Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is hopeful that a deal is near on a new coronavirus relief package.
The Kentucky Republican spoke on the Senate floor and said he is heartened by progress in the bipartisan negotiations. He also warned that things could still fall apart.
McConnell noted that work on the bill could continue through the weekend. The new relief package would cover roughly 900 billion dollars.
It will likely include a new round of direct stimulus payments to Americans, along with enhanced federal unemployment benefits.
The stimulus checks are expected to be around $600.
The bill does not include aid for state and local governments, a key priority for Democrats. It also does not include liability protections for businesses, which is a top priority for Republicans.
Lawmakers are anxious to finish their work and get home for the holidays.
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