Apparel and Footwear Industry Expresses Concern of Irreparable Harm by Delaying COVID Relief Package 

The American Apparel & Footwear Association expressed surprise and dismay at the announcement by President Donald Trump today that he has instructed his representatives to stop negotiating on another round of COVID-19 relief until after the election. 

“The economy is not something that can be put on hold until a time that might be more convenient. People are suffering today. Now is the time to deploy all the tools in our toolbox – both to attack the underlying health crisis and to provide crucial liquidity and credit relief for manufacturers, brands, retailers, and the workers they support," said AAFA President and CEO Steve Lamar, "This is a critical time – with the important holiday season about to start – and we cannot afford to hit pause. We urge all parties to stay at the negotiating table to craft and pass a comprehensive COVID relief package now." 

AAFA has been a leader in urging Congress to pass COVID-19 stimulus relief as soon as possible, to avoid irreparable harm to the industry and the U.S. economy.

Last week, AAFA co-signed a joint-industry letter (sent September 30), imploring Congress to reach a bipartisan deal on legislation to prevent catastrophic economic harm that would result if Congress does not pass additional emergency relief before adjourning for the election. Earlier this month, AAFA sent a multi-association letter to Congressional Leadership outlining specific priorities.