Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02) spoke on the House floor in support of the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. This bipartisan measure which will support small business, increase testing, and provide additional funding to hospitals passed the House by a vote of 388 to 5 with one member voting present.
During his remarks, Rep. Huizenga also called Congress to act on the HEROES Act to support our first responders, medical professionals, licensed medical facility support staff, and senior care facility staff. Video of Congressman Huizenga’s speech as well as the text of his remarks are available below.
Congressman Bill Huizenga
Madame Speaker, while we have many different approaches about restarting our economy, we should all agree the Paycheck Protection Program has provided a vital lifeline to small businesses in communities across America including West Michigan.
For example media reports show that Macatawa Bank, a community bank based in Holland, Michigan, was able to process over $300 million dollars in PPP loans. This will help keep paychecks coming to more than 27,000 hard-working people in West Michigan.
In Ludington, Michigan I heard from an owner of a bowling alley who’s business was literally saved by the PPP. His employees are getting paid, he can pay his bills, and his business has avoided bankruptcy.
Even with these successes, I have heard from employers across my district waiting to receive their loan. While I am glad that is happening today, it shouldn’t have taken this long.
Now, as we discuss the next steps the federal government can take. I encourage the Speaker and my colleagues to support H.R. 6433, a bill I introduced on April 3rd called the HEROES Act, as a way to say thank you to the first responders and medical professionals risking their lives on a daily basis to save the lives of others.
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