WASHINGTON (AP) — The House has approved legislation to provide direct relief to Americans suffering physically, financially and emotionally from the coronavirus pandemic.
The action comes after President Donald Trump declared the outbreak a national emergency, freeing up money and resources to fight it, then threw his support behind the congressional package.
Still, he has denied any responsibility for delays in making testing available for the new virus, whose spread has roiled markets and disrupted the lives of everyday Americans.
The aid package from Congress would provide free tests, sick pay for workers and bolster food programs. The crush of activity caps a tumultuous week in Washington.
The legislation has gotten mixed reaction from local representatives. 2nd District Congresswoman Jackie Walorski supported the bill, saying the legislation will provide critical relief for working families. 3rd District Congressman Jim Banks voted against it, saying some language will mean major harm for small businesses and greases the skids for massive bailout packages for industries forced to implement these costly policies.
Rep. Jackie Walorski released the following statement:
“As a country, we’re stronger when we work together. Congress and the Trump administration are putting politics aside and putting American families first. This bipartisan legislation will provide critical relief for working families impacted by coronavirus, including paid sick leave and nutrition assistance for low-income households with children whose schools are closed.
“Over the last days and weeks, I’ve been working constantly with federal, state, and local health officials to ensure those on the front lines have the tools and information they need to keep Hoosiers safe and healthy. Along with President Trump’s national emergency declaration, this bill ensures diagnostic testing is free for patients and will get vital resources to health care workers faster. It also maintains important pro-life protections.
“I urge everyone to continue exercising simple but important precautions: wash your hands often, avoid touching your face, avoid large gatherings, and stay home if you’re sick.”
Rep. Jim Banks released the following statement:
“On the heels of a massive $8.3 billion emergency spending package, Speaker Pelosi rushed a second short-sighted emergency bill, passed in the middle of the night and behind closed doors, that does more harm than good.
“While there are some good things in the bill, we don’t know the final price tag. Some language will mean major harm for small businesses and our economy. Moreover, it greases the skids for massive bailout packages for industries forced to implement these costly policies. Our national debt is nearing $23.5 trillion–our children’s generation can’t afford it.
“Congress should have stuck with writing a narrow bill that ensures testing availability and support for American families directly affected by COVID-19. Instead, it chose to radically expand the welfare state and set the scene for future spending.”
