Progress Towards a COVID-19 Vaccine
Earlier this week, Pfizer and BioNTech SE announced that their COVID-19 vaccine candidate was found to be 90% effective in preventing COVID-19 during their Phase 3 clinical study.
Thanks to Operation Warp Speed, if this potentially life-saving vaccine is approved by the FDA, 100 million doses will be ready for distribution and Americans will be able to receive the vaccine in record time and free of cost.
As a reminder, any approved vaccine must meet the high safety and efficacy standards required by the FDA. The FDA has published transparent guidance that outlines what is required for a COVID-19 vaccine approval. Additionally, you can visit the Louisiana Department of Health’s website for more information on how our state is preparing their COVID-19 vaccine distribution strategy.
An Update on COVID-19 Relief
Republicans and Democrats both agree on the need for targeted relief for Americans suffering from the economic and health effects of the Coronavirus crisis, yet Speaker Nancy Pelosi refuses to negotiate in good faith.
Congress appropriated $659 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. Evidence shows the PPP supported more than 51 million jobs across the country. Currently, $138 billion in PPP funding remains unspent.
I’m continuing to advocate for legislation that will extend the unused funds in the PPP to provide additional targeted relief to our struggling workers and small businesses. This week, I joined WWL Radio to discuss my thoughts on where COVID-19 relief negotiations are headed.
Honoring Veterans Day
To all of our veterans—THANK YOU for bravely serving our country and fighting to defend our freedoms. We get to live in the greatest nation on earth because of you, and America is grateful for your sacrifices.
