Whitmer Calls For Testing, Budget Help In Testimony To Congress

MICHIGAN — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called on the White House to help states with coronavirus testing and budget shortfalls in testimony to Congress Tuesday.

Whitmer highlighted the state's aggressive action against the coronavirus while testifying remotely.

“Since I first declared an emergency in response to this pandemic, my administration has taken aggressive measures to fight the spread of COVID-19, prevent the rapid depletion of the state’s critical health care resources, and lower the chance of a devastating second wave,” Whitmer said. “We need the White House to create a specific, long-term plan outlining how the federal government will ensure we have adequate testing supplies so we can gather the data we need to make informed decisions about re-engaging our economies. And we would all benefit from a guarantee of free testing nationwide coupled with a robust federal messaging campaign to encourage Americans to get tested.

“As we re-engage Michigan’s economy, we know it is crucial we do this incrementally," Whitmer continued. "The worst thing we can do is to open up in a way that causes a second wave of infections and death, putting our front-line heroes at further risk and extending the economic crisis. We have to get this right.”

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The testimony was delivered before the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. Whitmer called on the federal government to help states like Michigan ensure and promote widespread testing for the coronavirus. The governor also highlighted the state’s efforts to secure personal protective equipment for front-line workers, expand testing capacity and eligibility and address health disparities in communities of color.

The governor also echoed her calls on the federal government to help states address the significant revenue shortfalls they are facing after dedicating resources to saving lives and protecting front-line workers.

“Right now, the language in the CARES Act does not provide states with the flexibility we need to address our revenue shortfalls," she said. "A broader solution is needed to provide states with additional support and this critical flexibility. I thank members of the House for their work and hope that Congress and the Administration can come together to get it done.”

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