The Covid-19 outbreak highlights the inequity of our system for many Rhode Islanders. But the problems we face now are not new for communities that have faced systemic failures for decades. This crisis further reinforces the inherent need for healthcare, housing, food, and income for every Rhode Islander. As we work together for the safety of our friends and neighbors, it is more urgent than ever that our government take strong, decisive action to ensure that we meet the basic human needs of all Rhode Islanders.

The Rhode Island Political Cooperative calls on the General Assembly to immediately draft and pass the Rhode Island Rescue and Recovery Act which would guarantee that all Rhode Islanders will have their basic needs met throughout the crisis: (1) healthcare, (2) housing, (3) food, and (4) income.

Our state must guarantee that every Rhode Islander has the healthcare they need during the coronavirus crisis, including guaranteeing:

• Free and accessible testing and treatment for coronavirus, as rapidly as possible.
• Free and accessible coronavirus vaccines, as soon as they are ready.
• Free hospital beds, ventilators, and ICU units for everyone who needs them, as rapidly as possible.

Our state must guarantee that every Rhode Islander has housing during the coronavirus crisis, including guaranteeing:

• A moratorium on evictions, foreclosures, and utility shut-offs.
• Housing for homeless people and survivors of domestic violence.

Our state must guarantee that every Rhode Islander has enough food during the coronavirus crisis, including guaranteeing:

• No systemic food insecurity.
• Free food for anyone who cannot afford it.
• Free delivery of food to people who cannot leave their homes.

Our state must guarantee that every Rhode Islander has enough income during the coronavirus crisis, including guaranteeing:

• Unemployment insurance that provides all workers who lose their jobs or have their hours reduced with 100% of their previous income without delay, on a weekly basis, up to $75,000 per year.
• Paid sick leave, paid family leave, and fair compensation for childcare.