Legislation to provide aid to states left financially drained by the COVID-19 pandemic is being introduced in the U.S. House. Congressman Fred Upton says the State and Municipal Assistance for Recovery and Transition, or SMART, Fund will provide $500 billion in emergency support to every state, county, and community in the country, while prioritizing assistance to the areas with the greatest need. It’s intended to enhance the $150 billion Congress already provided to state and local governments in the CARES Act. Upton says he’s been in contact with state and local leaders throughout the coronavirus crisis, and they are all in need of help. The funds included in the SMART Act will be divided according to population size, infection rates, and the amount of revenue lost by each area. Upton says the act will help to avoid mass layoffs, steep tax hikes, and a breakdown of essential services.
