Congress Finally Passes $1.9 Trillion Coronavirus Relief Package

The U.S. House of Representatives also marked history yesterday with the passage of the $1.9 trillion Covid-19 relief package. After months of fierce political debates, a wildly contentious election, an initial House vote, and a tie-breaking Senate vote, the House has once again approved the newly altered legislation. The final vote came to 220 to 211, split almost entirely along party lines. Among the most crucial measures in the American Rescue Plan are the $1,400 direct stimulus payments to millions of Americans, extended and enhanced unemployment benefits, a funding boost to vaccine distribution, and a plan to reopen schools. The bill will be sent to President Biden’s desk tomorrow for his signature and will mark his first major victory since acquiring power less than 2 months ago. But before that happens, the president will give his first prime-time national address tonight. In a 20-minute long speech, he’s expected to remember those who lost their lives to Covid-19, tout the bill’s success, recognize the country’s vaccination efforts, and discuss what comes next.