LaHood Introduces Legislation to
Support Motorcoach Industry and Transportation Service Providers
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[September 15, 2020]
Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) today
introduced the Coronavirus Economic Relief for Transportation
Services (CERTS) Act of 2020 in the U.S House of Representatives
with Rep. Albio Sires (D-NJ), which will support transportation
service operators that have been disproportionately impacted by
COVID-19. The legislation was previously introduced in the U.S.
Senate by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Jack Reed (D-RI).
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Due to COVID-19, transportation service providers
are facing a significant loss of business and increased operating
costs due to expanded public health guidelines for social
distancing, PPE, and disinfecting of surfaces and equipment. The
CERTS Act will provide $10 billion in emergency economic relief
funding, in the form of grants and other economic assistance,
through the U.S. Department of the Treasury, to motorcoach
operators, school bus companies, U.S. flag passenger vessel
operators, and other U.S. transportation service providers
designated by the Secretary of the Treasury in consultation with the
Secretary of Transportation.
“Illinois’ motorcoach and bus companies provide important
transportation services to communities across our region and offer
good-paying jobs,” said Rep. LaHood. “Staple transportation
companies in Central Illinois, like Peoria Charter Coach, have been
disproportionately impacted by coronavirus.
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"These small businesses are struggling to keep
employees on payroll and pay for business expenses. In addition to
previous assistance through the Payment Protection Program, if
enacted, this bipartisan legislation will provide further support
for the motorcoach industry and transportation service providers,
ensuring that our critical transportation system gets through this
difficult time.”
"We have been very moved over the past few days from
the support that we have received from the community and especially
Representative Darin LaHood. By presenting the CERTS Act in the
House of Representatives, the Congressman is giving Peoria Charter
Coach and the motorcoach industry a fighting chance to survive the
pandemic. Thank you Congressman LaHood for hearing our desperate
cries for help,” added Bill Winkler, President/Owner of Peoria
Charter Coach.
[Office of Congressman Darin LaHood] |