Billions voted to fight the virus

Senator Tim Scott released the statement below after voting for more than $8 billion in emergency funding to combat COVID-19, also known as novel coronavirus. The measure passed the Senate 96-1, and is headed to the President’s desk for signature.
“It is critical our nation’s public health system has the resources it needs to combat the spread of coronavirus here in the United States, and I am glad the Senate swiftly passed this supplemental funding. Our federal, state and local agencies have done an amazing job thus far, and this new support will help them continue to do so. With funding for measures including vaccines and therapies to combat the virus, diagnostics, tele-health, state reimbursements and loan subsidies so the Small Business Administration can assist small businesses impacted by the outbreak, this is a truly comprehensive package.” Senator Scott added, “It is also important that the American people continue to take simple steps to help prevent the spread of the virus, such as vigorous hand washing, and staying home when you are sick. While we can expect the number of confirmed cases to rise as testing for the virus increases, for the majority of Americans the immediate health risk is considered low. By taking common sense steps to help slow the spread of the virus, we all can play an important role. I encourage those with questions and concerns to stay up to date at CDC.gov or their local public health department.”