Ernst Provides Update on Additional COVID-19 Relief Efforts, Urges Iowans to ‘Stay Strong’

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) is continuing to work through the weekend to help deliver additional relief to Iowans across the state. As the Senate continues to forge ahead on the Phase 3 relief package, Ernst has been hosting calls with Iowans from all corners of the state that represent workers and businesses in industries across the spectrum. Today, the Senate is expected to vote on moving forward with the bipartisan Phase 3 package—making the additional relief Iowans and all Americans are calling for one step closer to reality.

Ernst is focused on a number of areas important to Iowans in this Phase 3 package, but three areas she highlights in this short video:

• Iowa’s health care industry and workers on the front lines;
• Iowa’s child care providers, centers, and workers; and,
• Iowa’s small businesses and workers across the state's economy.

Click here to download a video of Ernst discussing what she’s working on in the Phase 3 relief package.

In addition to a brief update on where things stand in the Senate, Senator Ernst recognized the hard work of those on the front lines of the pandemic, including first responders, health care workers, and those helping to keep the supply chain running.

Click here to download a short video of Ernst thanking those on the front lines against COVID-19.

Background on Ernst’s efforts to combat COVID-19:

Senator Ernst is fighting to deliver relief to all Iowans, including families, small businesses, and seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some of her efforts during this challenging time:

• Passed a “Phase 1” bipartisan package to provide additional resources to federal, state and local authorities.
• Passed a “Phase 2” bill to provide paid sick leave, free COVID-19 diagnostic testing, and increased support for nutrition for seniors and children.
• Called for an ‘all hands on deck’ approach to tackling the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Urged the Senate to prioritize relief for hospitals, community health centers, and workers on the front lines.
• Announced a proposal to immediately redirect the over $350M in the Presidential Campaign Election Fund to be used to purchase specialized face masks and personal protective equipment.
• Asked the State Department to immediately act to get Iowans stranded abroad back home.
• Held a telephone town hall with thousands of Iowans to help answer some questions and hear directly from folks.
• Participated in discussions at the State Emergency Operations Center with Governor Kim Reynolds last weekend.
• Discussed the need to work together – at federal, state, and local level – to tackle COVID-19.
• Published a column on everyone doing their part to protect seniors and fellow Iowans from COVID-19.

For additional information for Iowans on COVID-19, you can visit Senator Ernst’s website, which includes resources for families and individuals, small businesses, and seniors.

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