June 4, 2020

Dear Friends,

Governor Abbott announced Phase 3 of reopening Texas yesterday, eliminating occupancy limits on things such as religious services, and raising occupancy limits for businesses such as restaurants.

National Updates
National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Francis Collins and Dr. Ned Sharpless discussed the need for reliable COVID-19 antibody testing.

Health and Human Services issued laboratory data reporting guidance and an FAQ document to standardize reporting among labs so that data is more comprehensive and up-to-date.

The Internal Revenue Service announced that non-filers have until October 15 to submit payment information in order to receive their economic impact payment by the end of the year.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services posted the first set of underlying COVID-19 nursing home data.

The Food and Drug Administration announced a new web-based resource,Testing Supply Substitution Strategies, that contains information to help support labs performing authorized COVID-19 tests, specifically when facing supply issues.

Texas Updates
The National Guard will set up a mobile testing site in Denton County on June 5 at the Frederick Herring Recreation Center in Lewisville. To make an appointment, visit txcovidtest.org or call 512-883-2400.

Until next time, this is your doctor's note.

Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D.