Cunningham Passes Families First Coronavirus Response Act to Help Lowcountry Families
Press Release
Rep. Joe Cunningham (SC-01) tonight joined the U.S. House of Representatives to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, legislation that will bolster the federal government's response to the coronavirus and safeguard Americans' personal health and financial security. The legislation provides for free coronavirus testing, emergency paid sick leave, enhanced emergency unemployment measures, expands food assistance for vulnerable children and families, protects frontline health workers and additional funding to states to address the ongoing economic consequences of the pandemic.
"Last week, Congress worked together to pass an $8.3 billion emergency coronavirus supplemental that provided critical funds for treatment and a vaccine; state and local preparedness and response; procurement of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies; and support for small businesses impacted by this pandemic. But it has become clear that more is needed to support American families," said Rep. Joe Cunningham. "This bipartisan legislation ensures that cost will not inhibit any American from receiving the coronavirus testing they need. I'm glad we're putting politics aside to do what we must to confront this national emergency."
The legislation passed tonight also includes emergency paid sick leave legislation Cunningham introduced that provides financial assistance to workers who miss over 14 days of work because they have coronavirus; are quarantined at the instruction of a doctor, employer, or public health official; or miss work because they are caring for an individual affected by coronavirus.
"In a public health emergency, no one should be forced to choose between staying home to recover or going to work sick and potentially exposing others because they can't afford to miss a paycheck," said Rep. Joe Cunningham. "Providing emergency paid leave for workers will help prevent the spread of the virus and boost South Carolina's economy."
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