Stimulus Check 2 can be skipped for the new "skinny" bill — here's what you get

Stimulus Check 2 can be skipped for the new "skinny" bill — here's what you get

Amid uncertainty over the fate of Stimulus 2, Senate Republicans plan to formally introduce a "skinny" stimulus package this week.

CNBC reports that the $500 billion bill is expected to include $300 to $400 per week in federal unemployment benefits, but not $1,200 in stimulus 2.

This "skinny" bill, along with a narrower proposal from some House Democrats, shifts the focus from Stimulus 2 to the continuation of federal unemployment insurance supplemental benefits, which expired at the end of July.

The program was a particularly vexing issue in negotiations between lawmakers and administration officials. President Trump even jumped to an executive order to reduce and extend federal unemployment insurance, which many states are preparing to offer for at least a few weeks. [However, CNBC noted that the small Republican proposal is unlikely to become law, and the possibility of a stimulus check2 and continued unemployment relief remains an open question.

Prior to this "skinny" bill, there were several formal proposals, including a second round of direct payments.

The HEROES bill passed by the House would provide an additional $1,200 check to Americans earning less than $75,000 per year (if single) and less than $150,000 per year (if married), with proportional benefits for those earning slightly more. Dependents regardless of age will also receive $1,200, up to a maximum of $6,000 per family.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's HEALS bill introduced in July would provide similar benefits. Dependents would receive only $500, but there would be no cap on the amount a family could receive.

A third proposal by a group of Senate Republicans would have provided $1,000 to dependents regardless of taxpayer and age, but with a lower eligibility cap.

Lawmakers will not return to Washington for the next legislative session until after Labor Day, at which point it could be taken up for debate. However, there is no indication that House Democrats, administration officials, or Senate Republicans are any closer to an agreement, and there is no indication that they will return to the table to continue discussions.

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