On July 29, 2021 UPE and the County met to discuss the American Rescue Plan Act. Sacramento County is slated to receive approximately $300 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to support COVID-19 response efforts. These funds are intended to mitigate economic harm from the pandemic in Sacramento County. The County will receive these funds in two installments, 50% (approximately $150 million, which has been received), and the balance approximately 12 months later. The County may use the funds to:
- Support public health expenditures related to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Address negative economic impacts caused by the public health emergency
- Serve low-income communities and individuals, families and businesses hardest-hit by the pandemic
- Provide premium pay for essential workers
- Replace public sector revenue lost due to the pandemic
- Invest in necessary improvements to water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure
As a result, UPE reiterated our position that all of our 005 members, which the County deemed essential, should be recognized for performing their essential duties throughout this pandemic. UPE proposed $13 hour for every hour worked from March 1, 2020 thru December 31, 2021.
The County will take back our proposal and discuss with their team. We expect to hear back in September. UPE will continue to keep you posted. Thank you to the 005 Board Members for their advocacy.