Rep. Takano Statement on House Passage of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Takano (D-Calif.) released this statement following the passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act in the House. This historic $2 trillion COVID-19 relief package includes bold provisions secured by Democrats to protect the health and well-being of the American people.
“After days of negotiations to include strong provisions that prioritize the health and financial well-being of the American people and hold corporations accountable, the House passed an important legislative package to support workers, families, and small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Workers in my district are facing lay-offs and small businesses are having to make tough decisions to stay afloat. As the first day of the month approaches, families are facing a difficult reality – a budget that will not cover their rent, healthcare bills, or utilities payments. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals on the frontlines of the response to this public health crisis are facing shortages of masks and other personal protective equipment to keep themselves and their patients safe. This is why it is so crucial for Congress to act quickly on behalf of the American people.
“The CARES Act provides direct cash payments to families, strengthens unemployment benefits for workers who have lost their jobs or had their hours reduced, and it supports small businesses in our community by including $375 billion in forgivable loans and debt relief for SBA borrowers. This bill also invests $200 billion in our healthcare response to COVID-19 to ensure that nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals have access to the medical supplies they need to save lives.
“This $2 trillion relief bill is far from perfect, but it is an important action Congress has taken to provide direct relief to members of our community who are feeling the economic effects brought about by the response to this pandemic. There is still more work to be done to help every worker and every family in Riverside County and across the country. As we continue fighting for every American, I urge President Trump to sign this legislation quickly and to continue working with us to make sure that no one is left behind in the midst of this pandemic.”
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Dayanara Ramirez (202) 225-2305