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Washington, DC – Congressman Jim Baird (R-IN) voted today in support of COVID-19 relief legislation, providing targeted relief to Hoosiers, farmers, small businesses, and those hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This legislation provides targeted relief to those still in need. Small businesses have been devastated through no fault of their own. New PPP funds will keep employees on their payroll and help keep businesses open. Families will receive direct cash payments to help cover bills,” Congressman Baird said.

In addition to funding the federal government, H.R. 133 – which passed the House by overwhelming majority this evening – included $900 billion in pandemic relief and stimulus. However, nearly two thirds of that cost were covered by funds recaptured from unspent funds allocated by the CARES Act passed into law earlier this year; with only $325 billion in new spending.

“Thanks to Operation Warp Speed a safe and effective vaccine was approved in record time, yet there still remains a lot of work that needs to be done. Today, we designated funds to purchase more vaccine doses and keep distribution on track across the country. I have faith that we will triumph and this COVID relief legislation will play a part in our success,” Congressman Baird continued.

Major provisions of H.R. 133 for COVID-19 relief include:

• Direct payments of $600 for adult taxpayers and $600 per each dependent child

• $300/week in expanded unemployment benefits extended for 10 weeks

• $325 billion aid to small businesses

o Provides over $280 billion to expand and allow a second draw on the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

• An additional $26 billion to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to ensure our food supply is secure

o $13 billion to increase benefits for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participants for six months

o $13 billion to farmers impacted by the pandemic 

• $82 billion in assistance for schools 

o The Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Fund will receive $55 billion

o The Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund will receive $23 billion

• $20 billion for the purchase of vaccines to ensure that vaccines are available to at no charge for anyone who needs it

Pandemic relief funding was included in an end-of-the year omnibus spending package that funds the government through the end of the fiscal year and other provisions. 

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