Deadline looms to pass relief bill before Election Day

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Lawmakers may be getting closer to a deal to get more help to Americans impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The senate is set to vote on a bill extending the paycheck protection program to help small businesses.

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One proposal involves reauthorizing another round of small business loans that will be voted on Tuesday. But, that plan is likely to be blocked by Democrats who have opposed stand-alone relief bills.

This is happening as tonight’s deadline is approaching for both sides to reach a relief deal before the November 3rd election.

Democrats say Republicans proposals have fallen far short of what’s needed to help millions of Americans.

Republicans have accused Democrats of obstructing efforts for congress to pass more aid.

“All or nothing. That’s been their position. Either Democrats get every unrelated policy they want, or American families got nothing. So for months they blocked bi-partisan aid at every single turn," said Sen Mitch McConnell, Majority Leader.

On Wednesday, the senate is set to vote on what’s known as a skinny relief proposal.

“We’ve got brains and we can think. That’s the problem here, nobody wants to give any credit for being willing to negotiate. So Nancy Pelosi is not standing out there by herself, I’m right there behind her," said Rep. James Clyburn, Majority Whip.

That proposal will likely get blocked by Democrats, as it was last month.

Time running out for stimulus proposal to pass before Election Day

Cox Media Group