On the recordMarch 27, 2020
Mr. Speaker, we have never faced a public health threat of this magnitude. Hardworking people have lost their jobs and are on the edge of making rent or putting food on the table. That is why our rescue efforts have been focused on people. This bill offers additional unemployment benefits, injects billions into our healthcare system, provides billions to small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll, and gives every eligible adult a $1,200 check and $500 for every eligible child. However, this bill isn't perfect. It leaves out immigrants who contribute to our economy, pay taxes, and are also on the front lines of this pandemic. This virus does not discriminate based on immigration status or race, and our response shouldn't either. However, despite this shortcoming, I do plan to vote for this bill, and I urge all of my colleagues to do the same. Hardworking families are at risk. They need help now. Many lives are at stake.





