After months of bitter negotiations, Congress reached a deal on a 900 billion coronavirus relief package on Sunday. The bill seeks to boost the economy struggling amid the pandemic. The bill also aims to assist Americans most affected by the pandemic. Details of the coronavirus relief package were not released. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said the plan ” delivers much-needed funds to save the lives and livelihoods of the American People.” Acknowledging that the current coronavirus relief package is inadequate, Pelosi stated Democrats intend to seek more relief after President-Elect Joe Biden takes office in January.
Included in the coronavirus relief bill are the following:
- $82 Billion in education funding
- $600 to most adults and $600 per child
- $284 Billion to the Paycheck Protection Program
- $20 Billion in Small Business Grants
- $15 Billion to Live Event Venues
- $300 unemployment insurance supplement
- $30 Billion towards the procurement and distribution of the vaccine
- $25 Billion in rental help and a continued Federal moratorium on evictions
With the pandemic, more Americans are struggling financially. The need for help is increasing. Democrats must win the Senate seats in Georgia to control the House. The likelihood of approval of another stimulus package increases with a Democratic Congress. President-Elect Biden said the plan was the beginning.
“Immediately starting in the New Year, Congress will need to get to work on support for our COVID-19 plan. To support struggling families and investment in jobs and economic recovery. There will be no time to waste.”
The coronavirus pandemic has had devastating effects on Americans. The virus has killed over 300 thousand, infected more than 17 million, and closed businesses across the country.
The House votes today on the coronavirus relief package.
Danielle Sanders is a writer and journalist living in Chicago. Find her on social media @DanieSandersOfficial.