Concord, NH- Today, Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) helped to introduce the Coronavirus Community Relief Act to provide $250 billion in stabilization funds for local communities, cities, and towns across the United States that are struggling amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The introduction comes after Kuster called on Speaker Pelosi last week for a COVID-19 response package that includes funding for smaller communities. Kuster is co-sponsoring the legislation with Representatives Joe Neguse (CO-02), Ben Ray Luján (NM-03), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Tom Malinowski (NJ-07) 

“The COVID-19 pandemic is impacting communities of all sizes in New Hampshire and across the country,” said Kuster. “This legislation is the result of concerns I have heard from municipalities and county administrators from across New Hampshire who are working diligently to protect their communities without any guarantee that they will be reimbursed. We must ensure that small localities have the resources and services necessary to meet the challenges presented by this public health and economic crisis. This legislation will help to protect all of our communities and ensure they have the support and resources they need.”

Cities and counties with under 500,000 people do not meet the population requirement for direct federal aid under the CARES Act, which was signed into law by the President last week. This bill would ensure smaller local governments across the country with smaller populations have access to coronavirus relief funds. 

Rep. Kuster has been advocating for resources for New Hampshire communities, health care professionals and first responders, as well as small businesses and employees in response to the COVID-19 crisis. See the bill text here.

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