Mason Takes Action to Slow Spread of COVID-19, Continues to Provide State Services

GURNEE, Ill. – In response to the rapidly changing circumstances surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, state Rep. Joyce Mason, D-Gurnee, announced Friday she would begin conducting all work that regularly takes place at her constituent service office remotely until further notice. Although Mason’s office is physically closed to the public, all daily district operations, such as assistance with state services and legislation, will continue as usual. Mason also postponed all community events her office was set to host over the next two weeks, including Join Joyce for Coffee and Conversation and her Vietnam Era Veterans Appreciation Ceremony.

“We all have loved ones near to our hearts who are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, and for those individuals, people who are elderly or with certain pre-existing conditions, we must contain this outbreak,” Mason said. “Continuing to represent and serve the residents of our community is of utmost importance to me, and I know we must take every precaution necessary to slow the spread of this disease. I want to assure everyone that my team and I are here for them via telephone and email to provide information, assist with issues, and receive feedback.”

To ease the economic impact caused by COVID-19, Governor J.B. Pritzker has imposed new policies to expand Illinoisans’ access to unemployment benefits. Any resident who misses work due to COVID-19 and is without access to paid sick leave will now be eligible to receive unemployment insurance. To further address the financial hardship caused by the virus, the governor also announced several Illinois utility companies will be implementing a moratorium on service shut-offs and late payment fees. For additional information, please contact Mason’s constituent service office at 847-485-9986 or info@repjoycemason.com.

“I’m proud of the leadership I’ve seen from our governor and from our state director of public health. Their swift and decisive actions will reduce the rate of COVID-19 infections in our state and save countless lives,” Mason said. “Above all, I believe in the people of my community, and I believe in the people of Illinois. We are strong, we are compassionate, and we are resilient; and we will get through this trying time together.”