And there are hurdles awaiting congressional leaders as they push for quick passage of the $900 billion relief deal, which is expected to include $300 per week in jobless benefits, direct payments of $600 for individuals, $330 billion for small business loans, more than $80 billion for schools, and billions for vaccine distribution. "Compromise language is being finalized and, now that this obstacle has been cleared, a final agreement on an emergency relief package is significantly closer." Senate Majority Whip John Thune warned on Saturday that the effort to finalize a deal could spill over into Monday. Asked for an update on talks earlier in the day, Senate Minority Whip DIck Durbin replied simply, "Toomey, Toomey, Toomey." The absent senators would need to return if there's a vote Sunday on a relief package, but if there's an attendance problem, a vote could potentially be delayed until Monday.

Source: CNN December 20, 2020 05:32 UTC