Amata Welcomes House Completion of Revised Bill, Anticipates Senate Action
Washington, D.C.—Tuesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata is welcoming House passage late Monday of revised economic legislation, H Res 904, in direct response to the Coronavirus and helping people during its impact on economic conditions. This Resolution updated the bill, H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which initially passed Friday of last week. This allows the Senate to now take up the bill.
"This is the second major legislation in direct response to the coronavirus, and there's early talk of a third bill, because these health steps will impact small businesses and put some people out of work," said Aumua Amata. "The Families First Coronavirus Response Act addresses food assistance, Medicaid, sick leave and unemployment insurance. This is in addition to the $8 billion Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, signed into law already. That first act has already resulted in a $370,000 health grant for American Samoa. That new law is focused on the medical side supporting vaccine development, treatment research, mass production of tests, along with acquiring medical supplies and equipment."
Senate leaders have publicly stated their support for the economic bill that is under consideration, so it is expected to pass, although with the possibility of changes that would require another vote by the House. These legislative steps are in addition to the President's major announcement Friday of a national emergency declaration, which frees up another $50 billion to respond in various ways to the effort.
"As testing becomes widely available, people will be able to be tested for free," Congresswoman Amata said. "I will continue doing my best to keep you updated on actions in Washington and how they might affect American Samoa."
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