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Stimulus checks begin to roll out, Lawmakers remain at odds

Posted at 10:41 PM, Jan 01, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-01 23:41:02-05

Some people are starting to see a little boost to their bank account days after the $900 billion COVID Relief package was signed into law.

Curt Esser was one of the Wisconsin residents who noticed a $600 stimulus payment was on its way. With the New Year's holiday, the money should be available by Monday.

For some, the money will help toward bills or replenish depleted savings accounts and emergency funds.

Curt, who is self-employed, said he plans to put his money toward supporting local businesses.

"That’ll help them keep their payroll going, pay their bills, pay their taxes, pay their property taxes, and everything. It’s very sad, very sad, and frustrating when we see these local businesses close up," said Curt.

As many more continue to wait for their check lawmakers remain at odds.

Senate Republicans blocked a last-ditch democratic effort on Friday to raise stimulus checks to $2,000.

"A huge chunk would be socialism for rich people, money going to households well into six figures who did not lose any jobs or income last year. The House Democrat bill is just simply not the right approach," said Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

"Where was your concern about socialism for the rich when amazon, owned by the richest guy in the world, got a $129 million tax rebate? I didn't hear much about socialism for the rich in that debate," countered Democratic Senator Bernie Sanders.

The current congressional session ends on Sunday.

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