Rep. Bowen Statement on Federal Coronavirus Stimulus Package

MILWAUKEE – State Rep. David Bowen (D-Milwaukee) released the following statement in response to the passage of new COVID-19 stimulus and relief legislation through Congress:

“Surely, America is worth more than this. While I am enlightened to see Congressional leaders in Washington finally do their jobs and provide a second round of relief to the American people, this package is not nearly enough. People in Wisconsin are losing their homes, jobs & businesses after nearly 9 months of inaction. My office alone has received hundreds of requests for UI help, food access and other basic needs, many coming even from outside of our district. In a year where millions of everyday working people are staring down the worst economic crisis they have ever faced, this is what Congress thinks will see folks through? A one-time direct payment and extended unemployment enhancements (at lower levels than were included even in the insufficient CARES Act passed earlier this year) are a start, but they will barely put a dent in the piles of bills and back-rent/mortgage payments that many Americans owe by no fault of their own.”

The new package, passed last night, provides numerous small investments in an attempt to soften the blow faced by millions of Americans still reeling as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.

“Let’s be clear – this package must be improved upon in the coming weeks and months. Just a few years ago, Congress had no trouble passing $2 trillion in tax cuts for corporations and the wealthiest Americans. It’s past time that working Americans and our small businesses get the same kind of treatment, especially as they continue to weather this crisis. This moment calls for substantial action, not just half-measures, and I’ll continue using my platform and raising my voice until working people across this country & our state get the help that they deserve.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.