Yesterday, the House passed the HEROES Act after spending weeks working to create an adequate response to the reality 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.
The Catholic Sisters and activists of NETWORK Lobby know that the COVID-19 pandemic is 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 the Senate, so that financial assistance reaches families before it’s too late.
Unemployment insurance and more
Sister Simone said, “No legislation can save us from the COVID-19 pandemic but the HEROES Act will lighten the burden for many. Families across the country are facing empty cupboards, grieving the deaths of friends and loved ones, and expecting many more months of unemployment.
“Our federal policies should serve the common good at all times. In the midst of this pandemic, it is even more crucial that our policies respond to the current reality. By providing cash payments, health care, housing and nutrition assistance, extending unemployment insurance and expanding paid leave, the House of Representatives today demonstrated that they understand what people are going through.
“This legislation is a solid response to the suffering of our nation. Now the Senate must take up these same concerns and respond to the needs 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!
