Currents News Staff
From lost jobs to medical bills, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a major, unexpected strain on the finances of millions of Americans.
And as the end of the year approaches, some financial lifelines are set to expire.
Some members of Congress want to see more aid approved and distributed before Joe Biden’s inauguration.
The projected winner introduced a diverse team of experienced economic experts he says will chart his administration’s course for the U.S. recovery.
“The team I’m announcing today will play a critical role in shaping our plan for actions starting on day one, and move fast to revive this economy,” said Biden
Those close to Biden say his plans for his first 100 days in office include an expansive stimulus plan.
But a group of bipartisan senators who unveiled their own $908 billion proposal Dec. 1 say Americans need help before January 20.
“We’ve worked night and day throughout the Thanksgiving recess because we recognize that families all across America are struggling,” said Republican Senator Susan Collins of Maine.
Relief measures put in place earlier in the year — like a moratorium on evictions and a federal student loan payment freeze — are set to expire within weeks, leaving millions hoping Republicans and Democrats will put aside the politics and make a deal before year’s end.
“Let’s hope our Democratic colleagues will finally let us make law in all the enormously important areas where we do not even disagree,” said Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.
“The Republican leader’s idea of action on COVID has been to bring partisan legislation to the floor and then demand everyone accept it,” said Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.
Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi had their first talk since the November 3 election, though Mnuchin said it was more about the December 11 government funding deadline.