Stimulus Stalemate in Washington

The Senate is considering a new fiscal stimulus proposal after a long impasse. The proposed 'Skinny Bill' by Senator McConnell includes $258 billion for small employers, a $300 weekly unemployment benefit enhancement, and a $10 billion grant to the US Postal Service. However, it faces criticism for being insufficient compared to the $3 trillion Heroes Act passed by the House. The economic implications of further stimulus are debated, with concerns about the federal deficit, though the debt-to-GDP ratio remains stable.

What is the main focus of the 'skinny COVID bill' proposed by Senator McConnell?

• Expanding healthcare coverage

• Reducing the federal deficit

• Increasing taxes on large corporations

• Providing financial support to small employers and enhancing unemployment benefits

How does the 'skinny bill' compare to the Heroes Act in terms of financial support?

• It offers more financial support than the Heroes Act

• It is similar in size and scope to the Heroes Act

• It focuses solely on healthcare funding

• It provides less financial support than the Heroes Act

What was included in the Heroes Act that is not in the 'skinny bill'?

• A reduction in corporate taxes

• A $300 enhancement to weekly unemployment benefits

• An extension of $600 unemployment payments each week

• A $10 billion grant to the US Postal Service

What is the current forecast for the federal deficit this year?

• $4 trillion

• $3 trillion

• $2 trillion

• $1 trillion

What does the stable debt-to-GDP ratio suggest about the economic situation?

• The economy is shrinking

• The economic situation is relatively stable

• The economy is in a crisis

• The economy is rapidly growing