[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 63 (Tuesday, March 31, 2020)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E341]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          MIDDLE CLASS HEALTH BENEFITS TAX REPEAL ACT OF 2019

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                               speech of

                             HON. TOM COLE

                              of oklahoma

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 27, 2020

  Mr. COLE. Mr. Speaker, it is not lost on me how consequential the 
Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act is for our 
nation.
  Along with many of my colleagues, I wish I could be there in person 
to voice my support for this historically massive and wide-reaching 
legislation. The absence of Members from our chamber doesn't make the 
House of Representatives any less united in our support of this 
significant relief package for the American people, who are greatly 
suffering by no fault of their own due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  The natural disaster caused by COVID-19 is unlike any other our 
nation has encountered in modern history. Its impact is severely felt 
across the whole of society--causing an unprecedented strain on our 
public health defenders and medical providers as well as sharp economic 
losses and unexpected disruptions for Americans of all stripes.
  Hardworking Americans, families, communities, small businesses and 
numerous industries have been hit hard and fast in a matter of days and 
weeks. Given the enormous scope of this disaster, its consequences and 
the damage already done, it is critically important to get help to 
those Americans facing difficult times. I am encouraged that the CARES 
Act extends a much needed helping hand.
  To help individuals and families weather this storm, the CARES Act 
provides financial assistance in the form of direct cash payments and 
unemployment support. The legislation provides unprecedented help to 
sustain small businesses and their workers, after many businesses on 
Main Street have been forced to close their doors to comply with the 
guidance and orders from federal, state, local and tribal officials.
  For our health workers fighting on the front lines across the nation, 
this relief package replenishes vital medical supplies like masks, 
respirators and other equipment. Moreover, it provides reinforcement 
supplies and resources for state and local response efforts.
  Finally, I worked very hard to ensure tribal nations are equipped to 
face and fight the unknown challenges ahead with this coronavirus like 
other state and local authorities. Oklahoma is home to 39 sovereign 
tribes, and each one plays an invaluable role in the lives and health 
of their members and surrounding communities. I am proud that this 
relief package dedicates generous resources specifically for tribal 
nations to respond.
  Therefore, had I been present, I would vote ``yea'' if there was a 
recorded vote.

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