Washington, D.C. -- Congressional Progressive Caucus Co-Chairs Mark Pocan (WI-02) and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) released the following statement calling for immediate action on bold, sweeping CARES-2 legislation:
“While important, the interim legislation passed by Congress today comes nowhere close to meeting the needs of families across this country. More than 47,000 Americans have died, 26 million people are unemployed, and there is no end in sight to this crisis.
“Congress must do far more to direct relief to the everyday families who need help the most. We’re pleased that Speaker Pelosi has committed to drafting a CARES-2 bill that originates in the House, with input from all House Democrats. We must pass bold legislation that meets the scale of this crisis and that is grounded in justice, equity and inclusion.
“Two weeks ago, we sent a letter to Speaker Pelosi outlining our four priorities for the next big coronavirus response legislation, namely:
- keeping people on payrolls through worksharing and a paycheck guarantee;
- providing economic relief;
- protecting public health;
- and safeguarding our elections.
“By centering these principles in the next package, and ensuring that these programs are open to all, regardless of immigration status, Congress can show that we are putting people first.
“We cannot afford to think small in a time that calls for bold and decisive action. House Democrats must lead with vision and urgency by passing a CARES-2 bill that meets the immense needs of this moment.”
