RAPID RESPONSE: Senate Must Pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act

The COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic is mounting some of the biggest challenges and disrupting operations and lives across the country. We are currently facing unprecedented times that require swift and immediate action. The House did their job. It’s time for the Senate to act!Each day, the rapid developments of COVID-19 bring significant challenges and pressures to the operations and leadership of non-profits, including local YWCAs across the country. Nonprofits around the country and throughout the world are picking up the pieces in communities hardest hit by COVID-19. The growing pandemic has also had a ripple effect on communities and individuals who are seeking child care, housing, and quality health care services in times of crisis.

Take two minutes: Tell your Senator to support the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201) without delay. (Click here for Senators' contact info.)

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201) is the first response to address the concerns of non-profits and individuals across the country. This bill includes:Two weeks of emergency paid sick leave for an employee of an employer with 500 employees or fewer in order to address their own personal health care concerns including to quarantine, seek a diagnosis or access preventative care. This section also allows for partial coverage for employees that need to take leave to care for a sick family member or provide child care.Twelve weeks of job-protected emergency family and medical leave for those who have been on the job for at least 30 days, effectively expanding the number of workers who can take leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act.Refundable tax credit against payroll taxes to employers for 100% of wages paid for emergency sick leave required under this Act, for up to 10 days per employee.Emergency funding for unemployment insurance and for several nutrition programs, including the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).As the Senate considers the first of what’s expected to be multiple COVID-19 stimulus relief proposals, it is imperative that the solution reflects the needs of those currently on the front lines and individuals directly affected by the coronavirus. H.R. 6201 is that solution and we urge the Senate to pass this bill without delay.It’s time Congress took the first step to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201) now!