McConnell Covid-19 Stimulus: 'It's About Time to Get This Done'

A bipartisan group of lawmakers delivered details of their proposed $908 billion pandemic-relief package, splitting it into two parts in recognition of deep differences over state aid and a liability shield for employers.

Now it will be up to Democratic and Republican leaders in Congress to find a way to get one or both parts of the plan through the House and Senate before the last of the economic relief provisions from an earlier stimulus expire at the end of the year.

The senators who worked to negotiate a compromise over the past two weeks are proposing a $748 billion relief plan that includes nearly $300 billion in help for small business, $300-per-week in enhanced unemployment benefits and aid for vaccine distribution.

Their second bill only contains two elements: $160 billion in state aid sought by Democrats and the liability provisions that Republicans have said should be part of an aid package.

“Bipartisanship and compromise is alive and well in Washington,” said Democratic Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia in a press conference unveiling the proposed bill. “Now it’s up to the leadership to take it and make this happen on a timely basis.”

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