“The delay in finalizing a deal came, in part, because aides launched a painstaking scrub of the bill’s text, to make sure that one of the most ambitious pieces of legislation ever attempted by Congress — thrown together in little over a week — actually said what lawmakers wanted it to say.”
The deal, of course, was the $2 trillion bill to assist individuals, businesses, hospitals, and state and local governments in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
This recognition of the role played by aides on Capitol Hill rang true for me because I know full well the essential work that our professional staff provides in Annapolis – researching, drafting, and advising.
Some of them, I’m proud to say, took my Legislation class as law students.
Countless health care professionals are putting their lives on the line.
Staffers working for the government or non-profits are also doing their part to lessen the burden.
Volunteers are contributing greatly as well.
During the negotiations that resulted in the legislative compromise, Speaker Nancy Pelosi quoted Pope Francis and his prayer to “enlighten those responsible for the common good.”
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/26/us/coronavirus-senate-stimulus-package.html
I hope to quote the Pope’s prayer at the start of the legislature’s next session.
