McConnell Introduces the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act
‘I am officially introducing the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act… I hope this bold new proposal will find a similar degree of bipartisan respect and mutual urgency on the other side of the aisle, and across the Capitol. I look forward to working with our Democratic colleagues and the Administration to complete this important work and deliver for the country.’
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding the CARES Act:
“As our nation confronts this health crisis and the economic crisis it is spawning, Senate Republicans have prepared a bold legislative proposal.
“I am officially introducing the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.
“This legislation takes bold action on four major priorities that are extremely urgent and extremely necessary:
- Direct financial help for the American people;
- Rapid relief for small businesses and their employees;
- Significant steps to stabilize our economy and protect jobs;
- And, of course, more support for the brave healthcare professionals and the patients who are fighting the coronavirus on the front lines.
“Now, just yesterday, by an overwhelming vote, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation that originated with the Democratic House of Representatives.
“So I hope this bold new proposal will find a similar degree of bipartisan respect and mutual urgency on the other side of the aisle, and across the Capitol.
“I look forward to working with our Democratic colleagues and the Administration to complete this important work and deliver for the country.
“Here are the next steps. A group of my Republican colleagues are standing by to explain this legislation and talk with their counterparts: Chairman Crapo and Senator Toomey from the Banking Committee; Chairman Alexander from the HELP Committee; Chairman Grassley and Senator Portman from the Finance Committee; Chairman Rubio from the Small Business Committee, as well as Senator Collins; Chairman Wicker from the Commerce Committee; And Senator Thune, our Majority Whip.
“These will be our point people. I invite all of their Democratic counterparts to join us at the table right away.
“These are urgent discussions and they need to happen at a member level, starting now.
“I might add, all Republicans senators, whether they are a part of this group I just mentioned or not, have been asked to stay in town. We’re here, and we are ready to act as soon as an agreement with our colleagues across the aisle can be reached.
“The Administration has agreed to send the Secretary of Treasury, the Director of the National Economic Council, and the White House Director of Legislative Affairs.
“These bipartisan discussions must begin immediately and continue with urgency, at the member level, until we have results.
“We know this legislation will not be the last word.
“Bipartisan, bicameral talks are already underway to act on the Administration’s request for supplemental appropriations.
“But we need to take bold and swift action as soon as possible.
“We need to take further steps to continue addressing our nation’s healthcare needs…
“And we need to help protect American workers, families, and small businesses from this unique economic crisis that threatens to worsen with every day. We need to have the American people’s backs.
“This legislation is a significant next step.
“And the Senate is not going anywhere until we take action.”
Related Issues: Economy, Health Care, Jobs, Senate Democrats, Small Business
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