After months of stagnation in Washington, Congress is poised to act on a $900 billion pandemic aid package, finally delivering long-sought cash to businesses and individuals and resources to vaccinate a nation facing an alarming surge. of COVID-19 cases and deaths.
Following the announcement, Schumer and Pelosi, a California Democrat, announced additional details, including $25 billion in rental assistance, $15billion for live-concert venues and other live venues, $82 billion for local schools, colleges, and universities, and $10 billion. for child care.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer verified the amount included compensation for “SPA grants for theater operators and small-venue operators through the Save Our Stages Act,” adding: “These venues are so important to my state and so many other states across the country. They are the lifeblood of our communities. They were the first to close and will be the last to open. This bill gives them a fighting chance.”
While Covid-19 restrictions have now witnessed the permanent closure of several entertainment venues, National Independent Venues Association President Dayna Frank described the package as a “crucial lifeline.” “We’re also incredibly grateful that this bill provides Pandemic Unemployment Assistance, which will help the millions of people who lost their jobs through no fault of their own during this economic crisis,” she said. “We urge swift passage of this legislation, which will assist those in the greatest need and ensure the music lives on for generations to come.”