The legislation guarantees free coronavirus testing, ensures paid emergency leave, improves unemployment insurance, strengthens food safety initiatives, and increases federal Medicaid funding for states.WASHINGTON, DC – The House of Representatives passed a bipartisan vote with 363 votes in favor and 40 against, the “Families First” Coronavirus Response Act to bolster the federal government’s response to the coronavirus outbreak response and address severe impacts of the coronavirus on the personal and financial security of Americans.
The legislation is now addressed to the Senate for consideration. The legislation reflects a bipartisan agreement between House Democrats and the Trump administration. Guarantees free coronavirus testing, secures paid emergency leave, improves unemployment insurance, strengthens food safety initiatives, and increases federal Medicaid funding for states.
According to the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, this temporary increase in Medicaid funds would generate an increase of approximately $ 6.7 billion to New York State, the most individual amount to any state. The bill ensures that children who depend on free and reduced-price meals have access to food during school closings and childcare.
It ensures that low-income workers do not lose SNAP benefits during this public health crisis, and provides flexibility to ensure the health and safety of WIC beneficiaries. ”Our top priority in this public health emergency must be to provide support to the American people, ”said Congresswoman Nita Lowey.
With the Families First Coronavirus Act, the federal government is working to ensure that communities like Westchester and Rockland are physically and financially safe during this time of crisis. With this bill, we can provide paid vacations, guarantee free trials, and enhance important benefits for children and families. I will not stop working with my colleagues in Congress and throughout New York State to mitigate the impact of the coronavirus on families in the Lower Hudson Valley. ”
