House Passes Bipartisan Coronavirus Relief Bill, Mitch McConnell Stalls Senate Action

The House passed a sweeping coronavirus response package Saturday that includes $1 billion in food aid, extends paid sick leave and broadens access to free virus testing.

The bipartisan bill passed easily 363-40 after receiving the support of President Donald Trump on Friday. Action stalled in Senate where Majority Leader Mitch McConnell refused to take it up until next week.

“I fully support H.R. 6201: Families First CoronaVirus Response Act, which will be voted on in the House this evening,” Trump tweeted. “This Bill will follow my direction for free CoronaVirus tests, and paid sick leave for our impacted American workers.”

He continued: “I have directed the Secretary of the Treasury and the Secretary of Labor to issue regulations that will provide flexibility so that in no way will Small Businesses be hurt. I encourage all Republicans and Democrats to come together and VOTE YES! I will always put the health and well-being of American families FIRST. Look forward to signing the final Bill, ASAP!”