Last Friday, Congressman John Yarmuth spoke with GLI investors to brief them on the efforts of Congress and the federal government to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted policy priorities in previous legislation such as the CARES Act and previewed next actions that Congress might take.

Congressman Yarmuth represents Kentucky’s 3rd congressional district, which encompasses almost all of Jefferson County. In Congress, he serves as the Chairman of the House Budget Committee.

During a conference call on April 10, Congressman Yarmuth described the federal government’s response to COVID-19 as an “all hands on deck” response, with multiple levels of government directly involved in securing public safety and providing economic relief. He highlighted key bi-partisan policy priorities in legislation that Congress has already passed, including the CARES Act. This legislation provides loans and grants for small businesses, funding for state and local governments, funding for health care, an expansion of unemployment benefits, and direct payments to individuals.

Congressman Yarmuth noted that another congressional response package is expected in the coming weeks. This legislation will likely focus on providing more relief for small businesses as well as additional funding for hospitals and state and local governments.

A key point that the Congressman highlighted was the need for more testing to help identify COVID-19 within local communities. He noted that while testing efforts are ramping up, much more is needed to help flatten the curve and prevent a resurgence of the virus once stay-at-home restrictions begin to be lifted throughout Kentucky and around the country.

More resources on the federal government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic can be found on Congressman Yarmuth’s website, including guides to the CARES Act and small business loans.