In the News

A vote is expected Friday in the U.S. House on another coronavirus relief bill. A Democratic leader from western Massachusetts said it will be the starting point for negotiations with Senate Republicans and the White House on how next to respond to the economic fallout from the pandemic.

The centerpiece of the legislation, known as the Heroes Act, is $875 billion for state and local governments that have seen revenues plunge while having to spend unbudgeted sums to respond to the public health emergency.

"It should not be a partisan issue," said U.S. Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA1).

Massachusetts would receive $22.5 billion according to  Neal, the Springfield Democrat who chairs the powerful Ways and Means Committee.

"Governors across the country including Gov. Baker as well as Gov. Hogan are supportive of what we are attempting to do," Neal said noting both are Republicans.  He said Gov. Cuomo, a Democrat, supports the legislation also.

The money would make it down to cities and towns, Neal said, based on a formula used for federal grant programs.

" Just about every one of the 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts are going to benefit here," said Neal.

While state and municipalities are required by law to have balanced budgets, that is not the case with the federal government.   This proposed coronavirus relief legislation would add $3 trillion on to the debt.

"We are borrowing money to deal with an international pandemic," said Neal.  "It is a good investment."

Other highlights of the bill include: $100 billion for hospitals, $75 billion for testing and contact tracing, $175 billion for housing assistance, and another round of direct $1,200 payments to adults – with the same amount going to children this time.

Republicans have dismissed the package produced by the Democrats.  Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said there should be a pause on new legislation until the impact of the $2 trillion CARES Act is clearer.

But, Neal, who met with reporters in Springfield Wednesday, said if Congress fails to respond now it will result in more lost lives and livelihoods.

"I understand this is a document of negotiation and while Sen. McConnell has said this is a nonstarter, he has said that in the previous rounds of negotiations as well," said Neal.

Also included in the package is almost $4 billion to help states pay to conduct this year’s elections. Several states, including Massachusetts, are considering vote-by-mail systems.  Neal, who is running for reelection and facing a Democratic primary challenge from Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse, said he supports giving people the option to cast their ballot by mail.

"I think for those who want to vote by mail, eliminating the barriers or burdens is really important," said Neal.

The House itself may soon change the way its members vote.  The House Rules Committee is meeting Thursday to take up a proposal that would allow proxy voting.   The full House could vote on the rules change Friday.   It would be in effect for as long as the health crisis lasts.