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Congressman Meeks’ Statement on the Passage of the American Rescue Plan

March 10, 2021

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement after the House of Representatives voted in favor of the Senate-passed version of H.R. 1319, The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, an urgently needed package to address the health and economic crises brought on by the global pandemic:

"I am proud to have voted for the passage of the American Rescue Act of 2021, a landmark piece of legislation that will bring relief and recovery to countless American families, businesses, and communities.

"This legislation puts money in the pockets of American families and gives states and localities resources for efficient vaccine distribution. The plan provides direct assistance to low- and moderate-income households across America with stimulus checks of up to $1,400. The plan extends unemployment insurance so that 18 million American workers can pay their bills and meet other financial obligations. The plan also supports 27 million children with an expanded Child Tax Credit and more than 17 million low-wage workers through an improved Earned Income Tax Credit.

"As Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I'm especially pleased to have $10 billion included in the bill for COVID relief overseas. Pandemics do not respect international borders. It is in America's own public health interests to help reign in the spread of COVID worldwide.

"This vital piece of the legislation will relieve overburdened health systems and medical workers, helping governments and multilateral partners develop and distribute vaccines. It also addresses the humanitarian crises exacerbated by the pandemic, providing funding for life-saving assistance - including shelter, food, clean water, and basic medical care- for the world's most vulnerable.

"This legislation would move our country and the global community forward as we put an end to this deadly virus and ensure the benefits of our eventual economic recovery are broadly shared. I eagerly await President Biden's expected signing of the American Rescue Plan."

Issues:Economy