Yesterday, theHouse passed theHEROES Actafter spending weeks working to create an adequate response to thereality of our current national economic and health crisis. NETWORK worked closely with House members to include our top priorities for workers and families in this legislation, namely: cash assistance, funding for nutrition and housing assistance, extended unemployment insurance, expanded paid leave, and funding to protect our elections.
TheCatholic Sisters and activists of NETWORK Lobby know that theCOVID-19 pandemicis a moral challenge and our nation’s response will reveal our values. Now, they call on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to quickly pass corresponding legislation in theSenate, so that financial assistance reaches families before it’s too late.
Unemployment insurance and more
Sister Simone said, “No legislation can save us from theCOVID-19 pandemic but theHEROES Act will lighten theburden for many.Families across thecountry are facing empty cupboards, grieving thedeaths of friends and loved ones, and expecting many more months of unemployment.
“Our federal policies should serve thecommon good at all times. In themidst of this pandemic, it is even more crucial that our policies respond to thecurrent reality. By providing cash payments, health care, housing and nutrition assistance, extending unemployment insurance and expanding paid leave, theHouse of Representatives today demonstrated that they understand what people are going through.
“This legislation is a solid response to thesuffering of our nation. Now theSenate must take up these same concerns and respond to theneeds of our people.”
You can read the full text of the Heroes Act right here.
What do you think about the legislation? Should there be further unemployment insurance for those hit by Coronavirus? What about other stimulus measures. Tell us by sounding off in the comments section!
