Press Releases

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Thursday, U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz (R-Fla.) voted in favor of the next phase of America’s coronavirus relief package to provide aid to small businesses and hospitals nationwide.

“Coronavirus has devastated our small businesses and many of them are struggling to stay afloat,” Waltz said. “Last week, these businesses’ lifeline dried up when the Paycheck Protection Plan ran out of funding. This situation is desperate and unprecedented and these small businesses are counting on us to fight for them, which is one reason why I voted in favor of this bill today."

“Phase 3.5” of the coronavirus stimulus package includes more than $310 billion to replenish the Paycheck Protection Program, which provides loans to small businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The package also includes $75 billion for hospitals, $60 billion for disaster relief loans and $25 billion for coronavirus testing.

“Our healthcare workers on the front lines fighting to protect America from this pandemic deserve our thanks and support,” Waltz said.

Nearly a month has passed since Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act. Waltz encouraged Congress to stay in session to consider future measures with input from members from both sides of the aisle to provide further relief and solutions as the pandemic continues.

“I do have concerns about the long-term implications of these packages, which will future generations will eventually pay for,” Waltz said. “These negotiations – at the expense of our national debt – have also been happening behind closed doors, out of the public eye and without input from other members of Congress and this is a process that shouldn’t be repeated. Ultimately, though, members of Congress are expected to lead and work around the clock for America, particularly during severe and challenging times. Sometimes, this means making difficult decisions like this vote – but I am ready and willing to stay and continue the work the American people elected us to accomplish.”