than ever, it’s vital that we watch out for one another.

If you have any questions, please contact my district office at 847-945-5200. The office is closed, but we will continue to access voicemails and emails.

Continue to check my Facebook page and the Illinois Department of Public Health’s website for daily updates.