Louie Bernard, Senator-District 31
Louisiana has found itself in the crosshairs of the Coronavirus pandemic. It is unlike anything many of us have seen before. I don’t possess the medical expertise to second guess the measures Governor Edwards has implemented for our state. I believe he has acted responsibly and with the interests of Louisiana in mind.
My heart aches for those whose businesses and livelihoods have been threatened by those policies put in place to rein in the spread of this virus. As a colleague said two weeks ago at the Capitol, “we can either take a tough stance and get this over with, or let it dribble out to its inevitable end.” Three weeks ago, Louisiana had “0” cases of the Coronavirus. One week later, it had 97 cases. This past Sunday, there were 897 cases confirmed. This is an alarming increase and, on a per capita basis, makes it imperative that we take initiatives to flatten the curve.
For those businesses reeling from the ripple effects of this virus, unemployment insurance will play a role. SBA loans will be made available to assist businesses in bridging the gap. Federal stimulus packages are being finalized in Congress that will directly benefit families who qualify. I have no doubt that there will be more such packages in the days to come.
Legislators have refrained from daily instructions on how to best cope with the Coronavirus. This information is more appropriately provided by the Governor’s office, the LA Department of Health, the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, and the President’s team of health officials. Detailed instructions can be seen at any time of the day on television, radio, newspapers, and social media. I urge you to stay updated on these directives.
Please be vigilant. Observe social distancing to the greatest degree possible. Help our restaurants by ordering take-out until this danger is past. Someone said, “tough times never last . . tough people do!” I firmly believe that. And I know for certain, “this, too, shall pass.”
If our office can help you in any way, please call 318-357-3116, or my personal cell 318-663-0747.
Anyone remember that sci-fi movie “Starman”? The alien says to his new Earthling friend ( a woman):
“We have been watching you for many years. You know what we find remarkable about you…you humans are at your best when things are at their worst.”
Let’s all take those sage words to heart.
Timely, well written and encouraging. Our prayers are with you.