U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer of Washington's 6th District joined 219 other Democrats Wednesday to vote to approve the American Rescue Plan, the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 pandemic recovery …
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U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer of Washington's 6th District joined 219 other Democrats Wednesday to vote to approve the American Rescue Plan, the $1.9 trillion COVID-19 pandemic recovery plan.
The final vote was 220-211, with no Republicans voting in favor of the coronavirus recovery plan. One member of the Democratic Party, Rep. Jared Golden of Maine, also cast a vote in opposition.
“Over the last year, I’ve spoken with folks across our region who have lost their jobs, lost their small businesses, and lost loved ones due to the COVID-19 pandemic," Kilmer said in a statement after the historic vote.
"I’ve heard a lot of pain. People in our region need help," he said. "That’s why I’ve been outspoken in pushing Congress to take action so folks get the help they need to get through this.
“I support the American Rescue Plan because it will help us beat back this virus, enable kids to get back to school safely, support our local businesses, and provide a hand to folks that are trying to keep a roof over their heads, feed their families, and pay their bills."
President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law Friday.
The American Rescue Plan includes $20 billion for distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, $60 billion in aid to small businesses (including $25 billion in grants for restaurants), an extension in unemployment benefits, and additional $1,400 stimulus checks for millions of Americans.
According to Senator Maria Cantell's office, Washington state will receive more than $6.7 billion from the legislation, with more than $4.2 billion going to the state government.