Northeastern Pennsylvania's working class tradition is a longstanding one, going back to our coal-mining forbears. Putting workers first has always been a priority of mine, and I believe these efforts are more important than ever amid COVID-19. Over the past few weeks, I'm proud that the federal government is taking steps I have been calling for to strengthen workplace safety standards, especially those in frontline industries whose workers never stopped clocking in since the pandemic began. This includes people who are still mining coal for a living. That's why I reintroduced the COVID-19 Mine Worker Protection Act this week.

This is a bill supported by both Democrats and Republicans that would implement responsible safety guidance and deliver personal protective equipment so that miners can continue to work, stay healthy and provide for their families during this health crisis.

It's been more than a decade since we've raised the federal minimum wage, and as a result, there is not one place in America where a full-time worker making $7.25 per hour can afford rent, food and other essentials.

That's why I am co-sponsoring the Raise the Wage Act to gradually raise the federal minimum wage to $15 by 2025.

This will make a real impact in Northeastern Pennsylvanians' lives. Raising the wage will help 101,000 workers in the Eighth Congressional District -- boosting the average annual pay for a third of our workforce by $3,700. It's time we raise the wage and give thousands of workers a fair shot. 

Source: Economic Policy Institute

• The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has expanded eligibility and increased benefits for individials experiencing food insecurity. 

Source: Pennsylvania Department of Health

Be safe and well,