This morning, Rep. John Curtis (R-UT) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives, voicing support for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which will enable a targeted stream of resources designed to keep money in the economy and people healthy. The Congressman also expressed concerns about the package costing half of the yearly federal budget and invited his colleagues to join him in taking action to reduce the growing deficit.

"The CARES Act is the largest economic disaster recovery package in our nation’s history. Given the size and scope of the pandemic, it’s a hefty price tag that must be paid, but I challenge my colleagues to join me in dealing with the consequences of spending money we don’t have. It’s time to get our financial house in order before it becomes our next crisis."

On Monday, Rep. Curtis advocated for small businesses seeking loans (see HERE for more info) and on Wednesday, introduced a bill to sanction foreign officials who withhold or distort public health information (more information available HERE). 

To learn more about what the Congressman is doing in regards to COVID-19, visit curtis.house.gov/coronavirus.

The Congressman’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, are below:

“Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of H.R.748, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act.

The CARES Act is the largest economic disaster recovery package in our nation’s history, accounting for almost half of our yearly federal budget and about ten percent of U.S. economic output. Given the size and scope of the pandemic, it’s a hefty price tag that we can’t afford to not pay, but I challenge my colleagues to join me in getting our financial house in order so we are better prepared to tackle future disasters such as this one.

The once-in-a-lifetime set of circumstances that led to this moment require immediate action and outweigh any of this bill’s shortcomings. We can’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good when immediate action is needed, nor can we allow partisanship to stand in the way.

I have heard stories of the devastating effects of COVID-19 throughout the past week during countless conversations with business owners, many who are near the brink of permanently closing their doors, and individuals impacted by the virus personally, including a dear friend, a fellow Utahn and member of this chamber, who recently became hospitalized with this virus.

One of the most unique parts of Utah culture is the pride we take in serving one another, especially when we need each other the most.

This spirit, coupled with a targeted stream of resources designed to keep money in the economy and people healthy, will be the key ingredients to ensuring communities across the state can fully heal from this unprecedented crisis. 

I am voting for this bill today to play my part in beginning the healing process and reassuring my family, friends, and neighbors that help is on the way.

The sudden economic hardships that the hard-working families and business owners throughout my district are facing is by no fault of their own, which is why, in addition to this vote, I have taken numerous steps this past week to ensure that Utahns have every opportunity to weather this storm.

I will remain committed to making sure these precious resources reach the communities and the people in my district who need them the most.

We will get through this. Together.

Thank you, I yield back.”

###