Governor Newsom Statement on HEROES Act Vote

SACRAMENTO (Friday, May 15, 2020) – Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement following the House’s vote on the HEROES Act:

“The COVID-19 global pandemic has caused a national recession, and cities and states across the country cannot weather this storm alone. Even states like California that boasted record reserves after years of prudent spending decisions are facing deep revenue shortfalls that put core government services at risk.

“The magnitude of this crisis requires a response only the Federal Government can provide, and the relief proposed in the HEROES Act answers this call. The HEROES Act provides critical support for our health care workers, teachers, police officers, and firefighters. It also provides protections for renters and people who have lost their jobs, safeguarding livelihoods and helping countless communities avoid economic devastation. I am grateful to Speaker Pelosi for leading the effort to pass this important legislation.

“This economic crisis has harmed red states and blue states alike, and local governments in rural areas and urban cities are all facing critical funding shortfalls. As this bill and the ensuing debate moves to the Senate, I encourage our leaders in Washington to put partisanship aside and pass significant federal relief that will help state and local governments to sustain core services like public education, public health and public safety.”