President Trump signed a $100 billion COVID-19 aid package March 18 that includes provisions for emergency paid leave for workers, as well as free testing for COVID-19, according to www.cnbc.com.
The Senate passed a bill earlier in the day to expand paid leave and unemployment benefits in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The chamber approved the bipartisan plan in a 90-8 vote.
Some GOP lawmakers opposed the bill, arguing it could harm small businesses. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell urged Republicans to support the bill and said he would vote for the plan despite “real shortcomings.”
“I do not believe we should let perfection be the enemy of something that will help even a subset of workers,” McConnell said.
The House bill the Senate considered provides enhanced unemployment insurance; ensures businesses with fewer than 500 employees offer two weeks of paid sick leave to their workers; includes increased funding for food assistance programs; and guarantees free testing for COVID-19. The bill faced opposition from Republican lawmakers in the House, and the revised legislation made changes that could limit the number of people who could get up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave.
The Trump administration also seeks an $850 billion to $1 trillion stimulus measure, which could include direct payments to Americans, tax cuts or relief to suffering industries. McConnell said March 18 he would “not adjourn the Senate until we pass a far bolder package which must include significant relief for small businesses all across our country.”
