WASHINGTON, DC – Thursday night, the Senate passed an amendment authored by U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH) to the budget resolution to require the administration to make public and keep the country informed of how much money has been spent on relief from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As we consider this $2 trillion stimulus request from the administration, it’s important for the American people to know how their tax dollars are being spent to combat this pandemic,” said Portman.
“This amendment will ensure Congress has the information it needs to direct tax dollars to areas with the biggest need. So far the CDC has only distributed $3 billion of the $8.75 billion appropriated for vaccine distribution, for example.
Nearly $14 billion in previously appropriated funding for COVID-19 testing has still not been obligated. And according to the U.S. Department of Education, states have spent only $4.38 billion of the emergency $68 billion in K-12 funding provided last year. With greater transparency in this process, Congress can focus on ensuring the most urgent needs are met and this amendment will help us do just that.”