Dear Colleague: Progress Report

Dear Democratic Colleague,

It is beautiful to behold the goodness and generosity of spirit of the American people to protect the health and well-being of their families and their loved ones.

I thank our entire Caucus for their reports of the examples of goodness, the need for more support for our localities and states and the challenges that many small businesses are having accessing Paycheck Protection Program loans.

In this time of great need, it is with pride and gratitude that I acknowledge the brilliant leadership of our Chairs and the overwhelming support of our Members to strengthen the Paycheck Protection Program and broaden its availability. In addition, House and Senate Democrats have worked closely to expand access to small businesses beyond PPP, by increasing funding to the Economic Injury Disaster Loans program.

In this sad and urgent time, there is an immediate need for additional funding for hospitals, testing, PPE and more support for our workers on the frontline. Our lives and well-being are threatened if health care, police, EMS, teachers and other essential workers are let go. These vital workers need our help now.

I am pleased to report that we have been engaged in bipartisan negotiations on our interim legislation and our progress is encouraging. We are also working on CARES 2 to prepare for the path ahead to support the lives and livelihoods of the American people. It is recognized that the key to opening our economy is testing, treatment, contact tracing and quarantine.

It is self-evident that America's heart is full of love. Let us be worthy of the American people's generosity of spirit.

Stay well,