A Statement from Mayor Gahan on the American Rescue Plan

Today, the US House of Representatives is voting on the American Rescue Plan. This plan has immense impacts on local government, including offering $350 billion to help local governments bridge budget shortfalls and mitigate the fiscal shock from COVID-19.

Additionally, the bill provides $1,400 direct payments to individuals, emergency paid leave for over 100 million Americans, grants to help local small businesses, additional unemployment benefits, education funding, COVID-19 funding, and more. This plan, if passed, would provide huge benefits to local governments and residents.

Former Indiana Senator Joe Donnelly stated in the IndyStar that, “Poll after poll shows this bill has clear bipartisan support. But even if you don’t believe the polling – believe the words of Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard, New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Gary Mayor Jerome Prince. These bipartisan mayors, representing diverse parts of the state, all signed onto a letter to Congress last month calling for “immediate action” on the bill.”

Now, a month later, I am once again calling on Congress to pass the American Rescue Plan and get much-needed help to New Albany residents. The COVID-19 Pandemic has brought immense challenges to our River City, but passing the American Rescue Plan will be a major step in getting our Nation back to normal.

-Mayor Jeff Gahan