Washington, D.C. – March 27, 2020. U.S. Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) released the following statement on the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act:  

“What began as a public health crisis has now developed into an economic disaster. With confirmed cases of Coronavirus across America and in our communities still on the rise, stifling economic activity, countless American workers are being furloughed or laid off. Large and small businesses alike are in danger of closing their doors permanently. Americans are suffering.

“While the CARES Act is far from perfect, this legislation provides the necessary relief to assist families and bolster the economy. This bill offers direct assistance to families, small businesses, and workers through recovery checks. Additionally, this vital legislation includes $350 billion in federally-guaranteed loans through the Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses, allowing eight weeks of cash-flow assistance to maintain their payrolls. It grants the Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve the flexibility to provide support to industries harmed not by malfeasance or mismanagement but by government mandate.

“Most significantly, it rushes much-needed resources to our frontline hospitals, tireless health professionals, and first responders, while also expanding the use of telehealth. They deserve the equipment and supplies they need to stay safe while saving lives.

“Despite the flaws that lie within this bill, our great nation is facing an unprecedented attack on our physical and economic health. While I generally oppose bailouts or governments dictating what people and businesses can and cannot do, I realize that these are extraordinary times. Further, unlike last week’s bill, where the House was only given forty minutes to review its contents, we were given ample time to review today’s bill - the CARES Act.

“It is for these considerations and the responsibility we have as elected officials to protect our citizens, neighbors, and communities, that I supported the passage of this much-needed relief package.”