Rep. Vargas' Bill Included as a Provision in the Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act
Washington, D.C. (March 24, 2020) – Today, Rep. Vargas’ (CA-51) bill was included as a provision in the Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act, a bold and comprehensive phase three coronavirus response bill that would provide more than $2.5 trillion for the American economy.
“I'm very pleased to see my legislation was included as a provision in the Take Responsibility for Workers and Families Act,” said Rep. Vargas. “This provision would authorize an additional $3 billion under the Defense Production Act, to help ensure we are prepared with enough ventilators, protective gear, tests, and medical supplies to combat COVID-19.”
In addition to increasing authorized funding for the Defense Production Act, Rep. Vargas’ provision would allow for enhanced public and congressional oversight regarding the use of those funds.
“As we have seen, one of the main challenges other countries are facing is the lack of medical supplies and protective gear,” said Rep. Vargas. “Without a higher level of production of these materials, our medical workers will face risks that they should not have to face. Without enough equipment, our doctors will be forced to make decisions about who they can and cannot treat.”
The Defense Production Act contains a set of sweeping and powerful authorities that the President can use in times of national emergency, to expedite the production, acquisition, and distribution of goods and materials. The Defense Production Act currently authorizes $133 million per fiscal year to that end.
“We must do whatever is necessary to treat and save, as many lives as we can. I urge Trump to provide our nation’s citizens and our heroic medical workers with the supplies they so desperately need. Our country is suffering from an unprecedented pandemic, the President must ensure that every possible resource is dedicated to combating the impact of COVID-19,” said Rep Vargas.
Vargas represents California’s 51st Congressional District which includes the southern portion of San Diego County, all of Imperial County and California’s entire U.S.-Mexico border. Vargas was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012 and is currently serving his fourth term in Congress. He serves on the House Financial Services Committee.
###