Policymakers Must Act Now
Federal and state policymakers need to act quickly to help the schools and employers—particularly small and midsize businesses—that are taking steps to support their students and employees. We also need solutions for the individuals and families whose health and livelihoods are most at risk.
Officials must recognize the need for an interrelated web of supports that provides income support, health care, child care, as well as food and housing security. Congress is working on passing a coronavirus bill—but the aid can’t come soon enough. Any legislative action must include immediate relief for those most impacted, including cash assistance—an idea that has quickly gained bipartisan support—and expanded unemployment insurance benefits for those who lose their jobs as businesses shut their doors.
It is also during this time of crisis that we should test bold new approaches. While ideas such as Universal Basic Income have long been debated in theory, now’s the time to put them to the test. A one-time infusion of cash might not be enough to keep workers and families afloat in a pandemic that could have ripple effects lasting many months, and more sustained supports should be explored.
The fault lines won’t fade anytime soon. As officials address the immediate crisis, they should give special consideration to those individuals, families, industry sectors, and communities most likely to be affected by extended periods of medical, economic, and social disruption.