Millions of Americans received a stimulus check for $1,200 back in March but since then, even though the pandemic has continued to cause financial woes across the country, a second round of direct payments hasn't gone out because Congress can't agree on a package.
In recent days, they have gotten closer to a compromise, but the recent proposed bipartisan bill doesn't include a second stimulus check. It seemed that it might go through, with President-elect Joe Biden calling it a "down payment" and saying he'd push for more direct payments after he is in office on January 20, but now the White House suggested a new proposal that includes a stimulus check, though not as much as the last one.
The latest bill could send $600 to eligible Americans, half of what they got in the last one. However, while that will help many people, the bill will also hurt some since it would eliminate a $300 a week employment benefit that both sides of the aisle were in favor of. Although the offer, which came in late Tuesday, is something to consider, it might cause more harm than good as Congress had been getting close to coming to terms on something and the new proposal throws a wrench in that.
Whatever they decide on, something will likely happen soon. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said Congress won't adjourn until some kind of COVID-19 relief package is agreed on. He stated, "Leaving here without a COVID relief package cannot happen," and suggested setting aside the biggest sticking point - state and local funding that Democrats insist is included in the bill but Republicans are against. Democrats rejected that idea so they will continue to negotiate.
It is becoming increasingly crucial a bill passes in the next couple weeks because on the day after Christmas, 12 million Americans are set to lose their unemployment benefits, plus eviction moratoriums expire as do protections for student borrowers and a federal program for paid family leave.
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