Lawmakers ironing out COVID-19 relief

Congress is expected to pass a short-term budget resolution to avoid a government shutdown for another week while an economic stimulus package comes together. Funds for the government are set to run out on Dec. 11. A one-week extension would allow lawmakers to nail down plans for a COVID-19 economic relief bill, which Republicans on Capitol Hill could unveil any time.

What kind of relief can Americans expect? The GOP is proposing a $908 billion package with assistance for renters, small businesses, and people receiving unemployment benefits. It does not include checks sent to individuals like the $1,200 payments issued earlier in the pandemic. President Donald Trump has indicated he would sign the proposal if it passes.

Dig deeper: Read Steve West’s report in Liberties about the courts that are questioning governors’ pandemic powers.