Friend,
This week, negotiations are coming down to the wire in the House and Senate to pass emergency legislation to address the health and economic crisis caused by coronavirus.
At this very hour, negotiations are continuing, and I'm hopeful that we'll get to a deal soon, because we have no time to waste.
Democrats are standing strong on the principle that a relief package has to put working families first, not corporate bailouts with no strings attached.
Here's what I think must be in any final deal:
- Direct relief to families: Families should get immediate checks with no phase-out for low income families, and we must increase unemployment insurance -- including for those like contractors, freelancers and gig economy workers who traditionally aren't covered.
- Help for healthcare workers: Hospitals, doctors, nurses, first responders and states on the front lines need help, from ventilators and personal protective equipment like masks to hospital beds. If the President won't use the Defense Production Act, we must act.
- Relief for small businesses: Millions of small businesses are struggling to stay afloat and pay their employees. We must provide additional assistance, in grants, no-interest loans, and increased funding to help get them through this economic crisis.
- No "slush fund" for big business: Our focus should be American families and small businesses, not corporate executives. An earlier version of this legislation pushed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell included a $500 billion dollar slush fund with few restrictions and few requirements to avoid layoffs, where states have to compete for funds with big businesses, and with no oversight, transparency, or protections for taxpayers. That must be off the table.
- Protection of our democracy: The health of our democracy is also important. All states should allow no-excuse vote by mail and a fifteen day early voting period to ensure all voters are able to make their voices heard during this crisis.
We need to be helping American families and small businesses first. I favor an approach that would have the federal government help by guaranteeing payroll so that we can avoid layoffs altogether.
If you agree, can you add your name to join me in calling on Congress to pass emergency legislation to help American families and small businesses first?
There are other steps that may also be essential, like freezing rents and evictions, deferring mortgage payments, and suspending student debt throughout the duration of this crisis.
But I want to say this: we will get through this crisis. And America is strongest when we're acting with unity, with purpose, and when we are looking out for each other. I hope that you and your family are staying healthy, safe and sane during these trying times. And thanks for all you do.
All my best,
Adam
