Rep. Andy Levin: Congressional COVID-19 Response ‘Unprecedented’

Congress has passed three pieces of legislation in quick succession to address the public health and economic consequences of the coronavirus pandemic.

“I think Congress’ response to this is unprecedented, we passed three major pieces of bipartisan legislation.” — Rep. Andy Levin

The $2 trillion stimulus package, which passed last week, is unprecedented in size and scope in its assistance to American workers and businesses.

Some lawmakers in Washington are signaling that there will be additional legislation in the weeks and month ahead. 

Listen: Congressman Andy Levin talks response to COVID-19. 

Guest

Andy Levin, a Democrat representing Michigan’s 9th District, says he is satisfied with the final iteration of the stimulus package and the inclusion of assistance to American workers. While Congress may have moved swiftly, bureaucracy can sometimes lag those efforts.

I’m “trying to work with states and administration to make sure the unemployment and small business assistance gets out as soon as possible.” — Rep. Andy Levin

“I think Congress’ response to this is unprecedented, we passed three major pieces of bipartisan legislation,” says Levin, adding “my concern is can federal agencies and states digest what we gave them and get the money out?” 

Levin says the next step in getting help to those in need is enabling the prompt distribution of funds.

I’m “trying to work with states and administration to make sure the unemployment and small business assistance gets out as soon as possible,” says Levin. Federal assistance may not stop with this most recent bipartisan effort. Levin is hopeful that something can be done with student loans, infrastructure and schools to bolster the economy in this time of uncertainty.