Thread by @JohnYarmuth

.@HouseDemocrats have introduced the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to:

• Provide access to free testing
• Establish an emergency paid leave program
• Support strong unemployment benefits
• Protect our frontline health workers
• Expand food security programs

Last week’s Emergency coronavirus supplemental was an important first step, but more must be done. Travel bans & payroll tax cuts don’t meet the immediate needs we have. The coronavirus is here. We need the targeted, multi-tiered approach of the Families First bill.

This legislation will guarantee free testing to protect public health. Knowing the scope of this pandemic is the most important element of determining the next steps in our response.

We need paid family leave to alleviate the devastating consequences of lost wages. American families need to know that their government has their backs and will help keep them safe. That includes protecting them from financial ruin if they need to stay home sick or quarantine.

Food security is vital for our children, our seniors, and those in need. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act will provide:

• $500M to help low-income pregnant women or mothers with young children
• $250M to provide home-delivered and pre-packaged meals to low-income seniors
• $400M to help local food banks