WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, Representative Tom Reed released the following statement regarding the unveiling of the Senate’s HEALS package and the inclusion of legislation to expand how local governments can utilize federal aid from the CARES Act. 

“This is a positive step in the right direction and a clear indication that policymakers on both sides of the aisle understand the severe economic challenges facing local governments. With greater flexibility, localities will be able to better utilize existing federal funds to address their specific regional needs,” said Rep. Reed. 

“That being said, solving the crisis facing our local governments will require more action. We’ll continue to advocate for direct, targeted aid to municipalities as outlined in our ‘SMART’ Act. We care about our local governments and want to ensure they receive enough assistance to fully weather this crisis,” continued Rep. Reed.

In May, Reed led the introduction of the bipartisan, bicameral “SMART” Act, which would distribute $500 billion in direct aid to local governments. 

As the "SMART" Act was being crafted, Tom directed the development and inclusion of “maintenance of effort” language in the bill to ensure localities continue to receive the full economic assistance they deserve from their state governments. “Maintenance of effort” language was included in the Senate HEALS proposal. 

A one-pager summarizing the "SMART" Act can be found HERE.

Additional Resources:

• Wellsville Daily Reporter: Reed, counties call for direct aid to local governments

• WENY News: Reed offers 'SMART Fund' to offset state & local gov't losses during pandemic

• Buffalo News Editorial Board: Bipartisan group, including Reed, offers hope that Washington may aid states, municipalities

• Buffalo News: Reed, allies introduce bipartisan aid proposal for states, localities