Republicans Work on New Stimulus Bill as COVID-19 Surge Worsens

The U.S. has now become one of the world’s worst COVID-19 hot spots with Florida alone reporting more cases than all but eight entire countries. The majority of states are frantically rolling back reopening measures as the virus continues to run rampant. For example, all indoor restaurants, wineries, movie theaters, zoos, museums and bars in California have been ordered to re-close. LA and San Diego schools have also been ordered to return online only. In Texas, a two-week shutdown is being considered and Oregon has banned indoor gatherings larger than ten people. While the outbreak continues, White House and Senate Republicans are working on a new stimulus proposal they hope to unveil sometime next week. It’s believed the bill will cost around $1.3 trillion and include financial incentives to help motivate schools to reopen. It’s also rumored to protect health care workers and companies against lawsuits that could arise as a result of the pandemic.