Friend --

Next week, the Senate will be back in session. And the #1 item on the agenda should be to respond to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

But Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has prohibited the Senate from acting on the House bill that was sent to the Senate in May. While he refuses to take action, millions of Americans are left without:

• $600 weekly unemployment insurance supplements
• More $$ needed for coronavirus testing
• Funds to our state and local governments, who are in dire need of relief
• Assistance to our schools, whether they choose to open in person or not
• Funding for the U.S. Postal Service to make sure absentee ballots and vote-by-mail are delivered and returned in a timely manner
• Millions needed to prepare for vaccine distribution so that when approved, it can be rolled out rapidly

Funding for these essential services -- and more -- is included in the House's bill, passed back in May.

Each week that we do not take substantial action, millions more Americans are losing their jobs and are being evicted from their homes. It's unconscionable.

Contrary to what the president says or the meaningless executive orders he releases, this is the responsibility of the Senate and needs to be our #1 priority when we return to session next week. Americans are counting on us.

If you agree that passing a new relief bill should be the Senate's #1 priority when we return to session on Tuesday, add your name here.

Thank you for taking action.

Sincerely,

Patrick Leahy
U.S. Senator