Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez, who holds New York’s 7th Congressional District seat, office has sent out a series of updates regarding COVID-19. The updates follow the $480 billion package approved by the Senate on Monday to help small businesses, hospitals, and testing expansion.

New York State’s on PAUSE has been extended through May 15th. New York City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection is continuing to inspect stores based on consumer complaints of price gouging, overcharging consumers 10% or more, and you can make complaints on their 311 page and say “overcharge.” While unemployment is on the rise, there are job opportunities available at New York City Health and Hospitals who need additional workers to transport patients, clerical work, and cleaning staff. 

On a federal level, the IRS has launched two tools helping taxpayers get their payments: you can track your Economic Impact Payments and according to Velazquez, residents are not required to submit a tax return to receive the check for $1,200. Submit basic information to receive the payments here.