When everyone can agree, with COVID-19 shutting down cities in the United States and countries in Europe. A stimulus to get the people thru these tough times is necessary, unfortunately Republican Senator Mitch McConnell sent a stimulus package that doesn’t really help the most needy.

The legislation would provide checks of $1,200 per adult for many families, as well as $500 for every child in those families. Families filing jointly would receive up to $2,400 for the adults. The size of the checks would diminish for those earning more than $75,000 and phase out completely for those earning more than $99,000. The poorest families, those with no federal income tax liability, would see smaller benefits, though the minimum would be set at $600.

Washington Post

Limiting the payment amount for those without federal tax liability was a change from the original White House proposal, and caught some Republicans off-guard, provoking criticism. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) tweeted: “Relief to families in this emergency shouldn’t be regressive. Lower income families shouldn’t be penalized.”

Washington Post

An early analysis showed the vast majority of middle class people would receive the cash payment, but the percentage doing so falls dramatically toward the bottom of the income distribution. About 22 million people earning under $40,000 a year would see no benefit under the GOP plan, according to an initial analysis by Ernie Tedeschi, a former Obama administration economist.

Washington Post

It’s not that McConnell’s payouts are less than what others like Senator Cory Booker and Maxine Waters have suggested ($2K). The issue is with the provision that would limit the amount for those without federal tax liability. A provision that even caught the White House by surprise. As noted in the Washington Post McConnell’s proposal would prevent approximately 22 million people earning under $40K a year. THe people who need the stimulus the most!!!!

Meanwhile McConnell’s proposal would take care of the wealthy. How many times do the people have to be slapped in the face in favor of big corporations receiving tax breaks?

Action is needed, but we need the right action to happen!

As always…

there is something to be said, “It’s On Broadway” to step up and say it!!