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Reps. Sánchez and Davis Lead Bill to Help Health Workers with Dependent Care

April 8, 2020

Washington, DCReps. Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38) and Danny K. Davis (IL-07), both members of the House Ways and Means Committee, introduced legislation to direct $850 million to states via the Social Services Block Grant to cover dependent care costs for essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A range of essential workers are covered under the bill, including: health care workers; emergency response workers; sanitation workers; workers at businesses that state or local officials determine must remain open; and any other worker who cannot telework and who the state or local government deems essential. Importantly, the funds would include care for either children or adults in their households who are incapable of self-care, and the bill gives states flexibility to pay child or adult daycare providers, set up emergency care facilities, or reimburse workers directly for their costs.

"Health care professionals and other essential workers leave their homes and families each day to show up for us," said Congresswoman Sánchez. "We need to show up for them by making sure their loved ones are cared for while they fight this pandemic."

"During this crisis, we must do everything we can to support our essential workers who are keeping us alive, fed, safe, and functioning," said Congressman Davis. "These workers risk their health and give tirelessly so that our citizens and communities can survive. The least we can do is cover their child care costs so that they know their loved ones are well cared for as they give to so much to us."