Blunt Rochester, McKinley Introduce $1,400 Direct Payment COVID Relief Bill

Press Release

Today, Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.) and Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-W.Va) introduced bipartisan legislation calling for direct payments to American families to provide much-needed relief in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Coronavirus Assistance for American Families Act would provide a direct payment of $1,400 to adults and an additional $1,400 to any dependents, including the elderly or those with disabilities. Nearly 8 in 10 Americans support issuing $1,400 direct payments, which is also included in the President's American Rescue Plan.

"As we continue to battle against the health and economic implications of the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most effective policies that Congress has instituted is direct payments. While I was pleased that a $600 direct payment made it into the last COVID relief package, the reality is that American families are struggling and need more support," said Blunt Rochester. "I'm proud to, once again, join with Representative McKinley to make clear that providing direct relief to the American people shouldn't be a partisan issue. I'm also pleased that our bill would provide additional relief to families who are caring for dependents. Congress must continue to prioritize direct payments for the American people as quickly as possible."

"Today's weak job's report highlights how American families are struggling and need immediate relief. More than half of households have reported major financial challenges due to the economic and public health crisis," said Rep. McKinley. "By providing a third round of individual relief, millions of American families would receive the help they need. As Congress continues to negotiate additional COVID-19 relief measures, we must prioritize family-focused direct assistance to those who need it most."

The Coronavirus Assistance for American Families Act:

· Provides $1400 direct payments to each adult and each dependent equally. A couple filing jointly would receive $2,800; a family of four would receive $5,600.

· Full payment would go to single filers making $75,000 and joint filers making $150,000; above those levels, the payment decreases by $5 for every $100. This is the same criteria found in the CARES Act.

· Includes eligibility for adult dependents, such as those with disabilities and college students.

· Offers family-centric payments:

o These payments would provide single parents, especially those with multiple children, more assistance than under the CARES Act.

o Families that care for elderly or disabled relatives are also eligible for assistance.

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