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For Immediate Release A Conversation with Senator Brubaker Labor and Industry issues debit cards for UC benefits Beginning Oct. 15, new filers for Unemployment Compensation benefits through the state Department of Labor and Industry will be issued a MasterCard debit card instead of paper checks. The new system offers many benefits to claimants as well as to Pennsylvania and taxpayers. Payments will reach claimants faster through electronic payment and will be more secure, since individuals must use unique PINs to access their accounts. Debit card holders can withdraw cash from any ATM or bank teller, and can use the cards at many grocery stores, gas stations and other establishments. The cards also eliminate the need for those without bank accounts to pay check-cashing fees as well. Further, the added security helps reduce fraud. The new process will eliminate staff time spent on paper check processing, with the resulting administrative savings helping to keep employer taxes down. ACS and Comerica are responsible for all costs of operating the UC debit card program, with no charge to the Commonwealth. The Department anticipates $1 million in savings in the first year, and at least $2 million in subsequent years, mainly in reduced costs for printing and mailing checks. Individuals who have existing claims and are not on direct deposit can opt to receive benefits via the debit card or to continue using paper checks until February 2008, at which point all paper checks will be discontinued. Claimants who prefer direct deposit will still have that option. Time for flu shots Unfortunately, the return of colder weather also means the return of flu season, making this a good time to start thinking about getting your annual flu shot. While anyone can get the flu, older individuals, children and those with certain medical conditions are particularly susceptible and can also have more serious cases. Each year, around 36,000 individuals die from influenza-related illnesses and around 200,000 people are hospitalized nationwide. Last year, Pennsylvania's relatively mild flu season began in October and peaked mid-March. However, individuals who were vaccinated last year will not necessarily be protected this year since the virus changes continually, so annual vaccination is recommended. The state Department of Health expects record supplies of the influenza vaccine to be available this year, and is encouraging everyone to talk to their doctors soon about getting one. More information about the flu, as well as help finding a location where you can receive a vaccination, is available at www.health.state.pa.us/flu, or you can find locations through the American Lung Association's web site at www.flucliniclocator.org. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month Sadly, violence and abuse in the home remain a daily occurrence for some women and children. Across the nation, we recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month to bring attention to this critical issue. The display of purple ribbons is used to convey a message against domestic violence and as a reminder of the strength that we have together to help end the cycle of violence. There are many different types of abuse – physical, verbal, sexual, emotional and economic – and no one should ever have to endure any of them. If you or someone you know is being abused, Domestic Violence Services (DVS) of Lancaster County advises leaving the scene immediately to find a safe place, seeking medical assistance if necessary, and calling the 24-hour hotline at 717-299-1249 for immediate assistance. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can also be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE. For more help, information and resources, please see DVS of Lancaster County's web site at www.dvslanc.org.
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