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WNIJ's summary of news items around our state.

Durbin Urges Passage Of COVID-19 Relief Package

durbin.senate.gov

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin said Congress needs to pass a COVID-19 emergency relief package now. He said the legislation is substantial and includes funds to support various measures. 

“We have a $908 billion program that can make a significant difference in the lives of many Americans and save many American businesses that are teetering on the brink of failure and bankruptcy.”

But Durbin said passage of such a bill remains uncertain.

“We believe that if we let this come to the floor, and we let the members vote, that there will be a bipartisan coalition to pass it. It’s up to Senator McConnell, the Republican leader. He’s got to decide whether or not we should.”

Major measures in the proposed legislation include: 

-$180 billion for unemployment insurance, including an extension of $300 per-week benefits

-$288 billion for small business funding, including Paycheck Protection Program loans

-$35 million for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Provider Relief Fund Initiative

-$160 billion for state and local government funding, and

-more than $50 billion for nutritional and rental assistance.

The relief package is meant to last through March.