Rep. Kevin Coleman (D-Westland) joined Michigan House Democrats this week in supporting a pandemic recovery plan that would immediately release $5 billion in federal dollars to help Michigan workers, small businesses, families and schools impacted most by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coleman and Michigan House Democrats called on legislative Republicans to stop holding hostage the funding critical to Michigan’s recovery from the pandemic.
“People are suffering today and we have the ability to address those needs now. We cannot sit on funds that can get our constituents the help they need and provide vital health care resources,” said Coleman. “We cannot wait to help our schools, teachers and students find safe ways to return to the classroom. We cannot wait to help small businesses that are struggling to make ends meet. We cannot wait any longer and the time to act is now.”
Specifics of the supplemental appropriations bill include:
- $90 million for vaccine distribution throughout Michigan.
- $575 million to expand COVID testing, tracing, and lab capacity.
- $2.1 billion in food assistance.
- $660 million to help with rental assistance and winter utility bills.
- $2 billion for Michigan schools.
- $270 million for small business relief.
- Language that would extend unemployment assistance from 20 to 26 weeks.