The #HeroesAct, the #coronavirus bill we are voting on today, contains several important priorities I fought for. While the bill could go further, I’m pleased with much of what we secured. 1/12
The bill boosts funds for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (#SNAP) by 15%. In my district, I’ve seen lines at local food banks. Families need this assistance. 2/12
It provides a second round of more substantial economic stimulus payments consisting of $1,200 per family member, and up to $6,000 per household to ease the financial burden that many are experiencing due to #COVID19. 3/12
Under the bill economic stimulus payments will now be available to those with Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (#ITIN), so that undocumented communities can receive these payments. This will also be retroactive. 4/12
It includes hazard pay for essential workers on the front lines of this crisis. They are the true heroes of this crisis and the Heroes Act gives them fairer compensation & #PPE 5/12
It sets forth a strategic plan for testing and contract tracing. Only with testing & tracing can we control this virus and, eventually, fully reopen our economy. 6/12
For #SmallBusinesses the bill improves #PPP. It allows a longer period for use of the loans, fixing the “eight week” issue we’ve heard about. 7/12
The bill sets aside 25% of existing funds – about $30 billion – to go firms with fewer than 10 employees – prioritizing some of our smallest businesses. 8/12
It also provides $10 billion in grants for #SmallBusinesses. 9/12
It provides badly needed fiscal relief for hard hit states and localities. New York State will receive $34 billion in fiscal relief and the City will receive $17 billion. An important start. 10/12
For Puerto Rico this bill would provide $12 billion in direct assistance.11/12
This bill is not perfect, but it is necessary. It has important provisions that will help our city and the most vulnerable. I will vote yes. 12/12
