Rep. Schrier Statement on House Passage of Economic Package in Response to COVID-19
WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) released the following statement about the "Families First Coronavirus Response Act," which passed the House tonight:
"Early this morning, the House came together to pass a bipartisan economic package. It was heartening to see that when faced with the challenge of a pandemic, Democrats and Republicans could put partisanship aside and our country and American families first. The bill we passed will make sure that as we face the coronavirus (COVID-19), families and businesses will be better able to weather the economic impacts.
Washingtonians have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 outbreak in the last two weeks. Public Health departments are struggling to keep up with the increasing demand of sick people in the community. Schools and businesses are closing which will have long-term effects on families and children.
As a pediatrician, my first concern is always children and their well-being. Right now, we do not believe that COVID-19 affects children as severely as it affects the elderly. But they may well be spreading the disease. As schools close for prolonged periods, we must consider the impacts to households.
One of the many services schools provide are nutritious, free school meals for millions of children who might otherwise not get one at home. It is so important to ensure children and families have continued access to nutritious food in the event of school closings. That is why this package includes my bill, the MEALS Act, which provides states like Washington greater flexibility to administer child nutrition programs, similar to summer feeding programs. This will be needed now more than ever with all of Washington's schools closing until April 24th.
Another major concern for all of us is the cost of testing. This is a new virus so there was no test until a few months ago. High cost will deter people from getting tested. I am thrilled that this package also includes my bill, the No Cost for COVID-19 Testing Act, which will require COVID-19 testing to be free, so families are not burdened by the cost, and we can make sure everyone who needs to be tested will receive a test. This is a public health necessity.
Unfortunately, this is going to get worse before it gets better. With increased availability of tests and more community spread, we will see the number of cases rise.
The House took action last week to get local and state health departments the tools and funding they need to fight the virus. And the bill we passed today will help families weather the economic impacts of a pandemic. I will keep working with my colleagues to make sure that every challenge we face is met with support from the federal government. We are all in this together."