April 02, 2020

Van Hollen, Cardin Host Tele-Conference with Maryland Mayors and Municipal Leaders on COVID-19

Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) hosted a tele-conference with Maryland mayors and municipal leaders to discuss the impacts of the coronavirus on their communities and how the recently-passed CARES Act can help. On the call, the Senators detailed federal coronavirus response efforts, including direct funding for their municipalities, and answered questions regarding current relief measures available to local governments. 

“Our cities and towns are facing serious challenges in fighting the coronavirus – from addressing the public health crisis to bearing the brunt of the economic impacts. This call was an opportunity to hear from our mayors and local municipal leaders about how we can continue to help them. Team Maryland must keep working together, across all levels of government, to battle through this crisis. We’re grateful for the work our local leaders are doing, and we will continue to have their back,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Maryland’s local leaders are on the front lines of addressing this alarming public health crisis,” said Senator Cardin. “We worked to significantly improve the CARES Act and provide direct federal funding for state, county, and municipal governments, and Team Maryland is committed to ensuring that our municipalities receive the assistance that they need in the day-to-day fight against COVID-19. We will continue our dialogue with local officials to better understand their current needs and what may be necessary in the weeks and months ahead.”

Senators Van Hollen and Cardin fought to provide workers, families, small businesses, and the state government with much-needed relief through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, passed by Congress last week. Over the past few weeks, the Senators have held a series of calls to provide updates and receive feedback from those impacted by the coronavirus in Maryland. Among others, the Senators have spoken to healthcare leaders and professionals, state and local government officials, small business owners, and non-profit organizations.

Further information on the Senators’ efforts as well as resources for constituents, local officials, and businesses can be found on Senator Van Hollen’s website here and Senator Cardin’s website here.