State Representative Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur) released the following statement following President Trump signing the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES):
“Congress just passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) that provides needed relief for the many Central Illinois small businesses – restaurants, hotels, music venues, bars, and others – suffering through the government-mandated “social distancing” period. We need to make sure workers in the 101st House District have jobs to return to once we defeat coronavirus. And defeat it we will.
Our respective governments — federal, state, and local — have asked us, with good reason, to practice “social distancing” to contain the spread of the virus. As a result of instituting nationwide social distancing and other measures state and local governments are taking to inhibit the spread of the virus, businesses are hurting and need help. The just-passed CARES act provides that relief.
Admittedly, I have reservations about its complexity, scope, and pork, and I believe that an infusion of capital to workers and businesses is only going to be effective if we have a path back to economic function. We need that as soon as possible because small businesses can’t borrow and Americans can’t plan for an uncertain restart.
The CARES Act will provide needed capital for businesses that are shut down because of government action in response to public health concerns. We must work together immediately to find the protocols necessary to get Illinois and America back to work safely but productively. We must do that for the good of all of us and future generations.
Americans have stood up to many challenges, put a man on the moon, and have built the greatest nation in the history of the world. Now, we are looking coronavirus in the eye and will take it down, like we have every challenge along the way. Stay safe, stay healthy and remember to practice good hygiene. I’m looking forward to seeing all of you again soon.”