Rep. Levin Provides Update on Latest Efforts to Address Coronavirus
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Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Representative Mike Levin (D-CA) provided an update on his latest efforts to address the coronavirus (COVID-19), including the bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act, as well as direct communication with state and local officials regarding their needs from the federal government:
“As we confront the coronavirus pandemic together, my top priority is supporting state and local officials on the frontlines of this crisis to ensure that they have everything they need to keep our communities safe. I will continue to maintain direct communication with local governments, hospitals, schools, and other stakeholders over the coming weeks and months. As part of that communication, I was glad to hear from San Diego Gas and Electric and Southern California Edison that they will not shut off services due to inability to pay during this crisis.
“It is clear that we need more tests and other resources on the ground, which is why I am eager to help pass the bipartisan Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The bill includes desperately needed measures to provide free testing regardless of insurance status, paid emergency leave, enhanced unemployment insurance, strengthened food security initiatives, and increased federal funds for Medicaid. I strongly urge the Senate and the President to enact these measures without delay. In the meantime, I am glad that the President finally declared a national emergency, which will allow for more federal aid to reach state and local agencies.
“The most important thing everyone can do is follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the California Governor’s office, and local health professionals in San Diego and Orange Counties. Following these guidelines will not only help keep you and your family safe, but it will also help prevent the spread of this disease to more vulnerable populations. I will continue to share their guidance and other updates on a regular basis.”
The Families First Coronavirus Response Act will provide:
- Free coronavirus testing for everyone who needs a test, including the uninsured
- Paid emergency leave, with both 14 days of paid sick leave and up to three months of paid family and medical leave
- Enhanced Unemployment Insurance, a first step that will extend protections to furloughed workers
- Strengthened food security initiatives, including SNAP, student meals, seniors’ nutrition and food banks
- Increased federal funds for Medicaid, as states face increased costs.
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