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Washington, D.C.— Today, House Small Business Committee Chairwoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) issued the following statement after the Labor Department released its March jobs statement:

       “Unfortunately, the March jobs report comes amid the ravishing of the COVID-19 virus, which has inflicted devastating harm on the physical and economic well-being of Americans and the global community. 

       “Few have borne the economic brunt of this crisis as painfully as the small business owners that line our Main Streets and fuel our economy. Now, these companies are facing gut-wrenching decisions over how to protect the health and safety of their employees and customers while also making payroll, paying rent, and keeping the business afloat. 

       “Congress took the right steps in acting so far, passing over $2 trillion in emergency relief, including hundreds of billions for forgivable small business loans and grants. As these programs roll out, I will be keeping a watchful eye to ensure small businesses get the relief they need quickly and in line with Congressional intent. 

       “These were good bipartisan efforts, and yet, we must do more. In the coming weeks, I will continue to negotiate additional relief measures that bring peace of mind and security to hardworking American families.”