Democrats seek to pass $500 billion plus expanded food stamps in economic relief legislation this week
by Susan Ferrechio
| April 08, 2020 08:37 AM
House and Senate Democrats are demanding Congress approve a $500 billion relief package this week that includes a 15% increase in food stamp benefits.
The request more than doubles the $250 million in emergency funding sought by Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin to extend urgent small business aid that is running dry. Democrats want the additional money for healthcare facilities and to help state and local governments.
“The heartbreaking acceleration of the coronavirus crisis demands bold, urgent and ongoing action from Congress to protect Americans’ lives and livelihoods,†Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement Wednesday. “As Democrats have said since Day One, Congress must provide additional relief for small businesses and families, building on the strong down-payment made in the bipartisan CARES Act.â€
President Trump signed the $2.2 trillion CARES Act on March 28, which included $350 billion for small businesses to stay in operation and avoid laying off employees. The small business aid program is running out of money, and Mnuchin has asked Congress to quickly pass an additional $250 billion
more
https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/congress/democrats-seek-to-pass-500-billion-plus-expanded-food-stamps-in-economic-relief-legislation-this-week
