UPDATED: Trump Signs $900B Stimulus Package, Avoids Government Shutdown

UPDATED: Trump Signs $900B Stimulus Package, Avoids Government Shutdown

President Donald Trump signed the $900 billion pandemic-aid bill on Sunday night, according to multiple reports. This ends a standoff with Congress and paves the way for millions of Americans to get economic relief as the coronavirus pandemic surges across the country.

Trump objected to the legislation last week, after it had already passed Congress with overwhelming bipartisan support, saying that lawmakers needed to increase the size of direct payments to Americans to $2,000, up from $600 per adult and per child for individuals with adjusted gross incomes under $75,000.

Trump first tweeted, "Good news on Covid Relief Bill. Information to follow!"

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Later, Trump said in a statement late Sunday, “I will sign the omnibus and Covid package with a strong message that makes clear to Congress that wasteful items need to be removed.” 

“I applaud President Trump’s decision to get hundreds of billions of dollars of crucial COVID-19 relief out the door and into the hands of American families as quickly as possible,” U.S. Seante Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

He signed the legislation under pressure from lawmakers of both parties. It is unclear when Americans will begin to receive the $600 payments.

On Tuesday night, GoLocal reported:

President Donald Trump indicated in a video Tuesday evening that he won't sign the $900 billion coronavirus relief bill and a $1.4 trillion government funding measure passed by Congress as it stands.

Trump said the bill has little to do with the coronavirus and includes hundreds of millions in foreign aid.

Trump said Congress needed to increase the $600 payment.

The Constitution grants the president 10 days to review a measure passed by the Congress. If the president has not signed the bill after 10 days, it becomes law without his signature. However, if Congress adjourns during the 10-day period, the bill does not become law. 

Trump's threat is further complicates as and could delay aid for millions of Americans. An in action by Trump also risks a government shutdown on Dec. 28.

The Washington Post is reporting, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), however, quickly responded to Trump by saying congressional Democrats would enthusiastically return to the Capitol on Thursday and seek to advance a bill that adds the $2,000 stimulus checks.

“Republicans repeatedly refused to say what amount the President wanted for direct checks,” she posted on Twitter Tuesday night after Trump’s message. “At last, the President has agreed to $2,000 — Democrats are ready to bring this to the Floor this week by unanimous consent. Let’s do it!”

This story was first published 12/27/20 8:18 PM