6 Trillion COVID-19 Relief Plan Approved by Senate

Bipartisan Package Includes Funding for Healthcare, Education, and Economic Stimulus

March 23, 2024 3:53 PM EDT | CBS News

Following months of negotiations, the Senate has approved a $6 trillion COVID-19 relief package, which President Biden is expected to sign into law.

The bipartisan package includes $2 trillion for healthcare, including funding for vaccine distribution, testing, and treatment. $2 trillion is allocated for education, including funding for schools, childcare, and higher education. The remaining $2 trillion will provide economic stimulus, including direct payments to individuals and families, loans for small businesses, and support for state and local governments.

Congressional leaders hailed the passage of the package as a major step forward in addressing the ongoing pandemic and its economic fallout.

"This is a historic day for our country," said Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. "This package will provide much-needed relief to millions of Americans and help us rebuild our economy."

"We have put partisan differences aside to work together and get this done for the people of our country," said Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

However, some critics have argued that the package is too expensive and will add to the national debt. The White House has said that the investment is necessary to address the ongoing crisis.

The House of Representatives is expected to vote on the package next week, and President Biden is expected to sign it into law shortly after.