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Easing Families’ Financial Burdens through Federal Response to COVID-19

  • Family Economic Security
  • Federal Advocacy
  • State Advocacy
  • Trauma

By Emily Griffey

On March 18, Congress passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which provides relief to health care systems, additional paid sick leave, family leave and unemployment benefits.  

On March 26, the Senate passed the CARES Stimulus package that provides economic stimulus payments to families and additional unemployment benefits. The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the bill on Friday, March 27th 

Some key features of recent legislation that will impact families include: 

Calculate what your family will likely receive: Washington Post Calculator 

While this cash assistance is notable to alleviate immediate pressures and stimulate the economy, it is important to highlight , for example, that $1,200 will cover more expenses in Farmville than it will in Fairfax.   

While these paid leave expansions are commendable, there are notable exceptions. Employers with fewer than 50 employees are exempt from these requirements.  

Anyone that has lost a job or experienced a reduction in wages should contact the Virginia Employment Commission, even if self-employed.  

Additional resources are available for: 


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