Rep. Payne, Jr. Offices to Stay Open, but Reduce Interactions Due to Coronavirus Crisis 

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. will suspend all in-person meetings temporarily to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease.  His offices will remain open to help constituents if they need assistance with a federal agency, particularly if they call the office with their requests.  But interactions with people will be kept to a minimum in the interest of public safety.

Rep. Payne, Jr. said he wanted to continue his work for the district and protect the health of residents at the same time.

“I want to keep our offices open to help people access the emergency services provided in our federal coronavirus support bills, such as free testing and possible unemployment benefits,” said Congressman Payne, Jr.  “I know my constituents will have questions about how to stay safe and handle their basic needs during this global pandemic.  I want to be available to answer those questions, so they can continue to focus on their health as well as the health and safety of their loved ones.”

Rep. Payne, Jr. voted for two crucial appropriations bills to provide emergency funding and support to Americans during this public health crisis.  The first one, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act (H.R. 6074), provides $8.3 billion in emergency assistance to fully fund medical efforts to combat the coronavirus.  It became law on March 6, 2020.  The second one, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201), would provide free coronavirus testing for all Americans and assistance to help Americans handle the economic effects of the disease, such as mandatory paid sick leave for all workers.  The House passed it on March 14, 2020.