Congress rushes to pass coronavirus bill as soon as this week to aid workers and healthcare system
by Susan Ferrechio
| March 11, 2020 04:23 PM
Congress this week could pass a new coronavirus spending bill in response to an increased threat of the deadly virus spreading and overwhelming existing resources.
House Democrats are set to unveil a multi-billion dollar spending package on Wednesday that would provide paid sick leave, expand unemployment insurance, and ensure lunch is provided for low-income students if public schools close by expanding food stamps, among other provisions.
The measure would also provide for free coronavirus testing, protective gear for healthcare workers, and mobilization of federal resources to increase the capacity to treat the sick.
House and Senate Republicans have not seen the bill but are open to supporting it. The Senate, led by Republicans, could vote on the package this week but is awaiting the details, aides said. The Trump administration backs at least major parts of the bill addressing paid leave.
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