Friend,

Working people like you just won a huge victory!

President Joe Biden just signed into law the American Rescue Plan, a major COVID stimulus bill that will provide much-needed aid to millions of Americans.

Here are some of the most important parts of this relief bill:

Direct payments of $1,400 are going to 85% of American households: People making less than $75,000/year and married couples making under $150,000/year can expect stimulus payments. According to estimates, a typical middle-class family of four will receive $5,600 in direct checks to keep food on the table, pay bills and keep a roof over their heads.

Extends emergency unemployment benefits: Pandemic unemployment payments that were set to expire this month have been extended through September 2021. This includes the extra $300 weekly supplement to unemployment benefits.

Lifts 4 million children out of poverty by expanding the Child and Dependent Care Tax credit: Additionally, the bill provides grants to states to help low-income families afford child care.

Funding for vaccine distribution: In addition to helping get Americans vaccinated, funding also goes to increase testing and production of PPE.

Much-needed aid to help schools re-open safely: Grants will allow K-12 schools to reopen in a way that puts teachers’ and students’ health and safety first.

Food aid to families in need: The bill extends a 15% increase to monthly SNAP benefits to keep children, people with disabilities and the elderly fed.

Assistance for rent and mortgage payments to prevent evictions and foreclosures: Funding will also go to emergency public housing vouchers and to addressing homelessness in the U.S.

And much, much more!

Working families across the country have struggled for nearly a year since COVID devastated our economy and changed our lives. Finally, we’re starting to get the relief that so many have needed for so long.

Make no mistake: This is the direct result of working people joining together and making their voices heard at the ballot box and beyond. When we demand more from elected officials, educate our friends and families on key issues, and vote according to our values, we have the power to make huge changes both locally and nationally. When we work together, we can build an economy and democracy that works for everyone, not just the ultra-rich.

We still have a while to go before we can get back to normal, but the American Rescue Plan is a much-needed step toward re-building our economy and eradicating COVID.

In solidarity,

Sydney Roberts

Working America

815 16th St. NW | Washington, D.C. 20006 | (202) 637-5137