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WASHINGTON – Moments ago, the United States House of Representatives passed the Senate’s version of President Biden’s COVID-19 relief bill, which will provide millions of people with $1,400 direct payments, billions of dollars for vaccines and testing, and tax breaks to low-income earners and families with children, among other vital policies.

In response, Rahna Epting, executive director of MoveOn, issued the following statement:

“This is a major step toward critical aid for millions of Americans who are suffering. 

“For nearly a year and counting, our nation has endured a devastating war with a deadly virus that has killed over half a million people and exacerbated fundamental issues within our society, economy, and government. The coronavirus relief bill provides us with a chance to get people back on their feet and rebuild systems that have failed too many for too long. 

“Elections do indeed have consequences and the American Rescue Plan is a big win for our country.

“We applaud Democrats in Congress for passing this relief bill and delivering urgently needed relief to the American people. But this is only the first step on our road to recovery and prosperity. Now all eyes are on President Biden’s commitment to Build Back Better. The American people want to see a robust recovery package that prioritizes the creation of millions of high-quality, good-paying jobs, combating the climate crisis, advancing racial justice, investing in care infrastructure, providing a pathway to citizenship for immigrant essential workers, and more.

“It is shameful that this critical legislation did not earn the support of any Republicans in the Senate. Make no mistake – the American people see that the Democrats are working for them, while Republicans continue to obstruct, delay, and deny.

“America needs relief, and we need it now. There is no time to waste.”