Coronavirus updates: COVID-19-hit Senate back to work on huge stimulus bill
MARCH 23, 2020 / CBS NEWS
The Senate has resumed negotiations on a third economic stimulus package to help Americans and the American economy weather the coronavirus pandemic. The phase-3 support bill is expected to designate between $1.5 and $2 trillion to help businesses survive as millions of their customers are told to stay home.
The Senate’s inaction has weighed heavily on financial markets, in spite of the Federal Reserve’s promise to shore up businesses large and small.
Senator Rand Paul tested positive for the disease over the weekend, and at least four other senators have self-quarantined after possible exposure.
More than 33,000 people have contracted the virus in the U.S., more than anywhere else but China and Italy. More than 470 people have died of the disease in the country, and President Trump has approved disaster declarations in New York and Washington, two of the hardest hit states. California’s request is being processed.
Worldwide, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases is nearing 350,000, and the death toll is over 15,000, according to Johns Hopkins University.
