May 13, 2020 Meeting Minutes

Secretary Richard Weiss called the meeting to order via telephone at 12:15 p.m. EDT. Also, on the line were Overseer Leroy Watson, Executive Committee member Sheri Watson, National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller, and, joining later, Potomac Grange Steward Amanda Brozana Rios.

LEGISLATIVE REPORT

Burton Eller reported that the House has passed a new $3.2 trillion COVID-19 relief bill. The bill has something for everybody including additional funds for cities and states. Leroy Watson asked if the bill included non-profits as small businesses needing aid. The bill does include non-profits, and Burton feels the Senate will not have concerns over this inclusion.

Burton does feel the Senate may be concerned with so much aid to cities and states so soon. The Senate also wants liability insurance for companies bringing back workers, e.g. meat packing plants, included in the bill. (A Reuters report later in the day reported that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell declared the bill “dead on arrival.”)

OTHER BUSINESS

  • Amanda joined the meeting and asked if we wanted to receive the Journal of Proceedings in digital form. Most said “yes.”
  • Leroy asked if Potomac has paid National the promised DC Experience payment. Weiss read from the April 11, 2020 minutes to confirm that the commitment is $2,000. Amanda will follow up with Mandy Bostwick to have her submit an invoice.

There was no further business. The meeting adjourned at 12:45

Respectfully Submitted,

Richard Weiss, Secretary