WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Chamber of Commerce CEO Thomas J. Donohue today issued the following statement on the passage of pandemic relief legislation.
“The Chamber applauds a truly bipartisan compromise that finally puts the American people and businesses ahead of partisan squabbling. We commend the Congressional leadership and the bipartisan senators and representatives whose actions led to this achievement. Together, they have illustrated how we can break partisan gridlock in the new Congress next year.
“Today’s package includes aid for small businesses and nonprofits, extension of unemployment programs, funding for schools and day care centers, and resources to support vaccinations before the end of the year. It will help small businesses and Americans contend with the devastating economic impact of the pandemic, which, of course, has tragically taken more than 300,000 Americans this year.
“It’s regrettable that the Portman-Manchin legislation that included state and local aid temporary aid, and targeted liability protections for businesses, schools, and nonprofits that follow public health guidelines, did not also pass with bipartisan support. These key provisions would have enhanced our nation’s ability to stage a broad-based economic recovery in 2021. The Chamber will urge the new Congress and administration to support local and state aid and targeted liability protections in legislation in the new year.”
