Washington, D.C. – Following Senate passage of a $1.9 trillion dollar COVID relief bill, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“This COVID relief package exemplifies the leadership and seriousness in addressing the pandemic that the American people voted for when they chose a new direction for Congress and the White House.  We applaud Leader Schumer and the Senate for passing this urgently needed relief.  We are disappointed that it does not include a long overdue increase in the minimum wage, and call on Congress to work with the Biden-Harris administration to accomplish this goal quickly.  No one in this country should have to live in poverty while working a full-time job.”

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About People For the American Way

People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org