Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer warned his Democratic caucus in a letter Monday about GOP priorities in the upcoming coronavirus legislation, saying Republicans are too focused on special interests.
“Democrats will need to fight hard for the many important and necessary provisions that the Senate GOP are leaving out,” the New York Democrat said.
As the Senate returns from a state-work period, they’re expected to broker a deal on another coronavirus relief package ahead of their August recess.
Republicans and the president have spoken about ensuring businesses have immunity from lawsuits related to COVID-19.
Mr. Schumer, though, says that would give legal immunity to corporations — and companies such as nursing homes or other businesses that are negligent and fail to take steps to protect against the spread of the virus.
“Workers and families, not special interests, should be our main focus,” he said in his letter.
Democrats are pushing for extended unemployment funds. They also said there needs to be rental assistance and better pay for frontline workers combating the virus.
Meanwhile, President Trump said in an interview with Fox News Sunday that he must see the immunity protections for businesses, as well as a payroll tax cut in the next stimulus package.
“I would consider not signing it if we don’t have a payroll tax cut,” the president said.
• Alex Swoyer can be reached at aswoyer@washingtontimes.com.
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