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Balderson: In Watershed Moment, Congress Must Help Keep America Running

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WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed a key piece of legislation to deliver supplemental COVID-19 relief. The Senate Amendment to H.R. 266, the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act, is the bipartisan, bicameral phase 3.5 package to replenish funds for the Small Business Administration’s Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, hospitals and health care providers nationwide, and COVID-19 testing development and capacity in every state.

Congressman Troy Balderson (R-OH) issued the following statement on his vote in support of the package:

“Americans will not soon forget this watershed moment. Small business owners, health care workers, drivers, store clerks, farmers, police officers, teachers, parents, and neighbors are the frontline Americans fighting this pandemic, helping our communities, and keeping our country running. It’s Congress’ job to help them – not slow them down.

“While this package delivers the relief Ohio’s small businesses and care providers desperately need, it’s clear this should have been passed weeks ago. The American people look to Congress to proactively lead and support the country, yet reactionary legislating has become the norm. I hope my colleagues see the risks this poses for America’s people and businesses and will work with me to ensure we proactively support our country moving forward.”

Earlier this week, Balderson introduced a resolution commending the resiliency of America’s small businesses in light of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and acknowledging the necessity of continued congressional support, given the vital role small businesses play in the national economy and lives of millions of Americans.

In recent weeks, Balderson has championed several issues facing Ohio’s small businesses, care providers, and citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic, by:

  • Urging the Department of Health and Human Services to bolster testing and disease surveillance systems and infrastructure to rapidly expand our understanding of the virus

  • Pushing for payback flexibility for rural hospitals within the Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment Program

  • Advocating for children’s hospitals to have access to funds set aside by the CARES Act to reimburse care providers for COVID-19-related expenses

  • Urging FEMA to rapidly approve Governor DeWine’s request for additional PPE

  • Pushing for physicians to have access to funds made available in the Public Health and Social Services Emergency Fund

  • Requesting administration reevaluation of criteria surrounding the 75% threshold for PPP loan forgiveness while also providing clarity and leniency

  • Supporting affordable housing providers and their lenders and servicers to ensure America’s most vulnerable maintain adequate housing during the COVID-19 crisis



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