Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced that the Senate will be canceling their planned recess as lawmakers continue to debate a coronavirus relief package. The decision was made after it appeared likely that the Senate was going to reject a bill passed by the House of Representatives.
"Notwithstanding the scheduled state work period, the Senate will be in session next week. I am glad talks are ongoing between the Administration and Speaker Pelosi. I hope Congress can pass bipartisan legislation to continue combating the coronavirus and keep our economy strong," McConnell tweeted.
As the coronavirus outbreak continues to spread, lawmakers have been under intense pressure to work out a deal as quickly as possible. With the break looming and some senators planning to leave Washington, D.C. on Thursday (March 12), lawmakers urged McConnell to cancel the upcoming break.
"Due to the need to work on additional efforts to confront the COVID-19 pandemic, the Senate should cancel its recess and remain in session next week," Maine Senator Susan Collins wrote on Twitter.
North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis said that "Congress needs to cancel its recess and stay in session so we can work together in a bipartisan fashion to address the coronavirus pandemic."
Lawmakers are divided over the best way to provide economic relief to those who are impacted by COVID-19. The Democrat-controlled House passed a resolution that would provide paid sick leave along with other proposals to help low-income individuals.
Republicans blasted the bill, with Texas Senator John Cornyn accusing the Democrats of trying to "score political points" and using the global pandemic to pressure lawmakers into voting for policies they disagree with.
"I don't think we ought to be stampeded into doing something that we wouldn't otherwise think is a good idea. We need to respond in an appropriate way and in a targeted way, not just throw money at the problem," Cornyn said.
To keep up to date on the latest news about the coronavirus and to understand what you need to stay safe and healthy, check out the Coronavirus: Fact vs Fiction podcast from CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta.
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