House Passes Bipartisan Coronavirus Plan With Free Testing

Washington, March 14, 2020 This bill will help keep all of us safer and more fiscally secure. As an Appropriator, I take very seriously our committee’s duty to provide the resources America needs to stay healthy and sustain their families. Our veterans, and all American families, need a solid measure of health security and financial support right now. This bill does that

 Washington, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) released the following statement on the passage early today of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, comprehensive legislation that will bolster the federal government response to protect Americans’ personal safety and financial security:

“Wary Americans are taking prudent precautions, as our sports, cultural and education centers take a proper pause to protect our public health. The House of Representatives early today, took essential action to address the dangerous testing shortfalls, and strengthen support for American families and workers ahead of the looming economic aftershocks that will impact our economy. We responsibly expanded on the $8.3 billion supplemental that was hard fought and won last week, with passage today of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

This bipartisan legislation, most importantly, ensures free coronavirus testing and the expansion of nutrition programs. It provides for paid sick, family and medical leave, and also supports strong unemployment benefits. As Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Military Construction and Veterans Affairs subcommittee, I am proud that it also provided $60 million so the VA can waive copayments and costs that would possibly deter veterans from seeking coronavirus testing. Cost fears should never be a roadblock for anyone seeking a test for this virus, especially our veterans.

This bill will help keep all of us safer and more fiscally secure. As an Appropriator, I take very seriously our committee’s duty to provide the resources America needs to stay healthy and sustain their families. Our veterans, and all American families, need a solid measure of health security and financial support right now. This bill does that.”