AFSCME Calls on Congress to Pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act

WASHINGTON — AFSCME President Lee Saunders issued the following statement calling on Congress to protect the health and economic security of working families by passing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act:

“During this public health emergency, Americans are counting on their elected leaders to act quickly and responsibly. The emergency legislation proposed today by Speaker Pelosi will provide needed funding to support state and local workers, who are stepping up to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19) and protect the health and economic security of their communities.

“This bill will give workers the help they need. It covers the costs of testing, establishes a fund to provide paid medical and family leave and invests in unemployment insurance. It allows those who feel sick to stay home and get tested without having to sacrifice their paychecks.

“This administration has abdicated its responsibility to respond clearly and decisively to the coronavirus, repeatedly failing to provide the public with clear and timely information. By contrast, public service workers – as they always have when our nation has faced danger and uncertainty – are stepping up, often putting themselves at risk to keep us safe. For their courage and dedication, they deserve our respect and support. We urge Congress to step up by passing the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.”