Delivering for Brighter Days

When COVID-19 began sweeping across our nation in March, I knew Congress must take deliberate action to keep our economy afloat and our communities protected. As a small business owner, it was clear that nearly every industry would require relief as they adapted to new government mandates and forced closures.

In order to do so, I helped pass the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Securities Act to give direct relief for families, support for our health care professionals and provide desperately needed aid for Main Street America. Since being signed into law by President Trump, I've delivered over $217 million across all of the 25th District's thirteen counties, directing hundreds of millions of dollars to Texas healthcare centers to purchase vital PPE and medical supplies to help Texans survive and recover.

Our nation's future depends on educating the next generation of American leaders in the classroom. That's why I supported targeted funding for school districts to aid in remote learning and the purchase of protective equipment for both students and faculty as they return to the school this year. In TX-25, Johnson County ISD's received over $4.1 million and Coryell County ISD's received over $1.5 million to help students continue their education as parents return to work and students adapt to a new normal.

While Main Street America was dealt a near-fatal blow, the doors of over 6,000 small businesses in the 25th District remain open with their employees on payroll thanks to the Paycheck Protection Program. During stops across TX-25, I've heard firsthand from dozens of small business owners who were able to keep every single one of their staff employed – moms, dads, grandparents, veterans and young people just getting their start still have jobs today because of the quick action we took to inject capital where it was needed most.

At a townhall in Burnet County this year, a business owner explained to me the challenges they're having in rehiring and retaining their employees because of individuals making more money at home on unemployment. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office determined that unemployment will be higher in 2021 because of the reduced incentive to work. The American spirit is all about empowering people to work hard in pursuit of their dreams and the dignity of reaping reward, it is not about the government permanently subsidizing expenses. We must focus our efforts on getting Texans off of unemployment and back to work in order to restore every facet of our economic dominance.

As your voice in Washington, D.C. I've delivered results to curb shortfalls during the pandemic, but endless spending isn't the answer – we need principled policies that will move us forward toward brighter days. I'm very proud of the work we've accomplished for the 25th District and I'll continue fighting for all Texans as we emerge on the other side of this storm.

In God we trust,

Roger Williams

Member of Congress