Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett Emphasizes Importance of Extending Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation for Residents of the Virgin Islands

Statement

As the COVID-19 public health and economic crises persist across the nation, Congresswoman Plaskett is highlighting the need for Congress to extend the $600 weekly emergency unemployment payments that are due to expire on July 31. The Congresswoman released the following statement:

"The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act established the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) program, which provides this critical assistance to families who are struggling to make ends meet during the pandemic. If the Senate does not pass the House-approved Heroes Act before the end of the month, this benefit will abruptly end.

"Virgin Island workers and families are facing tremendous strain due to the COVID-19 crisis, and the last thing Congress should do is allow a critical lifeline like emergency unemployment compensation to expire in a few short weeks. This assistance allows Americans who have lost their jobs during the pandemic to afford life's necessities, like food, housing payments, and medications. In May, I supported the Heroes Act, legislation that passed the House of Representatives and extends the FPUC through the end of the year. Now, the Senate must also pass this crucial bill and protect Virgin Island families from utter disaster.

"According to Ways and Means Committee analysis, if Senate Republicans allow emergency unemployment compensation to end on July 31, recipients of the assistance in the Virgin Islands will experience a shocking 59% cut to their weekly benefits.

"I've heard from vulnerable families who are terrified at the prospect of losing this vital support. I'm going to fight to extend this essential assistance that is helping workers and families survive these unpredictable, frightening times."

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