President Joe Biden signs the American Rescue Plan into law on March
11, 2021 as Vice President Kamala Harris looks on. (Photo by The White
House)
President Joe Biden recently signed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan into law, which includes much-needed aid to states and local governments, as well as stimulus payments to eligible people.
This package finally delivers the aid CSEA members have been fighting for throughout the pandemic to prevent devastating cuts. Throughout that time, we built pressure by contacting our elected representatives, posting on social media and holding events, like socially distant vehicle rallies, outside Congressional offices.
“Our union appreciates all the hard work of so many CSEA members who took the time to fight for this needed aid over the past year,” CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan said. “We would not have been successful without their efforts to help our state recover.”
Senate Majority
Leader Chuck
Schumer
Before the bill’s passage, Sullivan spoke with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to reinforce the vital need for this aid.
“We are beyond grateful to Senate Majority Leader Schumer and House Speaker (Nancy) Pelosi for their strong leadership in taking up the president’s call to get our governments back on track from the severe economic impact of this pandemic and to help so many Americans who’ve been struggling,” Sullivan said. “New York had no way of bridging the budget gap we faced without federal assistance or massive cuts. Coming from New York, Majority Leader Schumer knew what we needed. He also understood the heroic role our public workers played throughout this crisis, and will continue to play.”
Schumer also expressed his support for public workers who provide vital services, particularly during the pandemic.
“In our talks, he promised to fight for this aid to ensure essential workers didn’t face layoffs after all they’ve sacrificed and that public services wouldn’t be cut as New York tries to reopen and recover,” Sullivan said. “Senator Schumer delivered on his promises to CSEA and all New Yorkers, and this stimulus package will help all working people and families.”
