Rice proposes bill to reimburse restaurants for diners’ meals during pandemic

U.S. Rep. Tom Rice (R-SC) on Sept. 29 introduced legislation that would require the U.S. Treasury Secretary to establish a restaurant reimbursement program to help them weather the current pandemic storm.

“The coronavirus pandemic is impacting every American. As we continue to safely reopen, we have to help businesses rebuild,” Rep. Rice said. “The America Dines Out Act will help move us toward a quick economic recovery.”

H.R. 8434 would direct the Treasury Secretary within two weeks of enactment to create a mechanism to reimburse restaurants for 50 percent of diners’ meals. Restaurants would make submissions for the reimbursements, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Rice’s office.

The congressman said the bill is “modeled after a popular measure in England” that also reimburses restaurants 50 percent for diners’ meals.

If enacted, H.R. 8434 would include certain limitations on the program, such as providing the 50-percent discount up to $12 per diner per day. According to the bill summary, the discount would apply only to food and non-alcoholic beverages; for dine-in customers only; and only on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

“My district contains the Grand Strand and the Pee Dee, which is home to over 1,800 restaurants,” said Rep. Rice. “These business owners were forced to close their doors, and the America Dines Out Act will help them reopen.”

H.R. 8434 has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Financial Services Committee.