mark reinstein
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., announced Thursday afternoon that the Senate’s planned recess next week is now canceled, as lawmakers work toward passing legislation to deal with the impact of the coronavirus outbreak, according to Fox News.
This comes as Republicans are opposing House Democrats’ proposed legislation, which McConnell had described as an “ideological wish list.” His opposition, along with that of House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., has left the status of the bill in limbo.
“Notwithstanding the scheduled state work period, the Senate will be in session next week,” McConnell tweeted. “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.”
“We’ll take a look at anything they send us,” McConnell said.
The Democrats’ bill, unveiled late Wednesday, provides for paid sick leave, free coronavirus testing and funding for states to address economic hardships imposed by the coronavirus. McCarthy had opposed it due to the lack of exemptions or sunsets for the paid sick leave, as well as the time it would take to set up the sick leave program.
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she and her fellow Democrats are open to making changes to their bill and are still discussing the issues with the Trump administration.