Lipinski backs bipartisan effort at passing COVID-19 relief

U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski voiced support for a bipartisan proposed framework for another COVID-19 relief bill while decrying the “bickering and intransigence” that has prevented the passage of more aid in Congress.

On Tuesday, members of the Problem Solvers Caucus, including 25 Democrats and 25 Republicans, unveiled their “March to Common Ground” framework, according to a news release.

The proposed framework includes about $25 billion for COVID-19 testing and contact tracing, about $316 billion in aid for individuals and families and more than $500 billion for state and local governments. Many aspects of the framework come with a six-month sunset through the next presidential term, except aid to state and local governments, which extends for a full year.

“For the good of our country, Congress and the President must come together and negotiate a relief package,” Lipinski said in a statement supporting the passage of the proposal.

The congressman acknowledged that the framework represents a compromise and “is not perfect.” Still, Lipinski noted it includes money for public transit and other transportation sectors, an issue he’s long focused on during his time in Congress.

Lipinski added that he was pleased to hear House Speaker Nancy Pelosi say Congress will remain in session until an agreement is reached.

“For the good of our country, we must come together on COVID relief for the American people,” Lipinski said in the statement. “It’s way past time to end politics as usual in Washington.”