Columns
There is no doubt America relies on our farmers and ranchers to provide a strong, safe, and stable food supply. In times such as the current COVID-19 situation, their importance is even more obvious.
As the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic continues, most of our attention has been focused on fighting this disease and the economic consequences of our response. While we continue the fight this disease, we must also be sure to not let our guard down against fraud. Recently, there have been numerous reports of scams taking advantage of this pandemic.
Join Congressman Smith, the Nebraska District Office of the Small Business Administration, and other speakers to learn about programs in the CARES Act which could help your small business during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Adrian Smith released the following statement after President Trump approved Governor Ricketts request for a major disaster declaration due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic:
In order to address COVID-19, Congress and President Trump have enacted three major pieces of legislation to fight this disease and help as many Americans as possible stay employed, with the goal of resuming our strong economy as soon as possible when this pandemic subsides.
Just a few weeks ago, we were in the midst of the strongest economy in years. We now find ourselves with questions about what will happen to our economy due to the COVID-19 outbreak. In contrast with other times of economic uncertainty, this interruption in our economy was not caused by bad decisions or nefarious actors, nor were we nearing the end of a business cycle.
While the COVID-19 outbreak continues, drastic measures have been put in place to slow the spread. Unprecedented actions such as the closures of shops and restaurants, recommendations against gatherings of more than 10 people, and the canceling of many sporting and entertainment events have altered our very way of life.
It is clear coronavirus presents a major threat to the health of the most vulnerable among us, and Americans are rightfully taking steps to protect themselves, their families, friends, and neighbors from transmission. In addition, federal, state, and local governments have taken measures to fight against the spread of this virus, provide care for those infected, and maintain economic security.
Every ten years, our government is required by our Constitution to conduct a census of our population. This year, from March 12-20, the United States Census Bureau will send out census forms and instruction to every household in the United States. Although the form may be an inconvenience, it is of the utmost importance to our political process.
This week the Ways and Means Committee held our annual hearing with Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar. He discussed the administration's current work on health care, the administration's efforts for combating coronavirus, and answered questions we had on both subjects.