Statement from John B. King Jr., Ed Trust president and CEO, on the House’s passage of H.R. 8337:

“We are encouraged that lawmakers worked in a bipartisan manner last night to pass H.R. 8337, a continuing resolution (CR) that will keep government open and operating until mid-December. While it is imperative that Congress continue to work together to fund the government for fiscal year 2021, the House’s CR included critical funding for nutrition assistance programs. Alongside our partners, Ed Trust has advocated for an extension and expansion of the Pandemic EBT program, as well as child nutrition waivers to ensure easier access to school meals and more flexibility for students and families. We are pleased to see the inclusion of these provisions and urge the Senate to pass the House’s measure without delay.

“While inclusion of this nutrition assistance marks a first step in the fight against food insecurity, it is vital that lawmakers continue to work on additional COVID-19 relief legislation. As states endure substantial budget cuts, additional federal relief is urgently needed for our schools, districts, and institutions of higher education to provide for students who are facing multiple pandemics (COVID-19, the economic crisis, and the on-going impact of systemic racism). Additionally, lawmakers must provide essential resources for broadband and connectivity to help close the digital divide and ensure that students are able to learn during this uncertain time.”