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'That's A Nonstarter': Local Politicians Decry Lack Of Local Aid In Failed Republican Relief Plan

Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi
Frank Eltman
/
AP
Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi

House Democrats continue to call on Senate Republicans to include federal assistance for state and local governments in the next coronavirus relief package.

In May, the House approved a $3 trillion package. This week, the Senate announced a $500 billion proposal, which failed on the Senate floor Thursday.

Long Island Congressman Tom Suozzi said that plan included “zero dollars” for state and local aid.

“That’s impossible, that’s a nonstarter. Too many states — Republican states, Democratic states throughout America will be devastated — are devastated without the assistance of federal government for state and local aid," Suozzi said.

On Long Island, Nassau County has a $750 million budget deficit. County Executive Laura Curran said she needs to submit a budget by next week.

She said the anticipated federal money would prevent cuts and layoffs in schools, sanitation and fire departments.