Newhouse Says Next Massive Economic Bill Will Come From Senate

Thursday morning saw an unsuccessful attempt by Senate Republicans to pass a $250 billion economic bill that would be an extension of some of the small business programs recently created in the CARES Act.

4th District Representative Dan Newhouse said the worry in Congress is that the $2.2 trillion CARES Act did not supply enough money.

"We've seen a tremendous amount of interest on the part of small businesses and those funds are running out." Newhouse explained, "That effort wasn't successful this morning, but they are continuing to negotiate what that package would look like."

Members of the House and Senate are continuing to work together to eventually speed the senate bill along.

"Certainly, the one focus is making sure there are enough funds in these programs that have been set up to help workers and businesses remain in a position so they will be able to bounce back when we get done with the 'stay at home' orders that are in place in so many states," Newhouse added.

The hope is that those in the Senate will be able to pass the package by unanimous consent so it would be unnecessary for all the members of Congress to return to Washingotn D.C. Waiting for members of Congress to return to the capitol would take time and could delay the bill's passage.

Republicans are looking for $250 billion for small businesses, while Democrats want a similar amount to bolster hospitals and local governments.

Senators will try again Monday.