Senators push for paycheck guarantee in next coronavirus response bill

A group of senators is pushing to include a paycheck guarantee for laid off or furloughed workers in the next coronavirus relief package.

Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA), Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Sen. Doug Jones (D-AL) have introduced the Paycheck Security Act, which they say will ensure workers maintain their health insurance and keep getting paid until the pandemic subsides.

Under the senators’ proposal, businesses that see at least a 20% month-over-month drop in revenues could receive grants to help cover workers’ payroll and benefits for at least six months. The grants would cover benefits and up to $90,000 in wages for each furloughed or laid off employee. The grants also include up to 20% of revenue to pay rent, utilities insurance policies and maintenance.