Stevens Statement on Bipartisan COVID-19 Relief Agreement
WASHINGTON - Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) released the following statement after voting for H.R. 133, Omnibus Appropriations and Emergency Coronavirus Relief.
“Too many Michiganders and Americans have endured a global pandemic and unprecedented economic crisis for more than nine months now. Tragically, over 310,000 Americans have lost their lives due to COVID-19, while millions more have lost their livelihoods. As we head into 2021, millions of families are struggling to pay their rent or put food on the table, through no fault of their own. State and municipal governments across the country are facing severe budget shortfalls as they attempt to address an unprecedented crisis while maintaining vital services for our communities. Despite the urgent need for additional stimulus, the federal government has failed to enact meaningful relief for the American people for several critical months.
“While I will support this bipartisan compromise, I remain frustrated that it took so long to reach this agreement in a moment of crisis. I want to make it clear to my colleagues and constituents that our work is not done. The first doses of a COVID-19 vaccine are being distributed. There is more reason than ever to support the American people and ensure their safety in the months to come. In the 117th Congress, we have a responsibility to pass additional relief to aid vaccine production and distribution, provide direct support for struggling state and local governments, secure paid leave benefits for American workers, and support nationwide economic recovery efforts.”