Coronavirus Emergency Relief Bill Will Bring Nearly $2 Billion to Vermont

WASHINGTON (WEDNESDAY, March 26, 2020) – Vermont Senator Patrick Leahy announced Wednesday that Vermont is poised to receive nearly $2 billion in federal resources in the emergency spending package poised to pass Congress this week.  The Senate passed it at Midnight.  Leahy, as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, is a lead negotiator of provisions in the bill that will direct formula funding to the state to combat the spread of COVID-19 and support those on the front lines caring for the sick.  

Chief among the federal resources coming to the state will be $1.25 billion through the Coronavirus Relief Fund, established to support state and counties that are addressing the economic devastation brought about by the virus.  Leahy pushed for a small state minimum for the $150 billion fund, ensuring that Vermont would receive sufficient support.