(LEX 18) — Americans may get coronavirus recovery checks under new proposal

Financial help may be coming to Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thursday, Senate republicans introduced a one trillion-dollar emergency aid package. The proposal includes direct payments to individuals and loans for airlines and small businesses.

Under the Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security Act, individuals making up to $75,000 annually would be eligible for a $1,200 check from the federal government. Couples that file taxes jointly and make less than $150,000 dollars annually could get $2,400. The cash would be delivered in a one-time payment.

Individuals making more than $99,000 dollars annually though would not get any money.

The proposal also includes 300-billion dollars in small business loans, which can be used for payroll and employee health benefits.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell says it also addresses health resources and student loans.

"This is a form of tax relief we want to push to taxpayers right away,” said McConnell. “It's not an ordinary policy, but this is no ordinary time. The American people need help and they need it fast."

However, Senate democrats are calling the plan a "non-starter." Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi say it "puts corporations way ahead of workers."

