Today on the Hill: House Queues Up Vote on Coronavirus Stimulus Proposal

Amid rising concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, House Democrats have introduced an economic stimulus measure aimed at stemming the economic impacts of the virus. The package includes emergency provisions that would provide paid sick leave, extended unemployment insurance, expanded food aid to low-income families, and coverage to ensure free testing and treatment. The House is expected to pass the bill at some point today. However, immediate action in the Senate appears unlikely after Congressional Republican leadership — including House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) — announced their opposition to the effort this morning. If disagreements on the response bill continue to linger, lawmakers could work through the weekend to try and get the bill on President Donald Trump’s desk as quickly as possible.

In the upper chamber, Senators will resume consideration of pending presidential nominations. The Senate will vote on James Danley to be a Member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).