The House of Representatives voted to pass the $3 trillion The Heroes Act on May 15, with all five North Jersey Representatives voting for the bill.
Following are video and written statements on the passage of the aid package by Reps. Josh Gottheimer, Mikie Sherrill, Bill Pascrell, Donald Payne and Albio Sires :
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-5):
Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-11):
Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-9):
Rep. Donald Payne (D-10):
“All Americans are losing loved ones, jobs, health insurance, and their patience. The only aid they will get is whatever we provide them. Government exists to help the country in times of great need and there might never be a greater need in our lifetime than right now. I hope it receives bipartisan support because our constituents expect us to protect their interests and do the right thing. This bill is that right thing because it is good for Americans, American businesses, and American workers.”
Rep. Albio Sires (D-8):
“Americans across the country are suffering from the physical and economic impacts of the coronavirus. The Heroes Act seeks to address the challenges so many are struggling with by supporting programs for workers, the unemployed, renters, small businesses, health care systems, and more. I voted for this bill because we cannot stand idly by when we are presented with the opportunity to help those in need.”
The Heroes Act contains provisions including:
- $1,200 for every individual making less than $75,000 and $1,200 for up to three of their qualified dependents.
- $100 billion in emergency relief for renters.
- Expansion of eviction and foreclosure moratorium to all renters and homeowners nationwide.
- $75 billion for COVID-19 testing, contracting tracing, and mitigation—including establishing a national system to implement these efforts.
- $90 billion for a State Fiscal Stabilization Fund to fund remote education, including resources for technology, counseling, and mental health resources for students and staff.
- $5 billion for schools and libraries to provide teachers and students with internet services, wi-fi hotspots, and other technical needs.
- Up to $10,000 in hazard pay for essential workers making less than $200,000.
- $15 billion for state Departments of Transportation (DOT) to cover revenue losses.
- Lifting of the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap for 2020 and 2021.
