On the recordFebruary 3, 2021
Madam President, it is good to see you in that Chair, and I am grateful for this opportunity. I just wanted to raise a couple of issues that are relevant to the budget resolution that we are going to be working on over the next few days and beyond. There are so many issues to highlight. I will only mention two issues--two big issues--but I think, most generally, when I consider what we should do, I think it is my belief that we need a substantial, robust bill to meet the moment that we are in. That means dealing with the pandemic effectively and putting the virus behind us by accelerating vaccinations, making sure that we are taking every step possible to open our schools--to reopen schools, I should say, in some cases. Thirdly, to make sure we are helping those who are vulnerable, whether they are folks without a job or folks who are hungry or their families are hungry--so many other traumas that have been heaped upon our families. There is a lot to do, and that requires a substantial investment, not a limited investment. I will just mention two issues today. One is home and community-based services, and the other is childcare and a particular tax credit that is relevant. Home and community-based services, as many people know, have a huge impact on both older citizens--seniors throughout the country--as well as people with disabilities and even has an impact upon children.…





