Pelosi's Rule Change is Unconstitutional

This week, House Democrats broke over 230 years of precedent. Even during both World Wars and the 1918 flu, Members of Congress showed up to vote in person. But under Nancy Pelosi’s new proxy voting scheme, nearly a third of House Democrats stayed home instead of returning to Washington for legislative business, having members who represent other congressional districts vote in their place.


Members of Congress have a constitutional duty to represent their constituents, which means showing up for work. The American people should expect nothing less – especially in the midst of an ongoing health and economic crisis. That’s why I joined my Republican colleagues in a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Democrats' proxy voting scheme.

Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has provided much-needed financial relief to small businesses and employees during the COVID-19 crisis. But now that businesses are starting to reopen, they must adapt to new reopening restrictions.

This week the House passed the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act to allow for more flexibility for small businesses with approved PPP loans. This includes a number of provisions that small businesses have said will make it easier for them to recover, such as extending the forgiveness period to 24 weeks and allowing businesses that receive forgiveness to also receive payroll tax deferment. It now awaits action in the Senate.

Ensuring Second Amendment industries’ access to PPP

The coronavirus outbreak has impacted businesses throughout the country, which is why Congress passed economic relief programs like the Paycheck Protection Program. However, it has become apparent that some larger financial institutions are discriminating against legal businesses for political reasons, including the firearms and ammunition industries.

No eligible business should be excluded from participating in programs like PPP, which is why I joined several of my colleagues in urging the Treasury, Federal Reserve and Small Business Administration to prevent this unlawful discrimination. You can read the full letter here.

USDA now accepting CFAP applications

Farmers in Georgia’s 12th District have continued to work day in and day out to help put food on our tables, despite facing challenges due to COVID-19. This week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) began accepting applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP).


This new program provides $16 billion in assistance to farmers and producers who have experienced losses as a result of the pandemic. To learn more about CFAP eligibility and how to apply for this direct assistance, click here.

Lowering out-of-pocket insulin costs for seniors

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced lower out-of-pocket insulin costs for many seniors with Medicare Part D plans and Medicare Advantage plans for the 2021 plan year. Thanks to the Trump Administration’s leadership, seniors will not pay more than $35 for life-saving insulin!

Houses of Worship are essential

I’m grateful that President Trump has recognized the importance of community to people of faith and declared Houses of Worship essential. After urging Governors across the country to safely reopen, the CDC has released guidance to help prepare for in-person gatherings.

>> Do you have a question about the coronavirus or the response by Congress? Email me!


As always, my office is here to help. You can email me ⇒ HERE, contact any of our offices or join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.


Sincerely,

 

Rick Allen
Member of Congress
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