The Senate passed a nearly two trillion dollar coronavirus relief bill that’s expected to quickly pass the House then get President Trump’s signature.
And Sens. Tom Carper and Chris Coons see many positives in it - including some for the First State.
"We haven't got all the details for the cities and counties but the state of Delaware will get at least 1.5 billion dollars," said Coons.
Coons adds Delawarens also stand to see money directly from the bill that seeks to prop up the economy during the coronavirus pandemic.
Every adult making less than $75,000 will get $1,200 direct payment, while couples filing jointly making less than $150,000 will make $2,400 plus $500 per child.
While Coons believes that’s not enough, he is happy the plan compensates those filing for unemployment fairly.
"One of the biggest pieces of this bill is a dramatic expansion of Unemployment Insurance on top of the basic benefit provided in most states," said Coons. "In Delaware, it's $400 a week for the next four months, [and] there's going to be $600 on top of that from the federal government, and that's to provide some transitional support."
Carper says the bill also helps those who need it as well as nonprofits.
"Additional help for food nutrition through a program called SNAP which used to be called food stamps for people when they sign up they will be able to get help for themselves and their family provided a backstop in aid for nonprofits a number of nonprofits include food banks," said Carper.
Coons explains how small businesses will benefit.
"The Small Business Administration part of this, those loans are up to $10 million depending on what your average monthly payroll was so there's literally going to be billions of dollars available," said Coons. "What I'm going to be working hard on here in the next few days is making sure that the flood of small businesses and companies who are seeking access to loans or grants that they're able to connect and get through."
Coons adds he’ll work with the Delaware Small Business Administration office to help small businesses access these funds.
The package includes $377 billion in aid to small businesses so they can retain employees and pay for other expenses including rent, mortgage and utilities.
The House is expected to vote on the bill Friday and send it to President Trump for his signature.
