Congress Leaders Reaches Deal on $900 Billion Covid-19 Relief Package

Finally, Congress struck a deal on a nearly $900 billion Covid-19 relief package that includes a new round of direct payments and help for jobless Americans, families and businesses struggling in the pandemic.

“More help is on the way,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. said Sunday evening on the Senate floor. “Moments ago, in consultation with our committees, the four leaders of the Senate and the House finalized an agreement.”

The agreement includes stimulus checks of up to $600 per person based on income, a federal unemployment insurance bonus of $300 per week, over $284 billion more in loans for businesses struggling to pay rent and workers, vaccine distribution funds and $82 billion in funding for colleges and schools. It also includes the Democrats’ priority of $25 billion in rental assistance and an extension of the eviction moratorium.

Lawmakers are expected to vote on the package beginning later Sunday or Monday.