Lawmakers, many in masks, debate mammoth new aid package
By ANDREW TAYLOR and ALAN FRAM Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) —  A nearly $500 billion measure helping businesses and hospitals cope with the coronavirus’ devastation is edging toward House passage. Many lawmakers were wearing face masks and scarfs as they met to consider the measure on Thursday. The package is headed toward certain, overwhelming approval later in the day. That would send the measure to President Donald Trump for his signature. The Senate approved the legislation Tuesday. But partisan divides remain over the legislation. Republicans complained Democrats had delayed the original version of bill, which included only money for small businesses. Democrats ended up winning more money for small businesses and hospitals.