Including travel restrictions
In an address to the nation on Wednesday evening, President Trump said, “Together we are putting into policy a plan to prevent, detect, treat and create a vaccine against coronavirus to save lives in America and the world. America will get it done.”
President Trump issued a proclamation under a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act to restrict travel to the United States from foreign nationals who have recently been in certain European countries. The extensive travel that exists back and forth between Europe and the U.S. heightens the risk in America, he said. The restrictions begin on Friday, March 13, and will be in effect for 30 days.
The president also announced an economic assistance package to help support businesses and workers who have been impacted by the outbreak. He instructed the Small Business Administration to provide loans to businesses affected by the virus to help overcome income disruptions. He is calling on Congress to increase funding for the program by an additional $50 billion.
President Trump also called on Congress to immediately pass payroll tax relief.
He said he is leading an aggressive, whole-of-government approach to protect the health of Americans as well as the nation’s economic welfare.
“We are at a critical time in the fight against the virus,” he said. “I will never hesitate to take any necessary steps to protect the lives, health, and safety of the American people. I will always put the wellbeing of America first.”
He added, “As history has proven time and time again, Americans always rise to the challenge and overcome adversity. … We are all in this together. We must put politics aside, stop the partisanship, and unify together as one nation and one family.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For President Trump, his Cabinet, and all the staff members working with him on actions to protect the health of Americans.
- For Congress to give clear and quick consideration to the requests of the president for action.
- For the coronavirus task force and all of the medical experts engaged in working for the best outcome for Americans.
- For a spirit of unity among Americans as the nation faces the coronavirus pandemic.
Sources: WhiteHouse.gov, Real Clear Politics
