22 Dec COVID Relief Offers a First Step, but More Action Needed

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 21, 2020
Contact: Will Pregman, wpregman@battlebornprogress.org, 702.752.0656

LAS VEGAS, NV – Today, after months of stalling, a bipartisan COVID relief package by Congress, was finally passed by the House and Senate.

Annette Magnus, Executive Director of Battle Born Progress, said:

“After eight months of on-again, off-again negotiations since the House passed the HEROES Act, Congress has finally approved a bipartisan relief package. This package will protect millions of Americans by extending deadlines for unemployment benefits, the CDC eviction moratorium and rental assistance, student loan forbearance, and by increasing funding for other key programs that people need to make it through COVID. This bill is a glimmer of hope to the millions of Americans who are still unemployed, have lost their health care coverage, are struggling to pay rent or put enough food on the table. While this long overdue package is welcome, it should only be seen as a step in the right direction towards a more comprehensive relief and stimulus package Americans will need in early 2021.”

“While this modest package was an achievement given Republican Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s obstinance, it excludes some key provisions that are central to getting the nation back on track. For instance, McConnell refused to include funding for struggling cities and states that will be needed next year to stop layoffs, and fund essential services, including education,  transportation, and public safety services like fire departments and emergency medical response. 

Nevada is facing a $1.2 billion shortfall next year that will devastate jobs and services without additional federal relief dollars, and make our already long road to recovery even more dire. Meanwhile, COVID cases continue to skyrocket and over 317,000 have died. Congress must provide increased funding for Medicaid to states in order to help our overstretched health care workers in hospitals, ensure that health services are not cut and increase access to health care for millions who have lost their coverage. 

We thank all members of Nevada’s congressional delegation for voting to pass this relief package today.When President-Elect Biden and the newly elected Congress return in January, they must get to work right away on comprehensive relief that addresses the full scope of the crisis and get this virus and the economy under control.” 

SPOKESPEOPLE ARE AVAILABLE FOR COMMENT IN ENGLISH AND SPANISH

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