A $483 billion coronavirus aid package flew through the Senate on Tuesday after Congress and the White House reached a deal to replenish a small-business payroll fund and provided new money for hospitals and testing.
Passage was swift and unanimous, despite opposition from conservative Republicans. President Donald Trump tweeted his support, pledging to sign it into law. U.S. Senator Pat Roberts of Kansas applauded the Senate's passage of the of the aid package.
“This additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program is crucial to keeping small businesses in Kansas afloat,” said Sen. Roberts. “I look forward to the program reopening for new applicants and encourage small businesses impacted by the virus in Kansas to apply.”
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas also spoke on the passage of the aid package.
“The successful PPP program has already provided more than 26,000 Kansas businesses with vital resources to continue operating and keep their employees on the payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Sen. Moran. "I am pleased the Senate could reach a bipartisan agreement to replenish this program, and I urge my colleagues in the House to quickly pass this relief package so that the many more small businesses with applications hanging in the balance can receive relief, keep the lights on and save jobs."
It now goes to the House, with votes set for Thursday. Kansas' 4th District Congressman Ron Estes indicated the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act has his support.
"Two weeks ago, Republicans requested this additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program. Unfortunately, partisanship held up this much-needed relief," said Congressman Estes. "I look forward to voting on this legislation in the House this week and delivering it to the President’s desk quickly. It’s critical to continue keeping more small businesses open and Americans employed."
The emerging virus aid package — originally designed by Republicans as a $250 billion stopgap to replenish the payroll subsidies for smaller businesses — has grown into the second largest of the four coronavirus response bills so far.
Democratic demands have caused the measure to balloon, though Republicans support additions for hospitals and testing.
The now $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program includes $60 billion or so set aside for — and divided equally among — smaller banks and community lenders that seek to focus on underbanked neighborhoods and rural areas. Democrats have highlighted the number of smaller and minority-owned shops missing out on the aid.
Another $60 billion would be available for a small-business loans and grants program delivered through an existing small business disaster aid program, $10 billion of which would come in the form of direct grants.
The bill provides $25 billion for increased testing efforts, including at least $11 billion to state and tribal governments to detect and track new infections. The rest will help fund federal research into new coronavirus testing options.