Lawmakers express optimism about fourth coronavirus relief package

House Republicans expressed optimism Saturday that negotiators are honing in on a deal for a fourth coronavirus relief package. Multiple sources with knowledge of the talks told The Hill that a number of lawmakers expect to return to Washington as early next week in anticipation of movement on the legislation.

“They are close to a deal,” one GOP lawmaker said, adding that a vote as soon as Tuesday was not out of the realm of possibility.

While negotiators have struggled to strike a deal, one source familiar with the talks said they anticipate the agreement to include additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), funding for rural hospitals and additional testing. However, the source noted it all remains in flux.  Continue reading.