Governor’s Office Daily COVID-19 Q & A
April 16, 2020
Meat Packing and Food Processing
Q: Smithfield pork producers is closing for two weeks under quarantine. The company has
stated that this will cause a decline in pork production and supply. Have there been any
conversations about the Illinois supply chain on meat packing plants and other food
processing?
A: The Governor’s Executive Order deemed agriculture and food production to be essential,
while mandating that those operations comply with social distancing requirements. As a result,
the State’s food supply is strong. There is no shortage of pork products in Illinois for
consumers, and there will be no shortage as a result of the Smithfield temporary closure.
Stimulus
Q: What if an individual does not have a traditional bank account or have internet access to
review the IRS website?
A: If you have filed your 2019 tax return and you did not receive a refund via direct deposit,
your payment will be mailed to the address on file for you. This is generally the address on your
most recent return or as updated through the United States Postal Service (USPS). For those
that do have access to the internet, additional information for tax related questions can be
found on IDOR’s webpage: https://www2.illinois.gov/rev/Pages/Taxpayer-Resources-during-COVID-19-(Coronavirus)-Outbreak.aspx.
Unemployment
Q: Would beauticians be considered “self-employed sole proprietors”?
A: Yes, beauticians are considered self-employed sole proprietors.
ISBE
Q: What if a school district has a question regarding special education?
A: ISBE developed guidance regarding special education, which is available
at www.isbe.net/Documents/School-Closure-SpED-Guidance.pdf.
Business Compliance
Q: Are building security systems contractors considered to be essential?
A: Yes. Building security systems contractors are deemed critical trades under Section 12(h) of
the Stay-at-Home Executive Order 10, and as extended by Executive Order 18, as they ensure
the safety of residences, Essential Activities and Essential Businesses and
Operations. Businesses and employees with questions can call the Department of Commerce
and Economic Opportunity COVID-19 hotline at 1-800-252-2923 or
email CEO.support@illinois.gov.
Q: Is safety towing of damaged or disabled vehicles an essential operation?
A: Yes. Towing damaged or disabled vehicles from public roadways is necessary for essential
travel. Businesses and employees with questions can call the Department of Commerce and
Economic Opportunity COVID-19 hotline at 1-800-252-2923 or email CEO.support@illinois.gov.
Other
Q: Is there any financial assistance available for veterans with disabilities or retirees?
A: In response to COVID-19, additional aid has not been made available specifically to veterans
through the Federal legislative packages. The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs is always
available to assist veterans in need of assistance. For specific questions on available
programming and services, you can go to their website or fill out the Stand Up and Be Counted
Form for IDVA to contact you. Another option is to call 800-827-1000 to speak with your federal
Department of Veterans’ Affairs regional office.