Schneider Statement on Vote for Heroes Act

Statement

Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL) released the following statement on his vote in favor of the Heroes Act, the House's next more than $3 trillion legislative package to respond to the public health and economic consequences of the coronavirus crisis:

"The COVID pandemic is an unprecedented crisis requiring unprecedented actions. We have to take bold and big actions to protect the lives and livelihoods of the American people, and to secure a bright future for the American economy. The Heroes Act, while not perfect, is an important, forward-looking response to the extraordinary health and economic challenges immediately posed by the crisis.

"For our states and localities stretched dangerously thin on the frontlines of this crisis, the Heroes Act commits nearly $1 trillion to ensure the health care workers, police, fire, transportation, EMS, teachers and other vital workers who keep us safe can stay on the job, while also creating a fund to issue hazard pay to essential workers.

"Critical to the science-based path our nation needs to safely reopen, the legislation commits $75 billion for the testing, tracing and treatment and to helping ensure that every American can access free coronavirus treatment.

"In addition, the Heroes Act would also create a second round of direct economic stimulus payments, provide additional support for small businesses, and make critical investments in health security, housing security, food security, and the US Postal Service."

"Today's vote is obviously not the last word. It's imperative that the Senate and the White House now work together with the House to swiftly refine and finalize this next coronavirus relief package. We must not let partisan gridlock continue while so many families, communities, and small businesses are on the brink. Today's legislation is a strong starting point and a clear statement of the House's priorities that I urge the Senate to take up without delay."

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