Texas Border Business
Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Filemon Vela (TX-34) announced the introduction of the Coronavirus Victims Compensation Fund of 2020.
The bill, modeled after the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, would establish a review process to provide monetary compensation for those that become ill or have died as a result of COVID-19.
“The novel coronavirus has drastically altered the lives of millions of Americans,” said Congressman Filemon Vela. “While other nations have swiftly enacted policies and procedures to flatten the curve and protect their nations’ citizens, America’s response, under the failed leadership of the Trump Administration, has been marred by a lack of a unified, coordinated and effective response. The consequences of these failures have now resulted in the loss of over 130,000 American lives, and millions of Americans infected by the virus.
“Scientists are still in the process of determining the long-term health effects of this deadly virus, though it is becoming more and more clear that many individuals will have months or years of health issues. The toll this virus has taken on those who have passed away or survived this deadly virus will be felt for years to come.
“This administration failed to protect American lives and we will be living with the consequences of these failures for years to come. The Coronavirus Victims Compensation Fund of 2020 will help bring much-needed relief to those who have been personally impacted by COVID-19.”
“I applaud Congressman Vela for recognizing the toll this heinous virus has taken on those afflicted by it. I am grateful to him for seeking a remedy to some of the hardships endured by COVID-19 victims like myself. Today, I continually suffer the after-effects of COVID-19 with ongoing physical, emotional, and psychological issues.” said Ivy Jay Arroyo, COVID-19 survivor. “Our GREAT country tragically mourns the loss of more than 130,000 individuals to this virus. Thousands more have been infected, and sadly, I expect these numbers will continue to climb. Establishing the Victim’s Compensation Fund proposed in Congressman Vela’s bill is, quite simply, the right thing to do and a truly compassionate act. I strongly support the Coronavirus Victims Compensation Fund Act of 2020.”
The Coronavirus Victims Compensation Fund of 2020 would:
- Establish a compensation fund for eligible Americans who have become ill or died as a result of COVID-19;
- The compensation application would allow eligible Americans to provide information regarding the extent of their loss for consideration;
- Individuals would receive compensation no later than 20 days after the Special Master determines the amount of compensation due;
- Authorize appropriated funds as needed for five years with the fund permanently closing one fiscal year after the Special Master determines that no additional claims can be filed;
- Create a new website and office developed and administered by a Special Master to assist in the application process.
To read the full text of the bill, click HERE.
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