Van Hollen Statement on the Passage of COVID-19, Government Funding Package

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement on the passage of the bipartisan COVID-19 relief and omnibus funding bill: 

“Now more than ever, Americans are feeling the weight of the pandemic. From watching more of their neighbors and family members fall ill, to struggling to pay mounting bills and put food on the table – the costs of this virus are all too real. Today’s package – while not perfect – will provide much-needed help. This bill includes crucial support for our workers, families, small businesses, and our efforts to fight the virus and distribute the vaccine. Additionally, this package prevents a shameful government shutdown and invests in many hard-fought priorities for our state and our country. This bill includes many compromises – but I’ve been proud to hold the line and to fight for Marylanders throughout this process. I’ve worked to secure key provisions for our state – from infrastructure projects that will spur jobs and economic growth, to funding for Maryland’s many federal agencies and facilities, to support for our crucial public transportation systems. This package – while urgent to help Americans get through this winter – will not fulfill our long-term needs. I will continue fighting for more relief in the coming months, and I will be pushing my colleagues in the Congress to work together with the Biden Administration to get it done.” 

To see Senator Van Hollen’s full statement on provisions included in the COVID-19 relief proposal, please click here.