WASHINGTON, D.C.— Following House passage of President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:

“We applaud the House of Representatives for passing the American Rescue Plan, the most robust COVID-19 relief bill yet, which focuses on vaccination efforts, desperately needed economic relief, and gradually increasing the national minimum wage to $15. It’s clear why the Senate must pass this bill: families continue facing economic anxiety, unemployment claims are skyrocketing and people are behind on rent and facing household hunger. Every element of this package is critically important and they must not be whittled down in the Senate. Therefore, we urge the administration and the Senate to do everything in their power to quickly pass the American Rescue Plan — including the $15 minimum wage increase — to ensure Americans get the help they need.”

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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.