The House of Representatives passed a $900 billion pandemic relief package Monday night that includes direct aid to individuals and businesses as well as resources to speed up the vaccine distribution across America.
The coronavirus relief package — 5,593 pages of legislation — was combined with a $1.4 trillion government funding plan. The House approved the combined legislation in a 359-53 vote.
Among the highlights included in the package are $600 direct payments to individuals, a $300 weekly unemployment supplement, $284 billion in forgivable small business loans and more than $8 billion for vaccine distribution.
Regarding direct payments, $600 would be provided to individuals making up to $75,000 per year and $1,200 to couples making up to $150,000. Payments will phase out for higher incomes. Families will also get an additional $600 per dependent child.
The weekly $300 unemployment insurance supplement is limited to 11 weeks.
Small businesses will be eligible for a second round of assistance through the Paycheck Protection Program, with $284 billion dedicated to funding those forgivable loans.
Other provisions of the bill include:
- $25 billion in a rental assistance, plus extend the federal eviction moratorium through Jan. 31
- $8 billion for COVID-19 vaccine distribution, $20 billion to provide the shot for free, and $20 billion for testing and contact tracing efforts.
- $13 billion for increased Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits
- $45 billion for transportation
- $82 billion for education
- $10 billion for child care assistance
- $15 billion for live event venues, movie theaters and cultural museums
- $7 billion for increase broadband access
Following the House approval, the package next goes to the Senate, where it needs unanimous approval before moving on to President Donald Trump.
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