Congressman supports new COVID relief bill

A few weeks ago, congressman Steven Horsford of Nevada’s 4th Congressional District, which includes Lincoln County, sat down for an interview with the Record. A lot of what Horsford wanted to talk about focused on the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which Horsford strongly supports because he believes it will provide a massive economic boost to help small businesses and individuals get out of the economic slump caused by the COVID-19 crisis.

The $1.9 trillion dollar package received final approval from the House on March 10 and was heading to President Joe Biden’s desk for his signature. The massive bill was passed along party lines, with all Republicans and one Democrat voting no.

Horsford said the bill, while controversial, includes funding for smaller governing bodies and assisting with anything COVID-related, which includes city and county expenses, as well as accounting for lost revenue due to the nationwide shutdown following the spread of the disease. Horsford claims Lincoln County, which is facing a budget shortfall, will receive a million dollars in relief funds, and Caliente is poised to get around $200,000. The congressman noted that money is to help support first responders and health services, and will be allocated based on eligibility.

Horsford addressed Lincoln County’s initial difficulties in receiving adequate supplies of the vaccine, saying supply-chain problems affected communities all over Nevada, in part due to bad weather conditions. Since the interview, vaccine distribution has risen by more than 28 percent. The addition of the recently approved Johnson & Johnson vaccine has also improved the supply of vaccines in Lincoln, and Horsford says the bill will ensure there are enough vaccinations available for 200 million people by July. 

According to Horsford, the best way to prevent COVID-related furloughs of Nevada public employees is the American Rescue Plan Act, which he said will support families and individuals struggling to make ends meet, as well as prevent layoffs. 

As for how the virus has affected the economy of the state as a whole, Horsford noted tourism has been hit hard across the board. The congressman said economic experts are of the opinion that as long as 70-80 percent of the state is vaccinated, “We’re going to crush this virus, and the economy will rebound.”

Horsford did not win Lincoln County during the last election, and was asked what he is planning on doing to try and bridge the gap between his constituents in Lincoln and himself. He said the best way he can do that is to represent the people of Lincoln County as best as he can. He wants to work with town halls and address the needs of the diverse communities under his jurisdiction. To that end, he invited anyone with concerns or ideas to get in touch with him or his staff. You can either call (702) 963-9360 or submit a request at horsford.house.gov.