Friends —

Team Warner hopes that you and your loved ones are staying safe and healthy. We will continue to send weekly updates to keep folks around the Commonwealth up to date with what Mark Warner is working on in the Senate to get Virginians the help they need during this difficult time.

Here’s just some of what Mark is working on this week:

• Mark introduced his Paycheck Security Act to cover the cost of paychecks and benefits for workers who have been laid off or furloughed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Right now, that’s more than 39 million Americans, a rate that rivals the Great Depression. This bill would not only cover payroll expenses, it would reconnect people with critical benefits, like health insurance.


• Earlier this week, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) accepted Mark and Tim Kaine’s petition to include Virginia in a pilot program to modernize Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This will expand access to food for families across the Commonwealth.


• Following up on expanded SNAP benefits, Mark and Tim Kaine co-sponsored legislation to allow those receiving SNAP benefits to get their food from restaurants. Their bill, the COVID-19 Anti-Hunger Restaurant Relief for You Act of 2020, or the SNAP CARRY Act, would decrease food insecurity while giving local restaurants that opt in support during this challenging time.


• Mark joined a bi-partisan group of senators in urging Senate leadership to increase support for first responders in the next coronavirus relief package. Their proposal would bridge the gap in paid sick leave for first responders and provide hazard pay for federal firefighters, among other initiatives.


• Mark and a bi-partisan group of senators are working hard to make sure that our coal miners have adequate protection during this outbreak. Mining is already a dangerous job, and Mark is committed to making sure that miners have the safeguards they need during the coronavirus pandemic.


• Mark spoke with local leaders in Southwest Virginia about the impact of coronavirus in their communities. He is committed to making sure that any relief packages from the Senate adequately address challenges faced by communities across the Commonwealth.

As our country faces this challenging time, Mark is committed to rolling up his sleeves and working until every American has access to the information and resources they need. On behalf of our entire team, we thank you for your support — you are what keeps us going!

— Team Warner