Oregon Senate President Peter Courtney Urges Congress to Pass Economic Relief Package

SALEM, Ore. – Senate President Peter Courtney (D-Salem) sent a letter today to Congressional Leaders, highlighting the need for a large COVID-19 economic stimulus package.

“I am writing to urge that you pass a large economic relief package to assist Oregon with the economic damage from the COVID-19 pandemic. Federal funds would provide much-needed relief to vulnerable Oregonians and essential programs as the pandemic continues to evolve.

“I cannot stress enough how critical additional federal dollars will be to keep programs afloat that assist our most vulnerable Oregonians.

"This pandemic and the devastating fire season have caused serious financial hardship for families and businesses. Funding is urgently needed to provide them with a path forward during this stage of the pandemic.

• As case rates continue to swiftly climb, Oregon requires federal funding to expand testing and provide health care services. The Oregon Health Plan, which provides health care coverage for over 1.2 million Oregonians, faces a $718 million budget gap. The need to invest in health care has never been more urgent.
• With businesses closing to fight a new wave of cases, workers and small business owners need an additional $600 in weekly federal unemployment benefits and a renewal of the Paycheck Protection Program.
• Swift rental and mortgage assistance is needed to keep struggling Oregonians secure in their homes.
• We are facing a childcare crisis, with childcare providers requiring immediate assistance to stay in business. Working families are in need of additional aid while their childcare options remain limited.
• Oregon’s K-12 schools, community colleges, and universities require additional financial support as they confront new challenges brought by the pandemic.
• Oregon continues to recover from a wildfire season that has seen the destruction of entire towns, businesses, and over 4,000 homes. Federal assistance will be essential in rebuilding our wildfire-impacted communities.

“Make no mistake, Oregon is hurting badly.

"The State and our local governments are in desperate need of funds in order to protect and support our communities during this global emergency. A large stimulus package will provide Oregon with necessary resources to weather this storm and meet the increased needs of Oregonians across the state.”