Printing Industries of America has called upon Congress to take swift legislative action to mitigate the economic impact of this pandemic on the printing and graphic communications industry by creating a federal emergency program to provide compensation for COVID-19-related employee leave.
“While initial legislation (H.R. 6201, Families First Coronavirus Response Act) calls for a federal mandate requiring businesses with 500 and fewer employees to provide 12 weeks of paid leave, PIA is hearing loud and clear from its members that there is not liquidity nor tolerance for debt available to fulfill this mandate. The result could lead to an acceleration of layoffs and closures–causing loss of employer-sponsored health insurance for workers at the time it may be most needed,” stated Michael Makin, President and CEO of Printing Industries of America.
“Additionally, policy promising future employer tax credits–while helpful for longer-term stability–will not address the cash hemorrhaging PIA member companies are experiencing now due to idled presses, customer closures in key verticals like retail, hospitality and transportation, and the uncertainty of future business. Government policy solutions that can be implemented immediately are required and must move quickly through the legislative process and to the President’s desk,” added Makin.
PIA along with dozens of other industry trade associations has submitted a formal request to urge Congressional leadership to act on the creation of a federal emergency leave plan as soon as possible. Printing Industries of America is dedicated to advocating this policy solution, which is one of many that may be necessary to help our industry face the COVID-19 pandemic.
Printing Industries of America is committed to the safety and well-being of its members, the printing industry, and its workforce during the ongoing COVID-19 situation. PIA will continue to serve as the industry’s voice in Washington to underscore the critical need for a government response to address the consequences COVID-19 poses to public health, the nation’s economy and its workforce.
Visit their COVID-19 Information & Resources for the Printing Industry page, which will provide continued updates on legislative responses as well as assets relevant to businesses and employees in our industry.
