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Collins Says She Is Hopeful A Deal Can Be Reached On Pandemic Relief Funding

Wikimedia File
Senate Republicans have tried twice to get support for an additional $250 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program that has run out of money.

Talks between Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi over the next round of funding to help mitigate the coronavirus pandemic continue this weekend. Republican U.S. Senator Susan Collins is cautiously optimistic a deal can be reached.

Senate Republicans have tried twice to get support for an additional $250 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program that has run out of money. It provides forgivable loans for small businesses and the self-employed. Senator Collins says it’s time to compromise.

“There are partisan politics all the time but surely this is the time when that kind of bickering can be put aside for the good of the country.”

Democrats are arguing for more money to help the states, local governments and hospitals, as well as an increase in food assistance as part of the package that needs unanimous support in both the Democratic-controlled House and Republican-controlled Senate to pass.

Journalist Mal Leary spearheads Maine Public's news coverage of politics and government and is based at the State House.