Charlotte, NC – Over the last few days, Republicans have began talking about what a new coronavirus relief measure may look like. Majority Leader Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) said that the measure would be most likely needed in the coming weeks. He has continued to say that the Senate has no appetite for the plan previously passed by House Democrats.
McConnell has indicated that the measure will not include extending unemployment benefits as the House Democrats have pushed for. McConnell had also said previously there was no desire to send additional payments to individuals, but the President indicated he would be open to this last week.
In a win for Democrats, McConnell says he would be open to some form of relief for state and local governments, but only related to COVID-19 related expenses and revenues lost. McConnell also wants protections for businesses included as part of any package that is passed. This liability protection has been a sticking point for Republicans.
Senate Republicans have been under a lot of pressure to act. The pressure has come from both sides, as House Democrats and Senate Republicans up for reelection are both pressuring to act quickly. McConnell and the White House have not pressed for additional relief measures as they are hopeful to open the economy and get everyone back to work.
The $600 per week bonus that was placed on unemployment benefits is a big focus of the get back to work plan. Many Republicans and business owners have said its difficult to get people to return to work as employees are able to make more money at home. Millions of Americans have filed for unemployment assistance since the beginning.
Long-term unemployment concerns persist. While many Americans believe they may have their jobs in the short term, some experts warn there may be long term concerns. Reports across the country highlight businesses that are closing, many deciding not to reopen. Businesses are filing for bankruptcy and it’s unknown how many more will fail during this period.
The expected package from Republicans is expected to be around $1 trillion, but the inclusions in the package are unknown. The Senate returns from Memorial Day recess on June 1st and talk is expected to pick up at that point.
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