BINGHAMTON, NY (WSKG) — Republican Congressman Tom Reed (NY-23) said Wednesday he will continue to push for another COVID-19 relief package while attention in Congress shifts to filling the vacancy at the Supreme Court.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he will move to confirm a new justice this year to fill the vacancy left by the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
When asked if the recent events might deter another relief bill, Reed said his goal remains unchanged.
“I assure you we have not lost focus, what we’re working on in this office, as well as our colleagues that changed the national conversation last week, where it was dead on arrival, the COVID-19 package,” the Congressman said.
Reed said he would push a bill to provide immediate relief particularly through the Paycheck Protection Program and for agricultural communities. Reed said Wednesday the proposed bill would set aside $138 billion for small businesses and families hurt by the pandemic.
Reed represents parts of the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes and western New York, including Ithaca and Corning.
According to Reed, members of the House intend to stay in Washington until they are done with another COVID-19 stimulus package.