The Senate finally passed a $2 trillion economic relief bill last night by a vote of 96-0. It aims to help Americans thrown out of work when businesses shuttered to combat the virus’ spread. It contains an unprecedented expansion of unemployment benefits. 

Laid-off workers, as well as those who’ve lost substantial income because of the pandemic, will get an extra $600 a week, in addition to the standard unemployment benefit of about $400 per week, for up to four months. 

GOP senators wanted an amendment to reduce that benefit, saying it would, in some cases, mean laid-off workers would get more money than they had while they were working. It was rejected by a vote of 48-48.

Show notes:

• 10 highlights from the coronavirus stimulus package
• Phase 4 coronavirus response? Not everyone is on the same page
• Hospitals, health centers, veterans to get relief in coronavirus stimulus bill