Cornyn Votes to Reimburse Texas Communities for Providing Coronavirus Care

Recently on the Senate floor, I discussed my vote on emergency funding for our nation’s Coronavirus response, which includes $950 million in reimbursement funds for states and local communities that have responded to the virus. Excerpts of my floor remarks are below, and downloadable audio and video can be found here.

I encourage all of my constituents and all Americans to read the best guidance on how to keep themselves and their families safe. While this is a new virus, the same old techniques that your mother taught you while you were growing up apply: Wash your hands, disinfect commonly-touched household surfaces, and avoid contact with those who are sick.

I have spoken with President Trump, Secretary Azar, my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee who did good work on this supplemental appropriation we just voted on, and the need for additional coordination and resources.

In this supplemental appropriation bill that we just voted on, I requested funding for state and local communities, including San Antonio, which had been at the forefront of this battle, and today we delivered a big win for them. The supplemental funding bill we just passed will make $950 million available for reimbursement for the cost of Texas and other states across the country - the cost they’ve incurred while monitoring and treating individuals exposed to the coronavirus.

I want to thank Senator Shelby and the ranking member, Senator Leahy, for their work on this and I'm glad that this much-needed relief is now on the way.