A day after President Donald Trump asked Congress for $250 billion more in emergency small business loans to deal with the negative economic impact of the Coronavirus, Democratic leaders in Congress said they would agree to that money if the President would also add aid for emergency food assistance, state and local governments and public health needs nationwide.
"The heartbreaking acceleration of the coronavirus crisis demands bold, urgent and ongoing action from Congress to protect Americans’ lives and livelihoods," said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Democratic Leader Charles Schumer in a joint statement issued Wednesday morning.
The Democratic request includes:
+ The $250 billion for small business loans
+ $100 billion in emergency health funding
+ $150 billion in aid to state and local governments
+ Extra emergency food aid (food stamps)
The White House said Tuesday that it wants action on the extra $250 billion in aid by Thursday - when the Senate holds a scheduled session.
Most lawmakers are not on Capitol Hill this week, as Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said he would seek to pass the plan by unanimous consent, or on a voice vote.
The House meets next on Friday.
No actual legislation has been unveiled by either party at this point.
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